Grocery shopping with chronic kidney disease can feel overwhelming. Every label seems like a minefield of hidden sodium, phosphate additives, and high-potassium ingredients. This shopping list tells you exactly what to put in your cart -- and what to leave on the shelf.
PRODUCE: What to Buy
Fruits (safe): Apples, blueberries, strawberries, grapes, cherries, pineapple, cranberries, pears.
Vegetables (safe): Cabbage, cauliflower, green beans, bell peppers, cucumber, garlic, onions, lettuce, radishes.
Produce to AVOID: Bananas, oranges, orange juice, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, avocados, spinach, dried fruits of any kind.
PROTEIN: What to Buy
- Chicken breast (skinless)
- Chicken thighs (skinless, in smaller portions)
- Pork tenderloin
- White fish -- cod or tilapia
- Canned tuna (water-packed, low-sodium -- check label for under 140mg sodium per serving)
- Liquid egg whites or carton egg whites
Protein to AVOID: Bacon, sausage, hot dogs, deli meats, canned meats.
GRAINS: What to Buy
- White rice
- White pasta
- White bread (choose lowest sodium per slice -- under 150mg)
- Plain bagels
- White flour tortillas
- Cream of wheat (plain)
- Plain white rice cakes
Grains to AVOID: Whole wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal, bran cereals.
DAIRY AND ALTERNATIVES: What to Buy
- Rice milk (lowest in potassium and phosphorus of all milk alternatives)
- Cream cheese (small amounts)
- Unsalted butter
PANTRY STAPLES: What to Buy
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder (sodium-free)
- Dried herbs: thyme, rosemary, basil, parsley, dill, oregano
- Black pepper
- Lemon juice
- White vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Low-sodium chicken broth (under 140mg per cup)
- Honey
Pantry items to AVOID: Table salt, salt substitutes with potassium chloride, canned soups, dark sodas, bottled sauces and marinades.
How to Read Labels at the Store
- Sodium per serving -- aim for under 300mg per serving
- Ingredient list for phosphate additives -- avoid anything ending in -phosphate
- Serving size -- a food can look low in sodium until you realize the serving size is 2 tablespoons
Get a Complete Shopping List with Your Meal Plan
The 7-Day Kidney-Friendly Meal Plan PDF includes a complete weekly shopping list organized by store section -- everything you need for 28 kidney-safe meals in one efficient grocery trip. Instant download for $7.97.