individual’s nutritional requirements.
## Potassium: Why “Healthy” Foods Aren’t Always Simple
Potassium is essential for muscle and nerve function.
But in advanced kidney disease, the kidneys may not be able to remove potassium effectively.
This means some people with kidney disease need to monitor potassium intake.
That can create confusion because many foods commonly promoted as healthy contain potassium.
Bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, beans and many fruits and vegetables are nutritious foods, but people with kidney disease may have individualized potassium restrictions depending on their blood levels and treatment plan.
There is no universal “kidney diet.”
A person’s diet should be based on their kidney function and laboratory results.
## Phosphorus and Muscle Health
Phosphorus is another mineral closely connected to kidney function.
Healthy kidneys help regulate phosphate levels.
When kidney function declines, phosphate can accumulate.
This contributes to mineral
