Potassium and dialysis: the foods to watch

Potassium is a mineral that keeps your muscles and heart working. When kidneys fail, potassium can build up between sessions, and too much potassium can affect the heart rhythm. That is why your renal team checks it in every blood test.

Foods that are often high in potassium

• Bananas, dried fruit (dates, apricots, figs), avocados and oranges
• Potatoes and chips, especially when not soaked or boiled
• Tomatoes, tomato sauces and concentrated purées
• Nuts, chocolate and cocoa
• Pulses: lentils, chickpeas and beans
• Fruit juices and some salt substitutes (they often contain potassium)

Usually lower in potassium

• Apples, pears, berries, grapes and pineapple
• Cucumber, green beans, cabbage, peppers, lettuce
• White rice, pasta, couscous and white bread

Cooking tricks

Boiling vegetables in a large amount of water, then throwing the water away, removes part of their potassium. Cutting potatoes into small pieces and soaking them before cooking also helps.

Learn more

Read more: phosphorus and binders, eating out abroad and the National Kidney Foundation diet resources.

Useful resources

• National Kidney Foundation
• Kidney Care UK
• NHS – Dialysis

This article is general information and does not replace the advice of your nephrologist or renal team.