15 Low Potassium Foods You Should Include in Your Diet

TLDRA board-certified nephrologist shares 15 low potassium foods to include in your diet for improved blood pressure and lower risk of stroke. These foods, such as blueberries, pears, kale, tofu, and walnuts, offer nutritional benefits and are suitable for individuals with kidney disease or at risk for high potassium levels. Limiting high potassium drinks like orange juice and coconut water can help maintain a balanced potassium intake.

Key insights

🥦A low potassium diet does not have to limit all fruits and vegetables. Blueberries, pears, peas, kale, and cabbage are low potassium options rich in nutrients and fiber.

🥚Protein sources like tofu, canned tuna, and eggs are low potassium options that provide essential amino acids without excessive potassium.

🥜Walnuts, cashews, and peanuts are low potassium nuts that offer health benefits, but portion control is crucial due to their potassium content.

🍵Sticking to low potassium drinks like coffee, brewed tea, and plain water can help maintain a balanced potassium intake.

🔍Consulting a medical provider is essential to ensure these low potassium foods are safe for individual dietary needs and watching portion control is advised.

Q&A

Can I include fruits in my diet if I have kidney disease or at risk for high potassium levels?

Yes, you can include low potassium fruits like blueberries, pears, and apples in your diet. These fruits offer nutritional benefits and can be consumed in moderation.

Are there low potassium options for protein sources?

Yes, you can choose low potassium protein sources such as tofu, canned tuna, and eggs. These options provide essential amino acids without excessive potassium.

Are nuts a recommended part of a low potassium diet?

Yes, nuts like walnuts, cashews, and peanuts can be included in a low potassium diet. However, portion control is important due to their potassium content.

What drinks should I avoid to maintain a low potassium intake?

To maintain a low potassium intake, it is best to avoid high potassium drinks such as orange juice, milk, sports drinks, coconut water, and V8.

Is it necessary to consult a medical provider before following a low potassium diet?

Yes, it is important to consult a medical provider before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have kidney disease or other specific dietary needs.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, a board-certified nephrologist shares insights into low potassium foods.

01:19Certain plant foods may not cause a rise in blood potassium levels when consumed.

02:31Low potassium fruits like blueberries, pears, and apples are recommended.

04:39Peas, kale, and cabbage are low potassium vegetables.

04:56Tofu, canned tuna, and eggs are suitable low potassium protein sources.

06:41Choosing lower potassium drinks like coffee, brewed tea, and plain water can help manage potassium intake.

07:23Consulting a medical provider is advised, and portion control is essential when consuming low potassium foods.