9 Natural Foods to Avoid by Renal Cancer Patients
A high salt diet will upset the sodium balance leading to reduced functioning of the kidney. The kidney will then not be able to flush out the excess water, leading to blood pressure putting additional pressure on the kidneys. The effect of excessive minerals on the kidney is also similar and hence both food items high on sodium and mineral should be avoided.
Avocado
Avocados are a popular and favorite food. It is recommended for many health conditions as it contains nutrients and antioxidants but it also contains high levels of potassium, which can be detrimental to renal cancer patients.
Colas
Colas are addictive and high on sugar and additives. The dark-colored colas contain phosphorus and added salts that can be absorbed by the intestine, which gives the cola the color and keeps it long-lasting. Those diagnosed with renal cancer should avoid dark colas in particular.
Brown Rice
A cup of brown rice could contain as high as 150 mg of phosphorous and 154 mg of potassium. One can still eat brown rice off and on if they control the portion size and supplement with vegetables. They can also look for alternative grains like barley and buckwheat.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain potassium and are not recommended for anyone with renal cancer. “Avoid tomato” could sound difficult, as it is a part of sauce, curries, and gravies. It will be difficult but doable. One has to give up tomatoes or find dishes without tomatoes. One can also learn to create new dishes that can be equally tasty.
Bananas
Bananas are an all-time favorite with every age group and are a source of instant energy. However bananas contain high levels of potassium. Even one banana a day can boost the potassium levels in your blood.
Dairy
Dairy helps to boost bone strength. One cup of milk contains both high levels of potassium and phosphorous, which means all dairy products like butter; cheese and cream too can boost the level of the minerals in the blood. A person affected by renal cancer should avoid dairy and dairy products to avoid the build of the minerals in the bloodstream.
Some dried fruits
Fresh and dried fruits like apricots, dates, raisins, and prunes contain potassium. When you dry these fruits, the potassium gets concentrated. High potassium levels may not be removed by your dysfunctional kidneys. Hence, it is advised to avoid foods with high potassium content.
Potatoes
Potatoes have to be avoided too as they are high in potassium. If you love fries and mashed potato, it is advised to give it up if you are affected by any kidney diseases, including renal cancer.
Tip to reduce potassium in potato: Soak in water for four hours or double cook them. Though this does not take away the potassium completely, you can have a very small portion. Be conscious that you do not overeat them.
Leafy Greens
Spinach is the first go-to food for nutrients. However, since they contain high potassium, they are not recommended for people with renal cancer.
With so many food groups out of the list of safe foods, it sometimes is a matter of consternation for families as to what to cook for those with kidney-related ailments. There are still whole ranges of items that are safe for them and a wide range of cooking options available. One needs to take a lot of effort to eat healthily and consciously stay away from those options, which are unhealthy.