Low Sodium Foods for Kidney Disease: Simple Swaps and Recipes

One of the simplest ways to lower your sodium intake is to eat foods that are naturally low in sodium. Examples include fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, lean meats like chicken, fish, and turkey, and whole grains like rice and oats. They are great choices when prepared without added salt.

Fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables, and meats are often better than processed or packaged versions, which may contain added salt. Check labels on frozen foods, as some may contain salt or sauces that raise sodium levels.

If your doctor has also asked you to limit potassium or phosphorus, some of these foods will fit your plan better than others. Our kidney-friendly diet guide covers which fruits, vegetables, and proteins are lower in both.

Another way to cut back on sodium is by making a few small swaps for foods you use regularly.

Season with Herbs, Spices, and Salt-Free Seasonings

Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, rosemary, basil, oregano, and parsley can all add flavor. Lemon and lime juice or zest can also take a meal's flavor up a notch. Salt-free seasoning blends are another convenient way to make a dish tastier without increasing sodium. For more ideas, see our list of spices and herbs that lower blood pressure naturally.

Salt substitutes are a different product from salt-free seasonings. Many of them replace sodium chloride with potassium chloride, which can be unsafe when your kidneys have trouble clearing potassium. Check with your care team before using one.

Choose No Salt Added Canned Vegetables

Canned vegetables can be a convenient way to get more vegetables into your diet, but they often contain added salt. Look for cans labeled "no salt added." Draining and rinsing can also help remove some of the sodium.

Opt for Unsalted or Low Sodium Broth

Broth is often used in soups, sauces, and casseroles, so choosing an unsalted version can make a big difference in the overall sodium. Add herbs and spices to increase flavor when using low sodium broth. Some reduced-sodium broths and soups replace salt with potassium chloride, so read the ingredient list if you're also watching potassium.

Try Lower Sodium Condiments

Ketchup, mustard, soy sauce, and other condiments may contain more salt than you might expect, so compare labels to find choices with less per serving. These are often labeled as "no salt added" or "lower sodium." Our low sodium diet guide explains what each sodium claim on a label means.

Look for Low Sodium Sandwich Meat

When making a sandwich with deli meat, look for options labeled "lower sodium" and compare brands to find the one with the lowest amount. While you're reading the label, check the ingredient list too. Many processed meats contain phosphate additives, which show up as ingredients with "phos" in the name, such as sodium phosphate.