Salmon is one of the most nutritious fish available It is rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals For people with kidney disease, salmon can be an excellent addition to the diet in moderation. In this article, we will explore the benefits of salmon for kidney health, look at the nutrition facts, and discuss whether canned salmon is a good option.
Why Salmon is Beneficial For Kidney Health
Salmon is packed with nutrients that make it a superfood for overall health. Here are some of the reasons why salmon is great for people with kidney disease:
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High-Quality Protein: Salmon provides about 17g of protein per 3oz serving. This makes it an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein without too much saturated fat. People with kidney disease need more protein to help prevent muscle wasting.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is one of the best sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3s like EPA and DHA. Omega-3s provide heart benefits, help manage cholesterol levels, and may decrease chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is common in kidney disease.
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Vitamin D: Salmon is one of the few natural food sources of vitamin D. Low vitamin D levels are common in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Vitamin D helps regulate calcium absorption and bone health.
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B Vitamins: Salmon contains B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, and B12. Many people with advanced CKD lack these essential nutrients. B vitamins help with energy levels and nerve function.
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Potassium Salmon contains moderate amounts of potassium. Unlike some fish, it can be part of a kidney-friendly diet within portion limits Always check with your dietitian
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Phosphorus: Salmon contains lower amounts of phosphorus than many meats and poultry. Phosphorus levels need to be managed in advanced CKD to help prevent bone disease.
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Selenium: Salmon is an excellent source of selenium, a mineral with antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Canned Salmon Nutrition Facts
Canned salmon is a convenient way to get the benefits of salmon on a kidney diet. Here are some key nutrition facts about canned salmon:
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A 3oz serving of canned salmon with bones contains about:
- Calories: 132
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Potassium: 349mg
- Phosphorus: 231mg
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Canned salmon with bones has more calcium than canned salmon without bones.
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Look for canned salmon packed in water. Salmon canned in oil will have more fat and calories.
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Canned salmon is not a significant source of carbohydrates or fiber.
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Pink and sockeye salmon have the most omega-3s of canned varieties. Chum and keta salmon have the least.
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Canned salmon is cheaper than fresh but lacks some vitamins degraded by the canning process.
Always drain and rinse canned salmon to reduce the sodium content. Compare labels and choose low sodium options when possible.
Is Canned Salmon Good For a Kidney Diet?
Canned salmon can be a nutritious kidney-friendly food if eaten in moderation. Here are some tips for incorporating canned salmon into a renal diet:
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Check with your dietitian about how much canned salmon best fits your individual diet needs and restrictions. Canned fish is high in protein so portions may need to be adjusted.
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Choose canned salmon with bones for more calcium, an important nutrient that needs monitoring in kidney disease.
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Select salmon canned in water rather than oil for less fat and calories.
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Look for low sodium or reduced sodium canned salmon. Rinsing the salmon before use can further reduce the sodium content.
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Balance your phosphorus intake over the day when eating canned fish with bones, which is higher in phosphorus.
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Avoid large tuna species like albacore that may have higher mercury levels. Salmon has lower mercury concerns.
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Check the ingredient list and avoid canned salmon with added salt, preservatives, or other seasonings.
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Raw or undercooked fish poses a higher risk for food poisoning. Cook canned salmon thoroughly when used in recipes like salmon cakes or salmon patties.
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If you are on dialysis, be sure to account for the phosphorus when planning meals and snacks for the day.
Healthy Ways To Eat Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is versatile. Here are some simple and tasty ways to enjoy it on a renal diet:
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Make salmon salad, tacos, or wraps using Greek yogurt or avocado instead of mayo to limit phosphorus add-ins.
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Mix with whole grain pasta or rice for an easy salmon pasta or rice bowl meal.
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Add to omelets, frittatas, or scrambled egg white breakfasts for a protein and omega-3 boost.
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Make salmon cakes or salmon patties using kidney-friendly binder ingredients like mashed potatoes or bread crumbs.
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use in sandwiches on kidney-friendly bread or wraps with veggie toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, or cucumber.
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Combine with potatoes or cauliflower rice and seasonings for a simple salmon hash.
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Make salmon croquettes by mixing canned salmon with mashed kidney-friendly veggies like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips.
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Stir canned salmon into salads, grain bowls, soups, and stews at the end to retain moisture.
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Season and bake salmon patties in the oven using parchment paper instead of frying to reduce fat.
