Managing Sodium with CKD: A Practical Guide
For Adults Living with Chronic Kidney Disease
Too much sodium (salt) in the diet can make the kidneys work harder and can contribute to swelling, high blood pressure, and fluid buildup. Limiting sodium helps protect your kidneys and supports heart health.
This guide explains how sodium affects your body and what you can do to reduce intake at home and when eating out.
Why Reducing Sodium Matters
- Sodium draws fluid into your bloodstream and tissues, which can increase blood pressure.
- In CKD, fluid balance may already be disrupted, making lower sodium intake even more important.
- High sodium can worsen swelling in your hands, feet, and belly.
Your healthcare provider can tell you the best sodium target for your condition — most adults with CKD are encouraged to choose lower-sodium foods whenever possible.
How Much Sodium Should You Aim For?
Healthcare professionals typically recommend choosing foods with lower sodium levels. Your dietitian or doctor will give you a personalized goal based on your stage of CKD and your health profile.
Tips to Lower Sodium at Home
Cook More Meals from Scratch
Prepared and processed foods often contain a lot of sodium. Cooking from scratch lets you control how much salt goes into your food.
Better practices:
- Use fresh or frozen vegetables without added salt.
- Choose plain meats and poultry; trim visible fat.
- Rinse canned beans and vegetables to remove extra sodium.
Season with Flavor, Not Salt
Instead of table salt, try:
- Fresh or powdered herbs (basil, oregano, parsley)
- Spices (cumin, paprika, turmeric)
- Lemon or lime juice
- Garlic and onion powder
- Vinegars (balsamic, apple cider, red wine)
Tip: When trying a new herb or spice, use a small amount at first and adjust to taste.
Be Smart with Labels
Reading food labels can help you avoid hidden sodium.
When shopping:
- Compare “sodium per serving” values
- Choose “low-sodium,” “no salt added,” or “reduced sodium” versions
- Beware of terms like “natural flavoring” or “seasoned” — these sometimes hide sodium
Common Foods High in Sodium
You may need to avoid or limit:
- Canned soups and broths
- Processed meats (bacon, deli meats, hot dogs)
- Frozen meals and boxed dinners
- Snack foods (chips, salted crackers)
- Sauces, condiments, and dressings (soy sauce, teriyaki, BBQ sauce)
- Cheese and other high-sodium dairy products
Eating Out? Choose Lower-Sodium Options
Restaurants often use a lot of salt for flavor, so be proactive:
- Ask for no added salt, or sauces on the side
- Choose grilled or baked meats rather than fried
- Avoid gravies, creamy sauces, and salted toppings
- Request extra vegetables in place of salty sides (fries, chips)
- Drink water instead of soda or salty broths
Helpful Food Swaps
|
Swap This |
For This |
|
Canned soup |
Homemade vegetable soup (no-salt added) |
|
Salted crackers |
Unsalted crackers or whole-grain options |
|
Soy sauce |
Low-sodium soy sauce or vinegar + herbs |
|
Deli meats |
Fresh grilled chicken or turkey breast |
|
Frozen dinners |
Stir-fried veggies + plain rice + lean protein |
Practical Daily Strategies
✔ Add no salt while cooking
✔ Keep the salt shaker off the table
✔ Rinse canned foods before using
✔ Drink water regularly (unless your provider advises fluid restriction)
✔ Experiment with salt-free seasoning blends
Work With Your Team
Your healthcare team can:
- Help you set a sodium goal
- Provide meal plans tailored to your labs and lifestyle
- Recommend lower-sodium food brands
- Help you learn label reading
- Adjust your plan as your kidney health changes
Medical Disclaimer
This guide is intended for general education only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Individual sodium recommendations may vary based on your kidney function, lab results, medications, blood pressure goals, fluid restrictions, and other health conditions. Always follow the specific guidance 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.