Chronic kidney disease
Stage-based sodium limit and protein target; potassium and phosphorus individualized to labs. Stages G4–G5/dialysis route to a clinician.
KDOQI 2020 (Statement 6.5.1, 1B/1C)
- Sodium: at most 2300 mg
Limit: high sodium food, ultraprocessed food, processed meat. Limit sodium to support blood-pressure and volume control.
KDOQI 2020 (Statement 3.0.1, 1A)
- Protein: 0.55 to 0.6 g
Eat more: legumes, whole grains, other vegetables. Favor plant protein sources within the prescribed low-protein target.
A low-protein diet in CKD requires close clinical supervision and a renal dietitian. Targets are individualized.
KDOQI 2020 (Statement 3.0.2, OPINION)
- Protein: 0.6 to 0.8 g
Eat more: legumes, whole grains, other vegetables. Favor plant protein sources within the prescribed protein target.
Protein targets in CKD with diabetes are individualized and need a renal dietitian; balance kidney protection with glycemic control.
KDOQI 2020 (Statement 6.4.1, OPINION)
Limit: high potassium. With moderate CKD plus an ACE inhibitor, ARB, or potassium-sparing diuretic, limit high-potassium foods to lower the risk of high blood potassium.
Potassium intake should be adjusted to serum levels (KDOQI 6.4.1). Avoid potassium-based salt substitutes unless cleared by your clinician.
KDOQI 2020 (Statements 6.3.1, 6.3.2)
Limit: phosphate additives, ultraprocessed food. Limit inorganic phosphate additives (highly absorbed) found in many ultraprocessed foods; adjust phosphorus to keep serum phosphate normal.
Phosphorus here is managed by limiting additives and ultraprocessed foods. Total phosphorus is individualized to your labs with a renal dietitian.
- National Kidney Foundation KDOQI / Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics — KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for Nutrition in CKD: 2020 Update
- Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) — KDIGO GFR categories (G1–G5) in CKD classification
Educational information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.