Healthy Through the Holidays: Recipes and Advice to Remain Kidney-Conscious This Season

The holidays are just around the corner which means celebrations filled with family, food, and fun. For those with kidney disease and hypertension, it is important to remain aware of what and how much is being consumed. Below are some recipes and recommendations to help you stay healthy through the holidays.

Holiday Tips:

• Be aware of your fluid consumption. For those with fluid restrictions, please adhere to your prescribed diet. 
• Moderation is key! Small portions will help to control the amount of excess sodium.
• Limit sodium intake: table salt (sodium chloride) is usually not the culprit. Processed foods will contain more sodium due to preservatives. Replace salt with other dried or fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables (garlic, ginger, peppers, onions, etc.).
• Request refills of medications at least two weeks in advance to account for holiday pharmacy hours and office closures. Appointments may be required for refills. 
• Try to incorporate light exercise into your daily routine. This can include walking, stretching, indoor cycling, or water aerobics.
• If you have a fluid restriction, be sure to monitor your fluid intake as well. 

Recipes:
Drinks:

• Northwest Kidney Centers: Ginger Cranberry Punch
• Mayo Clinic: Blackberry Iced Tea with Cinnamon and Ginger

    Sides:

• Northwest Kidney Centers: Roasted Cranberry Sauce
• Northwest Kidney Centers: Collard Greens
• Puget Sound Kidney Centers: Herb Stuffing

Main Course:

• Northwest Kidney Centers: Honey Herb Glazed Turkey

Desserts:

• The Kidney Dietitian: Blueberry Cobbler
• National Kidney Foundation: Apple Puffs

Foods to stay away from:
Foods with a high potassium content: spinach, beans, squash, tomato, all potatoes
Foods with a high phosphorus content: beans, dairy, nuts, processed foods

Check out other posts on our blog for information on medication management tips while traveling and our Facebook page for additional Tasty Tuesday holiday recipes that are kind to your kidneys. 

Happy Holidays!

​​This website is for informational and educational purposes ONLY. While we strive for accurate, general medical information, this does not replace professional medical advice. Do not rely solely on this information. Please consult with your provider for more information regarding your specific needs. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.