Andy Montoya
Cheese is a tasty treat, but it can be tricky to include in a kidney-friendly diet due to its phosphorus, potassium, and sodium content. However, with the right choices and portion control, people with CKD can still enjoy cheese. For instance, some cheeses like Brie, cream cheese, mascarpone, and Daiya cheese are lower in phosphorus and suitable for a kidney-friendly diet. It is important to note that the diet for renal disease is highly individualized, and people with CKD should consult their doctors and dietitians for specific recommendations based on their lab results and medical history.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended daily sodium intake for CKD | 2300 mg |
| Phosphorus content | High |
| Potassium content | Low |
| Sodium content | High |
| Best cheese substitutes | Daiya cheese, Cream cheese, Brie, Marscipone |
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What You'll Learn
Low-phosphorus cheeses
While cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, vitamin B12, and vitamin A, it also contains phosphorus, potassium, and sodium, which can be harmful to people with CKD. Therefore, it is recommended that people with CKD limit their cheese intake. However, some cheeses are lower in phosphorus and can be enjoyed in moderation by people with CKD.
People with CKD should avoid cheeses with added phosphorus, which can be identified by looking for "phos" in the list of ingredients. Processed cheese sauces, canned spray cheese, pasteurized cheese products, and processed American cheese often contain added phosphorus. In addition, people with kidney transplants should avoid all unpasteurized dairy products and choose low-sodium cheese options.
Some examples of lower-phosphorus cheeses include Brie, cream cheese, and mascarpone. These cheeses are "least likely to mess with kidneys," according to one source. However, it's important to note that the amount of phosphorus in cheese can vary by brand and is subject to change. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check the ingredients and consult with a dietitian or doctor to determine which cheeses are safe for your individual needs.
When incorporating cheese into a kidney-friendly diet, portion size and frequency are key. While cheese can be a tasty treat or addition to a meal, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid negative health impacts. It's also important to be mindful of other sources of phosphorus, potassium, and sodium in the diet to ensure overall intake remains within healthy limits.
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Low-sodium cheeses
While cheese is a favourite food for many, people with CKD are often told to limit their cheese intake due to its phosphorus, potassium, and sodium content. However, there are some low-sodium cheeses that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a kidney-friendly diet. According to the FDA, cheeses with less than 140mg of sodium per serving are considered low in sodium. Here are some options for low-sodium cheeses:
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is a popular choice for those seeking a lower-sodium option, as it naturally contains less sodium than many other varieties. One ounce of Swiss cheese contains 53mg of sodium, compared to 185mg in the same amount of cheddar. Swiss cheese also provides the added benefit of eight grams of protein per ounce, promoting tissue health.
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, with its tangy and slightly sweet flavour, typically contains 118mg of sodium per ounce. It is a versatile cheese, commonly used in crostini, baked goods, salads, dips, and sandwiches. Goat cheese also provides 13% of the daily vitamin A requirement, with 115 micrograms in a one-ounce serving.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese, a creamy and mild-flavoured variety, is another low-sodium option. A generous portion typically contains around 123mg of sodium, while smaller portions will have a lower sodium content. Ricotta is commonly used in Italian dishes and pairs well with fruits and honey as a tasty snack or light meal. It is also a good source of calcium, providing 26% of the Daily Value (DV) for adults in just half a cup.
Fresh Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella, especially the unsalted versions, is a delicious and lower-sodium option for salads and sandwiches. One ounce of fresh mozzarella contains 138mg of sodium, and this can be further reduced by choosing a low-sodium or unsalted variety. Part-skim mozzarella also lowers the dietary cholesterol and saturated fat content.
It is important to remember that while these cheeses are lower in sodium, they may still contain other nutrients that need to be monitored, such as phosphorus and potassium. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalised dietary recommendations.
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Portion sizes
The recommended serving size of cheese for those with CKD is generally one ounce, equivalent to about one slice or a small handful of shredded cheese. However, it's important to remember that this may vary depending on the type of cheese and individual dietary needs. For example, softer cheeses like cream cheese, goat cheese, and ricotta are naturally lower in phosphorus, while processed cheeses and hard cheeses tend to be higher in phosphorus.
