Randy Chandler
Many people enjoy eating cheese, but those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are often told to limit their intake due to its high phosphorus, potassium, and sodium content. However, with thoughtful choices, people with CKD can still include cheese in their diets. Cheddar cheese, for example, is a hard cheese that is higher in salt than soft and semi-soft cheeses, so it should be consumed in moderation. Choosing strongly flavored cheeses like extra mature cheddar can provide more flavor while using less cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Phosphorus content | Cheddar cheese does not typically contain phosphorus additives. A one-ounce serving of real cheddar cheese contains 129mg of phosphorus. |
| Sodium content | Cheddar cheese is typically high in sodium, which is not good for a kidney-friendly diet. |
| Portion size | Cheddar cheese can be included in a kidney-friendly diet if you limit the portion size and choose some lower-sodium foods in other parts of the meal or day. |
| Flavour | Choosing stronger-flavoured cheeses, such as extra mature cheddar, can be a good option to get extra flavour using a smaller amount. |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese is high in salt and phosphate
Cheddar cheese is a popular variety of cheese that is often enjoyed in sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. While it is a tasty and versatile ingredient, those with kidney health concerns may wonder if it is a suitable choice for their diet.
Cheddar cheese is considered a hard cheese, and like other varieties in this category, it tends to be high in both salt (sodium) and phosphate (phosphorus). These substances can be of concern for individuals with kidney issues, as the kidneys play a crucial role in regulating salt and mineral balance in the body. High salt intake is linked to elevated blood pressure, which can further strain the kidneys, while excess phosphate consumption can interfere with the body's ability to bind and expel waste products effectively.
For individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or those on dialysis, managing salt and phosphate intake is essential for maintaining kidney health and overall well-being. Excessive consumption of salt and phosphate can lead to a build-up of these substances in the body, placing additional stress on the kidneys and potentially exacerbating existing kidney problems. Therefore, it is generally recommended that those with kidney health concerns limit their intake of high-salt and high-phosphate foods, including cheddar cheese.
However, this does not necessarily mean that individuals with kidney health issues need to completely abstain from cheddar cheese. Moderation and portion control are key. Limiting consumption to small portions occasionally can help manage salt and phosphate intake while still allowing individuals to enjoy the taste of cheddar cheese. Additionally, choosing strongly flavoured varieties, such as extra mature cheddar, can provide a more intense flavour experience with a smaller amount of cheese. Grating cheddar cheese over dishes is another way to maximise flavour while minimising the amount of cheese used.
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It can be eaten in moderation
Cheddar cheese is a popular variety of cheese that is often enjoyed in sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. While it can be a tasty addition to meals, those with kidney concerns may wonder if it is a safe choice. The good news is that cheddar cheese can be enjoyed in moderation, even by those with kidney health considerations.
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese, and like other varieties in this category, it tends to be higher in sodium and phosphorus compared to softer cheeses. For individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), managing phosphorus and sodium intake is an important part of their dietary regimen. Excessive phosphorus intake can lead to elevated phosphorus levels in the blood, which can then cause issues with the kidneys. Similarly, high sodium intake can negatively impact kidney health and blood pressure.
However, this does not mean that cheddar cheese needs to be avoided entirely. Moderation and mindful portion sizes are key. A registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance, but a general rule of thumb is to limit intake to around 30 grams or 1 ounce of cheese. Choosing stronger-flavoured varieties, such as extra mature cheddar, can also help as a smaller amount is needed to impart flavour. Grating the cheese can also make it go further without overloading on salt or phosphate.
It is worth noting that not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to kidney-friendliness. Some cheeses, like Emmental, are lower in salt, while others, like cheese spreads and processed cheese slices, tend to be higher in salt and phosphate additives and should be consumed sparingly. It is always a good idea to check labels and compare brands to make informed choices. Additionally, for those who have received kidney transplants, it is important to avoid all unpasteurized dairy products, as these can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses due to immunosuppressive medications.
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Stronger flavours mean smaller portions
Cheese is often limited on a renal diet due to its high phosphorus and sodium content. However, cheese doesn't have to be completely off the menu for people with kidney disease. With some thoughtful choices, it can still be part of a healthy, kidney-friendly diet.
When it comes to cheddar cheese, it is generally recommended to consume it in smaller portions due to its higher salt content compared to soft and semi-soft cheeses. While it is not the highest in salt among the cheeses, it is still recommended to be consumed occasionally and in small portions.
