Last updated: August 7, 2026
Smart devices are a big part of our lives. With this comes an increase in the development of applications (apps) for many things, including health-related mobile apps. There are thousands of health-related and diet apps available to download. Of these, roughly 1,000 focus on specific chronic diseases. It is often more convenient for individuals to reach out to their smartphones for answers rather than seeking one-to-one counseling.
Renal Nutrition Apps Study
A study1 published in 2017 in the Journal of Renal Nutrition delved into the topic of apps focusing on renal nutrition. This study analyzed 21 apps tailored towards the renal diet. The purpose of the app, accuracy of information provided, and the technical and health literacy of these apps were evaluated. Information provided was considered accurate if the nutrient prescription and/or dietary recommendations were consistent with evidence-based guidelines for the dietary management for kidney disease. Of course apps change frequently so speaking with your dietitian or care team, or researching for updated apps is important.
Researchers found that the majority of these apps provided information on food nutrients and composition and served as an educational tool. However, while the technical quality and health literacy were considered acceptable, only half the apps contained information that was accurate and evidenced-based.
Some of the apps that were considered good quality including the myDaVita app, KidneyPal, KidneyDiet and H2O Overload (from the National Kidney Foundation).
Online Tools for Kidney Diets
In addition to health and diet apps, there are online tools for meal planning, food tracking and nutrition analysis, in some cases. Using an app to track what and how you are eating can help identify areas of improvement or gaps and possibly where high phosphorus foods are coming from or extra fluid. Among other information it can provide (like sodium).
Missing Apps
Several popular kidney diet apps, including Kidney APPetite and Pocket Dietitian have been discontinued or do not work with newer operating systems. Many other mobile apps continue to be updated while newer applications are being developed.
To promote accuracy, renal dietitians are encouraged to partake in the development of these apps. Dietitians can also provide guidance on app use and utilize recorded diet information from these applications as part of their counseling.
References
1. Lambert, K. et al. (2017). Should We Recommend Renal Diet-Related Apps to Our Patients? An Evaluation of the Quality and Health Literacy Demand of Renal Diet-Related Mobile Applications. Journal of Renal Nutrition, Volume 27 (6), p.430-438.
Disclaimer: These app reviews are for informational purposes only, and do not constitute medical advice. Before using an app, consult with your healthcare provider and the manufacturer as to the app’s usefulness and accuracy. These reviews are not intended to endorse or confirm the effectiveness or accuracy of the apps in question.