When choosing a cheese for your CKD meal plan, always check the nutrition facts and opt for lower-sodium options. Swiss cheese and ricotta are good choices in this regard. Additionally, fermented cheeses like Swiss or cheddar can offer benefits, but their serving sizes should be monitored to avoid high sodium intake. If lactose intolerance is a concern, harder cheeses are preferable as they contain less lactose.
It is also important to note that cheese can be included in a kidney-friendly diet if you limit the portion size and choose lower-sodium foods for the rest of the day or meal. For example, feta cheese and parmesan cheese are typically high in sodium, but they can be included in smaller portions while opting for lower-sodium foods elsewhere in your meal.
Lastly, it is recommended to consult with a registered dietitian to develop a meal plan tailored to your specific nutritional needs and preferences. They can guide you in determining appropriate portion sizes, reading food labels, and making healthy choices when dining out. Managing CKD is not just about what you eat but also about how much, so accuracy in portion sizes is crucial.
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Dialysis patients
For dialysis patients with CKD, it is important to be cautious about portion size and how often you eat cheese. While cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, vitamin B12, and vitamin A, it can also be high in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium.
The amount and type of cheese you can have will depend on your stage of kidney disease and the type of dialysis you are receiving. It is recommended to limit phosphorus intake if you are receiving peritoneal dialysis. Look for ingredients that contain "phos" on the label, as this indicates additional phosphorus has been added. Processed cheese sauce, canned spray cheese, pasteurized cheese products, and processed American cheese often contain these additives.
Some cheeses that are generally more kidney-friendly include Brie, cream cheese, mascarpone, and Daiya cheese. These cheeses are lower in phosphorus and can be enjoyed in moderation. However, it is important to note that the specific mineral levels in different cheeses can vary dramatically, so it is always a good idea to check the labels and consult with a dietitian.
If you are on a low-potassium plan, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes, as large amounts of cheese can add up. Most cheeses are relatively low in potassium, but the specific amount can vary depending on the brand and type of cheese.
It is recommended to work with a dietitian who specializes in kidney disease to determine the best diet plan for your individual needs. They can help you understand your lab results and create a diet plan that includes the cheeses you enjoy while maintaining your health.
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Recommended daily intake
The recommended daily intake of cheese for people with CKD varies depending on the individual's specific needs and the stage of their kidney disease. It is always best to consult a medical professional for personalised advice.
In general, people with CKD should be mindful of their intake of phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and protein. Cheese is typically high in these nutrients, so it is important for people with CKD to monitor their cheese consumption and choose kidney-friendly options. The usual serving size for cheese is 30 grams or 1 ounce.
For phosphorus, a low-phosphate diet typically ranges from 800 to 1000 mg. Phosphorus intake should be determined based on laboratory results, and people with kidney disease should work with a renal dietitian to determine their specific needs. Phosphorus food additives, often found in processed cheeses, should be avoided.
Regarding sodium intake, people with CKD are typically advised to limit their daily sodium intake to around 2000 mg to 2300 mg. It is important to note that "low-sodium" cheeses may still contain artificial ingredients to enhance flavour, so checking ingredient lists is crucial.
For potassium, maintaining a daily intake between 1500 and 2700 mg is recommended to support kidney health. While most cheeses are relatively low in potassium, large portions can contribute significantly to the daily intake, so moderation is essential.
Protein intake recommendations vary depending on the stage of CKD. For early-stage CKD (stages 1 and 2), the protein limit is typically 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For later stages (3 to 5), protein intake should be limited to 0.55-0.60 grams per kilogram of body weight. It is important to consult a nephrologist for personalised protein intake advice.
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Frequently asked questions
CKD stands for chronic kidney disease.
While cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, vitamin B12, and vitamin A, it often contains phosphorus, potassium, or sodium, which people with CKD are told to avoid or limit. However, some cheeses are more kidney-friendly, such as Brie, cream cheese, mascarpone, Daiya, and Swiss cheese.
The amount and type of cheese you can eat will depend on your stage of kidney disease and the type of dialysis you receive. It is best to consult a doctor or dietitian for a diet plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
