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What is a normal phosphorus level?
The definition of normal phosphorus depends on if you have chronic kidney disease (CKD) in early stages or if you are on dialysis. Normal phosphorus on a routine blood test for the general public and CKD non-dialysis is 2.7 to 4.6 mg/dL. For dialysis patients the target range is 3.5 to 5.5 mg/dL. Higher levels are […]
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Diet Analysis Tools and Correct Totals for Potassium and Phosphorus
People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those on dialysis need to be aware of how much protein, potassium, sodium, phosphorus and calcium they consume. Since phosphorus and potassium are not required on food labels, food manufacturers may not analyze and provide data on these nutrients. Many online diet analysis tools provide only the available […]
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Phosphorus Binder News
This week Genzyme Corp. announced their phosphorus binding drug Renagel® is being replaced by the newer binder Renvela® in the US. The newer drug, available since March 2008, is similar to Renagel® but with the added benefit of a carbonate buffer. Renvela® contains no calcium or metals, and is not absorbed as it passes through […]
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L is for Lemon and Lime
Last updated: July 21, 2026 Increase flavor without increasing sodium with two world-famous citrus favorites–lemons and limes. These tart citrus fruits enhance the natural flavors in many foods. Their acids stimulate taste buds while masking the need for salt. Nutrients and Cooking Ideas Use the juice or zest, the colored part of the peel packed […]
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Chronic Kidney Disease, Cardiovascular Disease and a Heart Healthy Diet
Did you know most people with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) also have cardiovascular disease? CKD is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. For this reason, CKD non-dialysis patients and those on dialysis are encouraged to take preventative actions to protect against heart disease. Some of the things to do include: Many people already […]
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Thanksgiving: A Time for Giving Thanks
Thursday November 27th is Thanksgiving, a holiday to celebrate America’s beginning and give thanks for all we have. For kidney patients, following a renal diet is even more challenging when so many favorite foods are on the menu but not on the low potassium, low phosphorus, low sodium diet list. Here are some ways to […]
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Good foods for kidney diets–Italian seasonings pack in flavor
(This post is part of an ongoing series on selected ‘kidney-friendly’ foods and some of the good things included in the kidney diet.) Learning how to season and prepare kidney-friendly foods is a challenge for anyone prescribed a diet low in sodium, potassium and phosphorus. Adding flavors can make all the difference is preparing a […]
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Is Rice an Acceptable Food for a Kidney Diet?
Last updated: July 10, 2026 Plain white rice is a great choice for kidney diets because it is generally low in sodium (2-3 mg), potassium (24-30 mg) and phosphorus (30-35 mg). The same half cup serving of rice contains approximately 100 to 120 calories, 22 grams carbohydrate, 2 grams protein and 0 grams fat. For […]
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Dining Out on a Kidney Diet
Putting together all the pieces of a kidney diet may make dining out a challenge. By following a few guidelines, it is possible to stick with a renal diet and enjoy eating out. For additional information see the DaVita.com article Eating out on the Dialysis Diet.
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K is for Kale– A Healthy Low Potassium Green
One challenge people with chronic kidney disease face when following a low potassium renal diet is choosing healthy lower potassium vegetables. Cooked greens are often placed in the limit or avoid category and assumed to be high in potassium. Indeed, some greens, like beet greens, spinach and chard contain over 400 mg potassium per in […]