Phosphorous is a mineral found in food and our bones. Phosphorous has many functions in the body, including helping to build strong and healthy bones.
A low-phosphorous diet may be necessary if you have kidney disease. The kidneys help to filter phosphorous out of the blood. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, phosphorous levels can build up in your blood. Your body’s response is to lower these levels by drawing calcium from your bones. In turn, your bones are weakened. This puts you at greater risk for fractures .
Phosphorous is found in protein-rich foods. Examples include dairy products, meat, legumes, nuts, and seeds, as well as whole grains, chocolate, and cola.
Food Category | Foods Recommended | Foods to Avoid |
---|---|---|
Grains |
|
|
Vegetables | All | None |
Fruits | All | None |
Milk |
| Most, including:
|
Meats and Beans |
|
|
Fats and Oils | All | None |
Snacks, Sweets, and Condiments |
|
|
Beverages | Most beverages |
|
Other | Non-dairy creamer |
|
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Dietitians of Canada
http://www.dietitians.ca/
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
http://www.kidney.ca/
References:
American Dietetic Association. Nutrition Care Manual website. Available at: http://www.nutritioncaremanual.org. Accessed January 20, 2010.
National Kidney Foundation website. Available at: http://www.kidney.org/. Accessed January 21, 2010.
Last reviewed January 2010 by Maria Adams, MS, MPH, RD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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