Learn How To Read A Nutrition Label To Protect Your Kidney Health!

Why Reading a Nutrition Label Matters

Nutrition labels provide key information about what you’re putting into your body. For people on dialysis, understanding the nutrition label can help you avoid hidden ingredients that may harm your kidneys and make informed food choices every day.

What to Look for on a Nutrition Label

Here’s a breakdown of what to check first:

1. Serving Size

Always check the serving size and servings per container. Nutrient amounts on the label are based on one serving.

2. Calories

Keep track of calories to maintain a healthy weight and energy level.

3. Sodium

• Aim for less than 600 mg of sodium per meal.

• Watch out for terms like “low sodium,” “reduced sodium,” or “sodium-free.”

4. Potassium

• Not always listed, but some brands do.

• Limit high-potassium foods if your care team recommends it.

5. Phosphorus

• Look for phosphorus additives in the ingredients list (common ones end in “-phos” like calcium phosphate or sodium phosphate).

• Choose foods with little to no phosphorus additives.

6. Protein

• Your dietitian will guide your protein needs based on your dialysis type and lab results.

7. Added Sugars

• Watch out for added sugars, especially in snacks and drinks.

Ingredient List Tips

Even if a nutrition label looks good, the ingredient list may hide red flags. Avoid or limit:

• Phosphorus additives (look for “phos”)

• High-sodium preservatives

• Artificial sweeteners if not recommended

Quick Label Reading Tips

✅ Choose items with short ingredient lists.

✅ Pick foods with low sodium (5% DV or less).

❌ Avoid foods with high phosphorus or potassium unless recommended.

✅ Look for “renal-friendly” or “low sodium” labels when available.