Phosphorus is an essential mineral that plays an important role in bone health, energy production, and cell repair. However, for people with kidney disease or impaired kidney function, managing phosphorus intake is important. The kidneys are responsible for filtering excess phosphorus from the blood, but when they don’t work properly, phosphorus can build up in the body. High phosphorus levels can cause bone and cardiovascular problems, including calcification of blood vessels and other soft tissues.
For people with healthy kidneys, a balanced intake of foods rich in phosphorus. However, those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or other kidney-related problems should limit high-phosphorus foods to avoid further kidney damage.
Foods High in Phosphorus (Especially Related to Kidney Health)
Here’s a list of phosphorus-rich foods, categorized for easy reference:
1. Dairy products
Milk is one of the main sources of phosphorus. While these foods are usually rich in calcium, which is good for bone health, they are also high in phosphorus, creating problems for people with kidney disease.
- milk (1 cup): ~230 mg phosphorus
- cheese (1 ounce): ~120-200 mg
- Yogurt (1 cup): ~300 mg
- Cottage cheese (1/2 cup): ~150 mg
An alternative for kidney health: Choose a cheaper, non-dairy alternative like almond or rice milk (check the label to avoid phosphate additives).
2. Meat, Poultry, and Fish
Animal-based proteins are rich in phosphorus, especially organ meats or processed meats.
- Chicken breast (cooked, 3 ounces): ~180 mg
- Beef steak (cooked, 3 ounces): ~200 mg
- Pork (cooked, 3 ounces): ~200 mg
- Salmon (cooked, 3 ounces): ~200 mg
- Sardines (canned): ~400 mg
An alternative for kidney health: Small pieces of lean meat are recommended. Also, consider plant-based proteins like beans and lentils, but also keep the phosphorus content.
3. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts, seeds, and butter are healthy sources of fat and protein but also contain phosphorus.
- Almonds (1 ounce): ~135 mg
- Sunflower seeds (1 ounce): ~330 mg
- Peanut oil (2 tbsp): ~100-150 mg
- Pumpkin seeds (1 ounce): ~400 mg
An alternative for kidney health: Limit portions or choose unsalted varieties. Some seeds, such as chia and flaxseeds, are low in phosphorus.
4. Peas and beans
Peas are a great source of plant-based protein but can also be high in phosphorus. Phosphorus in plant food is in a form called phytatewhich is not easily absorbed by the body like phosphorus from animal sources. However, people with kidney problems may need to moderate their intake.
- Lentils (cooked, 1 cup): ~350 mg
- Peas (cooked, 1 cup): ~280 mg
- Black beans (cooked, 1 cup): ~240 mg
- Chickpeas (cooked, 1 cup): ~250 mg
An alternative for kidney health: Focus on smaller portions of legumes and choose low-phosphorus varieties when possible.
5. Whole grains
Whole grains are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but they also contain phosphorus. Processed white grains, while less nutritious, may also be lower in phosphorus.
- Oatmeal (1 cup, cooked): ~180 mg
- Quinoa (1 cup, cooked): ~280 mg
- Red rice (1 cup, cooked): ~150 mg
- Whole wheat bread (1 slice): ~70 mg
An alternative for kidney health: White rice, white bread, and refined grains are lower in phosphorus and are preferable for people with kidney disease.
6. Processed and fast food
Many processed foods, including fast foods and packaged snacks, contain them phosphate additives to improve flavor and increase shelf life. This additive is easily absorbed by the body, which is especially problematic for people with kidney disease.
- Processed meat (eg, ham, pork, sausage): ~300-400 mg per serving
- Frozen pizza: ~300 mg per slice
- Soda (especially cola): ~50 mg per 12 oz can (due to phosphoric acid)
An alternative for kidney health: Choose fresh, unprocessed foods whenever possible and check labels for phosphate additives (look for words like “phosphate” or “phosphate”).
7. Chocolate and Cocoa Products
Chocolate is delicious but high in phosphorus, especially dark chocolate and cocoa powder.
- Dark chocolate (1 ounce): ~80 mg
- cocoa powder (1 teaspoon): ~65 mg
An alternative for kidney health: For a sweet treat, opt for a dessert based on fruit or a small amount of white chocolate, which is low in phosphorus.
8. Egg yolk
Egg yolks are nutritious but high in phosphorus.
- One large egg yolk: ~85 mg phosphorus
An alternative for kidney health: Stick to egg whites, which are low in phosphorus (~ 5 mg per large egg white).
9. Soft Drinks and Soda
Dark colored sodas, such as cola, often contain phosphoric acidwhich contributes significantly to phosphorus intake.
- Coke (12 ounces): ~50 mg
- Other sodas with phosphate additives: Varies based on brand.
An alternative for kidney health: Choose water, herbal tea, or kidney-friendly drinks. Avoid colas and dark sodas altogether.
10. Organ Meat
Organ meats are very high in phosphorus and should be avoided or strictly limited if you have kidney disease.
- Liver (3 ounces, cooked): ~350 mg
- Kidney (3 ounces, cooked): ~300 mg
An alternative for kidney health: Cut lean meat into smaller pieces, and avoid all organ meats.
Phosphorus Additives to Watch Out for
Many processed foods and drinks contain it phosphorus-based additives. The additive is more easily absorbed by the body than phosphorus in food, so it is very dangerous for people with kidney problems. Common phosphorus additives include:
- Phosphoric acid
- Dicalcium phosphate
- sodium phosphate
- Monosodium phosphate
- Trisodium phosphate
You can find this additive in:
- Processed cheese
- Instant pudding
- canned fish
- Frozen dinner
- Prepackaged baked goods
Regulating Phosphorus Intake for Kidney Health
For people with kidney disease or who are at risk of kidney problems, here are some tips to manage your phosphorus intake:
- Read the Label: Always check food labels for phosphorus additives. Foods with phosphate additives should be avoided.
- Limit Dairy and Meat: Try to reduce your intake of high phosphorus dairy and meat products, or choose lower phosphorus alternatives.
- Use Phosphate Binders: If prescribed by a doctor, phosphate binders can help reduce the absorption of phosphorus from the food you eat.
- Choose Refined Grains: While whole grains are healthy, refined grains (such as white rice and pasta) are lower in phosphorus and may be better for people with kidney problems.
- Consult a dietician: A renal dietitian can help you create a meal plan that limits phosphorus while still providing the nutrients you need.
Conclusion
For those with kidney disease or at risk for kidney problems, controlling phosphorus intake is important to maintain kidney health. While phosphorus is an essential mineral for the body, too much of it can cause complications, especially for people with impaired kidney function. By being mindful of phosphorus-rich foods and making kidney-friendly substitutions, you can protect your kidneys and support your overall health.
