How to enjoy Christmas on a renal diet

Christmas on a renal diet doesn’t mean missing out on all your favourite foods and drinks. Making some savvy choices and enjoying things in moderation is key to celebrating over the festive season.

Please note that any changes to your diet should be made in consultation with your Nephrologist.

Fresh is best

Opt for fresh cooked meats like pork or turkey, rather than processed meats, and if you like crackling, just treat yourself to a small piece. Remember to balance out your meat with fruits and vegetables.

Play it cool

If you’re on fluid restrictions, avoid being out in the heat in the middle of the day, limit salty snacks to reduce thirst, and stay cool by sucking on ice or drinking slowly. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, or try a Christmas mocktail.

Be a potassium pro

For those on a low potassium diet, try boiling vegetables before baking to remove some potassium. Replace potato chips with corn chips or unsalted nuts, and limit the amount of juice and dried fruit. Instead of bananas and mangoes, opt for berries, apples, cherries and canned fruits.

(Low) salty and savoury

Go for low salt snacks such as lightly salted corn chips, popcorn or unsalted nuts, or make your own pita chips to have with low salt dips. Craving some cheese with your biccies? Use Philly cheese, mix with Sweet Chilli Philly or pesto, or try baked ricotta (250g ricotta, 1 egg and herbs/spices - bake for 15 minutes).

You dessert the best

Cheesecake, pavlova or trifle are great low-potassium dessert options for those on potassium restrictions. Load up on fresh fruit alongside desserts to keep portions a little smaller.