15 Foods to Avoid if You Have Kidney Disease and Diabetes

Managing kidney disease and diabetes simultaneously requires careful attention to your diet. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood, while diabetes management involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Unfortunately, certain foods can be harmful to both conditions, exacerbating symptoms and potentially leading to further complications. 

If you are living with these health concerns, understanding which foods to avoid can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. Below is a list of 15 foods that people with both kidney disease and diabetes should limit or avoid, with explanations of why these foods can be problematic.

Processed Meats

Processed meats, such as bacon, ham, sausage, and deli meats, are loaded with sodium and preservatives. High sodium intake is particularly harmful to those with kidney disease because it increases blood pressure and causes fluid retention, which adds strain on the kidneys. For those managing diabetes, these meats can also be loaded with hidden sugars, increasing blood sugar levels without you realizing it. 

The high levels of saturated fat in processed meats can further exacerbate health problems, contributing to heart disease, which people with diabetes are already at higher risk for. Opting for lean, fresh meats like chicken or turkey is a much healthier choice, as these provide protein without the added salt or sugars.

Canned Foods

Canned foods like soups, vegetables, and beans often contain excessive amounts of sodium, which is used to preserve them. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and fluid buildup, making kidney function worse. Even though some canned goods are labeled as “low sodium,” it’s important to check the label closely, as even reduced-sodium varieties can still have more salt than you might expect. 

Canned fruits are often packed in sugary syrups, which can cause blood sugar spikes for people with diabetes. Whenever possible, choose fresh or frozen alternatives that have no added salt or sugar for a safer, healthier option.

Sugary Beverages

Sugary drinks like sodas, sweetened iced teas, and energy drinks are packed with empty calories and high sugar content. These drinks cause blood sugar levels to rise rapidly, posing a major risk for people with diabetes. Over time, frequent consumption of sugary beverages can lead to insulin resistance and increased risk of heart disease. 

For those with kidney disease, these drinks offer no nutritional benefit and can contribute to weight gain, which puts additional stress on the kidneys. Water, unsweetened herbal teas, or infused water with lemon or cucumber are much better options for hydration without the risks.

Potatoes

Potatoes, while a staple in many diets, are loaded with potassium, a mineral that can be dangerous for people with kidney disease. Potassium helps regulate nerve and muscle function, but too much potassium in the blood can lead to irregular heartbeats and even heart failure if your kidneys can’t filter it out efficiently. 

For those managing diabetes, potatoes are high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar to spike. Consider swapping potatoes for lower-carb and lower-potassium vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini, which can be just as filling without the negative health impacts.

White Bread

White bread is highly processed and contains very little fiber, making it a poor choice for managing blood sugar levels. Its refined carbohydrates cause rapid spikes in blood glucose, making it difficult for people with diabetes to maintain stable blood sugar levels. 

Furthermore, white bread lacks the nutritional benefits found in whole grain alternatives, such as fiber and essential nutrients like magnesium. For individuals with kidney disease, the phosphorus and potassium levels in certain whole-grain breads could be an issue, so it’s important to consult a dietitian to find the best bread options for your needs.

Bananas

Bananas are commonly known as a healthy fruit, but they are particularly high in potassium, which could be problematic for individuals with kidney disease. High potassium levels can disrupt heart function and cause dangerous complications. 

While bananas are naturally sweet, their sugar content can also pose a problem for individuals with diabetes, as they can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly. For a safer option, consider switching to lower-potassium fruits like apples, berries, or pears, which offer vitamins and minerals without the risks of excessive potassium or high sugar content.

Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in phosphorus, potassium, and protein, all of which are essential nutrients but can be harmful in excess for people with kidney disease. Overloading the kidneys with these nutrients can make it difficult for them to function properly, leading to the buildup of waste in the bloodstream. 

Some dairy products contain added sugars, which can elevate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond or soy milk, are often lower in phosphorus and potassium, making them a better choice for individuals managing both kidney disease and diabetes.

Oranges and Orange Juice

Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, but they are also very high in potassium, making them a risky choice for those with kidney disease. While orange juice is a popular breakfast beverage, it often contains added sugars, which can cause blood sugar levels to spike in people with diabetes. 

Even 100% orange juice without added sugars can raise blood glucose levels due to its natural sugar content. Instead, opt for lower-potassium fruits like grapes or apples, which can still provide a refreshing snack without the risks associated with high potassium or sugar content.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes and tomato-based products like sauces and ketchup are high in potassium and can be difficult for individuals with kidney disease to process. Excess potassium in the blood can cause muscle weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, and, in severe cases, heart failure. 

In addition, tomato sauces often contain added sugars, which can negatively impact blood sugar levels for diabetics. To keep your meals flavorful without risking your health, consider using herbs, spices, and lower-potassium vegetables like bell peppers as substitutes in your favorite recipes.

Dried Fruits

Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and dates may seem like a healthy snack, but they are concentrated sources of both sugar and potassium. This can be problematic for people with both kidney disease and diabetes, as dried fruits can cause sharp increases in both blood sugar and potassium levels.

A handful of dried fruits can contain as much sugar as a candy bar, making them a poor choice for managing diabetes. Instead, opt for fresh fruit options that are lower in potassium and sugar, such as berries or watermelon, which offer hydration and nutrition without the downsides.

Avocados

Avocados are often praised for their healthy fats, but they are also very high in potassium, making them a risky food for people with kidney disease. Even a small portion can contain more potassium than what’s recommended for someone with kidney issues. 

Avocados are calorie-dense, which can contribute to weight gain if not eaten in moderation—something both diabetics and those with kidney disease should be mindful of. If you’re looking for a source of healthy fats, consider alternatives like olive oil, which offers similar benefits without the high potassium levels.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is considered a healthier option for most people due to its fiber content, but for those with kidney disease, it can be problematic. Brown rice is higher in both phosphorus and potassium compared to white rice, making it less suitable for individuals with impaired kidney function. 

Brown rice is still a carbohydrate-rich food, which can cause blood sugar spikes in people with diabetes. For a safer alternative, you could try cauliflower rice or other low-carb substitutes that offer fiber without the excess potassium or phosphorus.

Pickled Foods

Pickles, sauerkraut, and other pickled items are packed with sodium, which can be harmful for those with kidney disease. High sodium levels can cause your body to retain water, leading to increased blood pressure and swollen extremities. 

For diabetics, consuming too much sodium increases the risk of heart disease, a common complication of diabetes. Fresh vegetables without added salt are a healthier choice, providing the same crunch and flavor without the sodium overload.

Chips and Snack Foods

Chips, pretzels, and other salty snacks are loaded with sodium and unhealthy fats, both of which are detrimental to kidney function and overall health. These snacks are often high in refined carbohydrates, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels for diabetics. 

Moreover, the lack of nutrients in these snacks makes them an empty source of calories, contributing to weight gain and making it harder to manage both kidney disease and diabetes. Instead, choose whole-grain snacks or raw vegetables for a more nutritious and satisfying option.

Instant Noodles

Instant noodles are quick and convenient, but they are extremely high in sodium and contain little nutritional value. The sodium content in just one serving can be more than half of the daily recommended intake for individuals with kidney disease. 

Moreover, the refined carbs in instant noodles cause blood sugar levels to spike, which is risky for people with diabetes. A healthier alternative would be making your own noodle dish with whole-grain or vegetable noodles and a low-sodium broth, allowing you to control the ingredients and make a more nutritious meal.

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