Always rinse canned salmon before use and avoid adding high sodium ingredients to keep the overall sodium content lower. Get creative with seasonings like lemon, herbs, garlic, spices, vinegar, mustard, etc.
Salmon provides exceptional nutritional value for people with chronic kidney disease. While fresh salmon is ideal, canned salmon can also be part of a well-rounded renal diet in moderation. To maximize the benefits, choose low sodium varieties packed in water, rinse before use, and balance with other foods throughout your dialysis day or week. Incorporate canned salmon into kidney-friendly recipes and dishes for a tasty way to get anti-inflammatory omega-3s, protein, and key nutrients on a renal diet. As with any prepared foods, check with your renal dietitian to see how canned salmon can fit into your individual diet needs and restrictions.
“No Salt Added” Foods
When you don’t have kidney or cholesterol problems, you don’t know how much salt is in everything. You need to be especially cautious when it comes to any pre-packaged or canned foods. Make sure to check the sodium levels on all products. Also, avoid using salt when you cook your own meals at home.
Don’t use any kind of salt, even if it’s flavored. Pre-seasoned or flavored foods are also off the table. Sodium can cause huge flare-ups in your kidney disease that may have drastic effects in the long run.
If you can’t use salt and you’re desperate to add some flavoring to your foods, look no further than red bell peppers. They have huge amounts of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, and they are very low on potassium. According to DaVita, potassium is one of the most harmful substances for kidney disease.
For a tasty meal, mix red bell peppers with your favorite protein. They’re also great as a snack.
Are you sick and tired of being on the dialysis diet? Add garlic to your food! It tastes great and has many natural ingredients that can fight infection and harmful bacteria. Don’t use garlic salt, though—use garlic powder instead! Garlic is a strong and tasty food ingredient as long as it doesn’t have any sodium in it.
An Apple a Day
Apples are an often underestimated fruit. Although they are naturally sweet, they aren’t too sugary or unhealthy in any way. In fact, apples are known scientifically to reduce the effects of inflammatory conditions and diseases, including kidney disease. Apples can also lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of cancer. This is because apples have a lot of anti-inflammatory qualities that make it a true superfood.
Now that we’re on a fruit kick, you should be aware of the extreme health benefits of blueberries. Eat them raw, blend them into a smoothie, or top a crunchy salad with them. There is an antioxidant in blueberries that can help reduce swelling, redness, and other signs of irritation in your kidneys.
Plus, blueberries increase brain health and brain activity, and can even strengthen bone mass. They are an excellent food to eat even when you’re not on a kidney diet!.
Egg whites serve as a reliable protein option when you’re on a renal diet. Egg whites give you all of the amino acids your body needs to promote good health. In addition, if you’re on a renal diet, you need to cut down on the phosphorous you eat. Egg whites have the least amount of phosphorous of any protein.
Another solid protein option is fish with omega-3 fatty acids. For your health, salmon is the best fish, but any fish that is low in mercury and cholesterol will do. The American Heart Association and kidney experts around the world recommend this as a healthy protein choice that has many health benefits. You should eat fish at least twice a week. Salmon, trout, tuna, and mackerel are some of the best fish to eat.
Can eating Fish Help Slow Down The Progression Of Kidney Disease?
FAQ
Can you eat canned salmon on a renal diet?
Is canned fish good for kidneys?
What fish is not good for kidney disease?
Can I eat smoked salmon with kidney disease?
Is salmon good for kidney health?
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health, which can benefit individuals with kidney disease. Vitamin D is important for bone health and may also have a role in reducing inflammation. Salmon, often referred to as a ” superfood ,” is an excellent addition to a kidney-friendly diet for several reasons:
Is smoked salmon safe for kidneys?
Smoked salmon is safe for the kidneys, as long as it does not exceed the renal load, that is, the amount of recommended daily protein.
Is salmon good for CKD?
Salmon Salmon is one of the most popular fish on the menu, and it’s one of the richest in omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals. However, it’s also naturally high in potassium and phosphorus, so people living with CKD shouldn’t go overboard with portion sizes.
Is canned salmon good for You?
You could get lots of calcium. Though you should definitely watch out for your sodium intake, there is a benefit of eating canned salmon: it’s full of the mineral and electrolyte, calcium. Dr. Axe says a 3.5 ounce serving of canned salmon provides almost as much calcium as a glass of skim milk.