Why is Potassium Important?

Your kidneys help keep the right amount of potassium in your blood. When your kidneys don’t work well, potassium can build up and cause problems with your heart or muscles. That’s why it’s important to watch how much potassium you eat.

Potassium and Kidney Disease: What You Need to Know

• Early kidney disease (Stages 1–3): Usually, you don’t need to limit potassium unless your doctor says so.
• Later stages (Stages 4–5, not on dialysis): You may need to eat less potassium if your blood tests show it’s too high.
• If you are on dialysis: It’s even more important to control potassium in your diet.

Foods High in Potassium to Limit or Avoid

Try to eat less of these:

• Bananas
• Oranges and orange juice
• Potatoes (especially with skin)
• Tomatoes and tomato sauce
• Spinach and other leafy greens
• Avocados
• Dried fruits (like raisins, dates)

Foods Lower in Potassium That You Can Enjoy

These foods are usually safer choices:

• Apples and apple juice
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries)
• Grapes and grape juice
• Cabbage and cucumbers
• Rice and pasta
• Green beans and summer squash

Tips to Lower Potassium in Vegetables

• Peel and cut veggies into small pieces
• Boil vegetables in lots of water and then drain the water before eating
• This helps reduce potassium content

Be Careful with Salt Substitutes

Some salt substitutes have potassium, which can raise your potassium levels. Use regular salt as your doctor advises, and avoid salt substitutes unless told otherwise.

Important Reminders

• Always follow your healthcare team’s advice about diet and medications.
• If your potassium is high, your doctor might prescribe medicine to help lower it.
• Keep taking your medications as directed, especially if you take blood pressure or heart medicines.
• If you notice muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or feel very tired, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team

• What’s my potassium level?
• Should I limit potassium in my diet?
• Can you give me a list of foods I should eat or avoid?
• How can I prepare foods to lower potassium?

Remember: Managing potassium helps keep your heart and muscles healthy as your kidneys work. You can still enjoy many delicious foods—just choose the right ones!