Foods High in BOTH Potassium and Phosphorus
(Often need to be limited in Chronic Kidney Disease)
Some foods contain significant amounts of both potassium and phosphorus, which can be especially challenging for people with kidney disease. These foods may need to be limited or carefully portioned depending on lab values, stage of kidney disease, and guidance from a healthcare provider.
Note: Foods listed below typically contain ~200 mg or more of phosphorus AND ~250 mg or more of potassium per serving. (Serving sizes and individual potassium and phosphorus needs/tolerance vary —always follow provider or dietitian guidance.)
Grains & Starches
These grain-based foods can contribute meaningful amounts of potassium and phosphorus, especially in standard serving sizes:
- Microwave popcorn (1 bag)
- Oat bran muffin (1 medium)
- Whole wheat pasta (1 cup cooked)
- Raisin bran–type cereals (1 cup)
Milk & Dairy Products
Dairy foods are naturally high in phosphorus and often contain potassium:
- Condensed milk (½ cup)
- Evaporated milk, canned (½ cup)
- Nonfat evaporated milk (½ cup)
- Yogurt (plain or Greek-style, low fat) – approximately 7 oz container
Protein Foods
Certain animal and plant proteins can be high in both minerals:
- Beef (top round), cooked – 3 oz
- Fried chicken breast with skin – 1 breast (~3 oz meat)
- Crab (Alaskan) – 1 leg
- Duck – 3 oz
- Fried fish – 4 oz
- Haddock – 1 fillet
- Beef liver – 3 oz
- Pollock – 3 oz
- Pork tenderloin – 3 oz
- Dry roasted soybeans – ½ cup
- Fresh, cooked salmon – 3 oz
- Sardines (with bones) – 1 small can
- Canned white tuna in oil – 3 oz
- Turkey – 3 oz
Mixed Dishes, Beverages & Processed Foods
These foods often combine multiple high-potassium and high-phosphorus ingredients:
- Cheeseburger (plain)
- Chicken pot pie (single-serving size)
- Chili with beans (1 cup)
- Hot cocoa (1 cup prepared)
Helpful Guidance for Patients
- Portion size matters. Smaller amounts may be allowed depending on lab results.
- Phosphorus additives (ingredients with “phos-” in the name) are absorbed more easily than natural phosphorus.
- Rinsing canned foods may help lower potassium but does not remove phosphorus.
- Not all patients need to avoid all high potassium+high phosphorus foods — recommendations should be individualized by your healthcare provider.
- A registered dietitian can help identify safer alternatives and appropriate portions.
- *Check labels for standard serving sizes, and potassium levels as products/brands can vary*
Medical Disclaimer
This resource is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical or nutrition advice. Always follow guidance from your healthcare provider or registered dietitian when making dietary changes.
This resource is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical or nutrition advice. Potassium recommendations vary by individual. Always follow guidance from your healthcare provider or registered dietitian.
The information provided in this resource is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual needs vary based on medical history, medications, allergies, and overall health status.
Before making any changes to your diet, trying new foods, modifying portion sizes, or following any nutrition recommendations, please consult your physician, registered dietitian, or other qualified healthcare provider. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, food intolerances, or other chronic health concerns, discussing dietary changes with your healthcare team is especially important.