Eating Out with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Practical Guide
Description
Eating out when you have chronic kidney disease (CKD) can feel overwhelming—especially when you're managing potassium, phosphorus, sodium, or fluid restrictions. But with the right preparation and choices, it’s possible to enjoy dining out while supporting your kidney health.
This guide offers practical tips and meal ideas across different cuisines to help you make informed decisions and feel confident at restaurants.
General Tips for Eating Out with CKD
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or dining out with friends, keep these strategies in mind:
1. Plan Ahead
Look up the restaurant’s menu online beforehand. Choose dishes that align with your dietary needs and consider calling ahead if you have questions about ingredients.
2. Watch Your Portions
Restaurant servings can be much larger than what you need. Share a meal with a friend or take leftovers home for another meal.
3. Ask for Modifications
Don’t be afraid to request changes. Ask for sauces and dressings on the side, and request “no added salt” when ordering cooked dishes.
4. Stay Hydrated—Mindfully
Drink water with your meal, but be careful not to overdo it if you’re on a fluid restriction.
5. Limit Sodium
Avoid highly processed or salty menu items. Opt for grilled over fried, and avoid dishes with salty sauces, broths, or processed meats.
Tips for Potassium and Phosphate Restrictions
If your potassium or phosphate levels are high, you may need to be more cautious when dining out.
Important: Only restrict potassium or phosphate if your healthcare team has told you to. Unnecessary restrictions won’t improve kidney function and could limit your diet unnecessarily.
Be Cautious with High-Potassium Foods:
- Baked or mashed potatoes
- Spinach-based dishes
- Roasted or stir-fried vegetables
- Dishes with avocado or nuts
Better options:
- Rice, pasta, or noodles
- Chicken or fish
- Side salads (small portion), rather than large mixed vegetable plates
Be Cautious with High-Phosphorus Foods:
- Processed meats (bacon, ham, sausages)
- Fish with edible bones (e.g. sardines)
- Cheese-heavy or creamy dishes
- Cola drinks or beverages with phosphate additives
Healthier Choices by Cuisine
American
Best choices:
- Grilled chicken
- Plain burger (no cheese or sauce)
- Side salad or fresh fruit
What to limit:
- Fries, bacon, deli meats
- Cheese and creamy sauces
- BBQ or soy-based marinades
Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Thai)
Best choices:
- Steamed white rice
- Stir-fried vegetables (light oil, no soy sauce)
- Grilled meats or fresh sushi
What to limit:
- Soy sauce, miso soup, fried rice
- Broths with high salt content
- Tempura or deep-fried options
Mexican
Best choices:
- Grilled chicken or beef in soft corn tortillas
- Fajitas with light toppings
- Fresh tomato salsa
What to limit:
- Refried beans, enchiladas, salty chips
- Guacamole (if potassium is restricted)
- Cheese-heavy or creamy dishes
Italian
Best choices:
- Pasta with olive oil and garlic
- Grilled meats or fish
- Side salad with vinaigrette
What to limit:
- Tomato-based sauces (high potassium)
- Cream sauces, cheese-laden dishes
- Processed meats like pepperoni or salami
Fast Food
Best choices:
- Grilled chicken sandwiches
- Plain baked potato
- Salad without cheese or croutons (vinegar-based dressing)
What to limit:
- Fries, pickles, salty condiments
- Cheese, bacon, processed meat toppings
- Cola or other phosphorus-rich drinks
Final Thoughts
Going out to eat shouldn’t feel restrictive or stressful. You can enjoy restaurant meals with CKD—it just takes a little planning and awareness of your specific needs.
If you’re going out for a treat or celebrating a special occasion, enjoy yourself. It’s okay to indulge occasionally—just balance it with more kidney-friendly choices before and after.
Don’t let the renal diet stop you from living your life. Eating out is possible and can be enjoyable with a bit of knowledge and preparation.
Ready for Personalised Support?
If you’d like tailored advice for your kidney health or help putting your diet into action, you can book a one-on-one consultation with a renal dietitian at any time.
We’re here to support you on your journey.
