What is the benefit of a low-phosphorus diet in the management of renal disease? What kind of foods are high in phosphorus?
Phosphorus is a mineral that may be found naturally in a variety of meals and is also added to a variety of industrially processed foods. When you consume meals that contain phosphorus, the majority of the phosphorus is absorbed into your bloodstream. The kidneys are responsible for removing excess phosphorus from the blood.
The failure of your kidneys may result in an elevated phosphorus level in your blood, placing you at increased risk for heart disease, brittle bones, joint discomfort, and perhaps death.
If you need to keep phosphorus levels under control
The amount of phosphorus you need is determined by your kidney function. Depending on whether you have early-stage renal disease or are on dialysis, you may need to restrict your phosphorus intake. Because phosphorus may be found in almost every item, it might be difficult to eliminate it from your diet.
According to current recommendations, natural foods should be preferred above processed meals that have had phosphorus added to them. Natural foods have a lower phosphorus absorption rate than processed meals, and therefore provide greater nutrients overall. Individuals who need phosphorus restriction were instructed for many years that healthful foods such as whole grains, beans, and other plant-based diets should be avoided. This is no longer essential, according to a recent study.
Pay close attention to the labels on the foods you eat
Food manufacturers may use phosphorus in the preparation of their products to thicken them, enhance their flavour, avoid discolouration, or prolong their shelf life. Check the contents on food labels to determine whether any of the ingredients include the phrase "phos." When attempting to keep your phosphorus intake under control, stay away from items that include the word "phos" in the ingredient list.
Among the foods that have phosphorus added to them are:
- Calcium phosphate is a compound that contains calcium and phosphate.
- Sodium phosphate is a chemical compound that is used to make a variety of products.
- Phosphoric acid is a kind of acid.
- Monopotassium phosphate is a kind of phosphate.
- Sodium acid pyrophosphate is a chemical compound.
- Sodium tripolyphosphate is a chemical compound.
Check the ingredient labels on the packaging or consult with your dietician for alternatives.
The most effective strategy to minimise phosphorus in your diet is to avoid foods that are high in phosphorus, such as the following:
- Fast meals, foods offered at petrol stations, and other packaged and convenience foods are all examples of what is referred to as convenience foods.
- American cheese, processed cheese spreads in cans or jars, and cheese products in block form are all examples of prepared cheese products.
- Fresh or frozen meats that have been flavoured or moistened with additional liquids to keep them wet (referred to as "phos" in the ingredients)
- Cola and pepper-type sodas, several flavoured waters, numerous bottled or canned teas, fruit punch, energy or sports drinks, numerous powdered drink mixes, beer, and wine are all available.
The table below provides examples of foods that are lower in phosphorus and may be substituted for those that are richer in this mineral. You should still check your portion sizes and restrict the amount of servings you consume or drink each day, even if a meal or drink is low in phosphorus in comparison to others.
Low-phosphorus foods:
- Homemade meals or snacks created with fresh ingredients or choices that do not include "phos" in the components are preferred.
- Almond or rice milk that has not been enhanced
- Brie, Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella cheese (or a tiny quantity of each)
- Cream cheese, whether regular or low-fat, or sour cream
- Sherbet, sorbet, or frozen fruit pops are all good options.
- Dinner rolls, bread, bagels, or English muffins made from scratch
- Fish or seafood without "phos" in the components such as lean meat, eggs, lamb, wild game, or poultry, seafood or other fish
- Jelly beans, hard candy, fruit snacks, or gumdrops are all good options (in moderation)
- Water, lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, root beer, and certain drink mixes (those that do not have the word "phos" in the ingredients); freshly brewed coffee (made from beans) or brewed tea (made from tea bags); lemonade
Seek expert assistance
Consult with a trained dietician for assistance in developing a food plan that matches your requirements. A dietitian can ensure that you get enough nutrition while adhering to your doctor's medical instructions, if necessary.
In addition, your doctor may offer a phosphate binder medicine to assist regulate the amount of phosphorus your body absorbs from your food consumption. These drugs are only marginally effective. Still, you'll want to keep the quantity of phosphorus in your diet under control.