If you're a fan of cheddar cheese but want to make it more kidney-friendly, consider opting for extra mature cheddar instead of mild cheddar. The stronger flavour of extra mature cheddar means that you can use a smaller amount to achieve the same taste impact. This can help reduce the overall salt and phosphate intake while still enjoying the flavourful goodness of cheddar cheese.
In addition to choosing stronger flavours, grating the cheese can also be a clever way to add flavour to your dishes without overdoing it on the salt or phosphate. By grating extra mature cheddar, you can sprinkle a small amount over your meals to enhance the flavour without increasing the portion size significantly.
Remember, the key to incorporating cheese into a kidney-friendly diet is moderation and mindful choices. Consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine the appropriate frequency and portion sizes that align with your individual dietary needs and preferences.
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It's higher in salt than soft and semi-soft cheeses
Cheddar cheese is higher in salt than soft and semi-soft cheeses. While cheese is often limited on the renal diet due to its high phosphorus and sodium content, it doesn't have to be completely off the menu for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). With thoughtful choices, it can be part of a healthy, kidney-friendly diet.
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese, and hard cheeses tend to have higher levels of sodium and phosphorus than soft and semi-soft cheeses. For example, gouda cheese, a hard cheese, has 230 mg of sodium per ounce. While phosphorus does not need to be limited unless laboratory results show high levels, sodium intake for CKD is recommended to be 2300 mg per day. Therefore, it is important to choose low-sodium cheese options.
Cheddar cheese is higher in salt than soft and semi-soft cheeses, so it should be consumed in moderation. A 30-gram serving, about the size of a matchbox, is recommended to help manage salt and phosphate intake. Choosing stronger-flavoured cheeses, such as extra mature cheddar, can provide extra flavour with a smaller amount. Grating cheese can also be a good way to enjoy the taste without consuming too much salt or phosphate.
While cheddar cheese is higher in salt, it is still a better option than cheese spreads, processed cheese slices, cashew cheese, almond cheese, and rice cheese, which tend to be high in salt and phosphate additives. It's important to note that the recommended intake can vary depending on individual dietary habits, and it's always best to consult with a doctor or dietitian for personalised advice.
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It's not the best cheese for kidney health
While cheese is a beloved food for many, it is often limited in renal diets due to its high phosphorus, sodium, and protein content. Although cheese does not need to be completely cut out, it is important to be mindful of frequency and portion sizes when incorporating it into a kidney-friendly diet.
Cheddar cheese, in particular, is typically high in sodium, which is not ideal for kidney health. While it does not usually contain phosphorus additives, a one-ounce serving of real cheddar cheese still contains 129mg of phosphorus. Therefore, those with kidney disease should limit their consumption of cheddar cheese and choose lower-sodium foods to offset the higher sodium content.
For individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), it is recommended to be cautious with cheese products that have "singles" in their name, as these tend to be very high in phosphorus. It is also important to note that the recommended sodium intake for CKD is 2300 mg per day, so choosing low-sodium cheese options is crucial. Additionally, those with kidney transplants should avoid all unpasteurized dairy products for life, as their immunosuppressive medications increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
When it comes to kidney health, it is advisable to opt for cheeses that are naturally low in sodium, such as Swiss cheese. Stronger-flavoured cheeses like extra mature cheddar can be chosen over mild cheddar to enhance flavour while using a smaller amount. Grating cheese over dishes is another way to enjoy the taste without consuming excessive amounts of salt or phosphate. Ultimately, while cheddar cheese can be a part of a kidney-friendly diet in moderation, there are other cheese varieties that are more suitable for optimal kidney health.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar cheese is typically high in sodium, which is not suitable for a kidney-friendly diet. However, it does not contain phosphorus additives and can be included in a kidney-friendly diet if you limit the portion size and choose lower-sodium foods in other parts of the meal or day.
If you are not on a low-phosphate diet, eating 30g of any non-processed cheese twice a week is generally considered acceptable. You may be able to eat more depending on your individual dietary habits. Choosing stronger-flavoured cheeses, such as extra mature cheddar, can be a good option to get extra flavour using a smaller amount.
Swiss cheese is one of the lowest sodium cheeses and is a good option for people with kidney disease. Brie, fontina, marscipone, goat cheese, and feta cheese can also be incorporated into a kidney-friendly diet.
