Is Tilapia Good for Renal Diet? Kidney-Friendly Fish

While protein is necessary to improve overall health, people on a renal diet should restrict protein to 0.55-0.60 g/kg body weight per day. High protein intake can worsen kidney damage in people with kidney disease.

Fish is high in protein and thus recommended in a renal diet. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help lower triglyceride levels in the blood vessels, heart, and kidneys. Omega-3 fatty acids also lower blood pressure in people with kidney disease.

Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids that should be included in a renal diet include:

• Salmon
• Tuna
• Herring
• Sardine
• Mackerel

One study showed that consuming fish such as Florida pompano, red drum, spotted eagle ray, big-scale pomfret, Cortez flounder, largemouth bass, and Periche mojarra, is especially good for people with kidney disease.

However, avoid or limit seafood that is rich in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus:

• Swordfish
• Smoked or canned fish
• Escolar

Recommended serving sizes of various seafood for people with kidney disease are as follows:

• Fish: 1 ounce
• Shellfish: 1 ounce
• Canned tuna and salmon: 1 ounce or ½ cup

In addition to avoiding or limiting certain foods, people with kidney disease should also follow these tips when it comes to preparing their meals:

• Avoid adding salt to your food when cooking or eating.
• Choose fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned varieties.
• Avoid processed meats such as ham, bacon, sausage, and lunch meats.
• Limit high-sodium condiments such as soy sauce, barbecue sauce, and ketchup.
• Avoid pickled foods.
• Check nutrition labels before purchasing foods.
• Snack on fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Eat slowly and do not overeat.
• Avoid distractions when eating.
• Limit the amount of protein-rich foods such as:
  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Meat
  • Egg
  • Dairy
  • Beans
  • Nuts
  • Grains
• Opt for heart-healthy foods such as:
  • Lean meats
  • Poultry without skin
  • Fish
  • Beans
  • Vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese
• Grill, broil, bake, roast, or stir-fry instead of deep frying.
• Use nonstick cooking spray or olive oil instead of butter.
• Cut fat from meat and remove skin from poultry before eating.