Managing Potassium: A Food Guide for CKD
A Practical Food Guide for People Managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Many people think bananas are the main source of potassium — but potassium is found in many everyday foods, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and beverages. For people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), keeping potassium within a safe range is important for heart and muscle health.
This guide helps you understand where potassium hides, how to make safer food choices, and how to enjoy variety without overdoing it.
Why Potassium Needs Attention in CKD
Potassium plays a key role in:
- Regulating heartbeat
- Supporting muscle movement
- Helping nerves communicate
When kidneys are not working well, potassium can build up in the blood. High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) may cause serious heart rhythm problems and require medical attention.
Your healthcare provider will guide you on how much potassium is right for you, based on your lab results and kidney function.
🍎 Potassium Is Found in More Than Fruit
While fruits are well-known sources of potassium, many other foods contain significant amounts.
Potassium can be found in:
- Vegetables
- Dairy products
- Beans and lentils
- Nuts and seeds
- Whole grains
- Juices and smoothies
Understanding which foods are lower, moderate, or higher in potassium can help you plan meals more safely.
✅ Lower-Potassium Food Choices
(Generally safer options when potassium needs to be limited)
Fruits
- Applesauce
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Grapes
- Pears (canned)
- Pineapple
Vegetables
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Cucumbers
- Green beans
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Pepper (green)
- Peas (canned)
Grains & Snacks
- White bread
- White rice
- Plain pasta
- Unsalted crackers
- Oatmeal
- Frozen waffles
- Flour and corn tortillas
⚖️ Moderate-Potassium Foods
(May be included in smaller portions if approved by your care team)
Fruits
- Oranges
- Cherries
- Cantaloupe
- Watermelon
Vegetables
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Corn
- Celery (raw)
- Summer squash (cooked)
Other
- Almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts
- Milk
Portion size matters — your dietitian can help you determine how much fits into your plan.
❌ Higher-Potassium Foods
(May need to be limited or avoided if potassium levels are high)
- Baked or mashed potatoes
- Spinach (cooked)
- Tomato products (sauce, juice, paste)
- Dried fruits (raisins, prunes, dates)
- Prune juice
- Pistachios
- Yogurt (plain, low fat)
- Pumpkin pie
- Potato chips (plain, BBQ, low fat)
- Trail mix
- Soup (chicken vegetable, clam chowder, minestrone, tomato)
For a more comprehensive list, check out: https://kitchen.kidneyfund.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Beyond-Bananas-Potassium-Guide.pdf
🧑🍳 Tips to Reduce Potassium in Foods
Rinse Canned Foods
Rinse canned vegetables and beans under running water to reduce potassium content.
Use Potassium-Lowering Prep Methods
For certain vegetables:
- Peel and cut into small pieces
- Soak in warm water for several hours
- Drain and cook in fresh water
This process may help lower potassium levels in foods like potatoes.
Choose Fresh or Frozen
Plain frozen vegetables (without sauces) often contain less potassium than canned varieties.
🥤 Watch Potassium in Drinks
Some beverages can significantly increase potassium intake:
- Fruit juices
- Smoothies
- Sports drinks
Choose water or approved beverages unless your care team advises otherwise.
📝 Eating Out with Potassium in Mind
- Ask about ingredients and preparation methods
- Choose lower-potassium sides when possible
- Avoid vegetable juices or tomato-based sauces
- Keep portion sizes modest
📋 Potassium-Smart Daily Checklist
✔ Know your potassium goal
✔ Choose lower-potassium fruits and vegetables
✔ Watch portions of moderate-potassium foods
✔ Rinse canned items before eating
✔ Limit high-potassium beverages
✔ Review lab results regularly
✔ Ask your dietitian for personalized guidance
⚠️ Symptoms to Report Right Away
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Muscle weakness
- Tingling or numbness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest discomfort
- Unusual fatigue
- Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.
Medical Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Potassium needs vary based on kidney function, medications, lab results, and other health conditions. Always follow the dietary recommendations provided by 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.