Is it okay to include nuts and seeds in my CKD diet, and how do I control portion sizes?-Podcast

RDHQ Podcast Is it okay to include nuts and seeds in my CKD diet, and how do I control portion sizes?

If you’ve been diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), you might be wondering: “Can I include nuts and seeds in my diet?” The good news is—yes, you can! But as with many things in a kidney-friendly diet, portion control and awareness of phosphorus are key.

Let’s break it down.

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1. Nutritional Benefits of Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are often considered superfoods for good reason. They’re packed with:

Healthy fats
Dietary fiber
Plant-based protein

These nutrients support heart health, digestion, and overall well-being. So even for those with CKD, they can be a nutritious addition to meals and snacks—as long as you're mindful of portions.

2. Why Phosphorus Matters for Kidney Health

While nuts and seeds offer plenty of benefits, they also naturally contain phosphorus—a mineral that people with CKD need to watch closely.

High phosphorus levels can be tough on the kidneys and lead to complications like:

Weak bones
Itchy skin
Heart problems

But not all phosphorus is the same—and that’s where things get interesting.

3. Not All Phosphorus Is Absorbed the Same Way

Here’s the key insight: The phosphorus found naturally in nuts and seeds isn’t absorbed by your body as easily as the phosphorus additives in processed foods.

That’s because plant-based phosphorus is bound to something called phytates, which your body can’t break down easily. As a result, you only absorb about 30–50% of the phosphorus from nuts and seeds.

In contrast, phosphorus additives (found in many processed foods) are almost completely absorbed—making them a bigger concern for kidney health.

4. Should You Avoid Nuts and Seeds Entirely?

No, you don’t have to avoid them!
In fact, including small amounts of nuts and seeds in your CKD diet can offer variety, flavor, and nutrition—without significantly raising your phosphorus intake.

The secret? Portion control.

5. Portion Guidelines for CKD-Friendly Snacking

To keep your phosphorus levels in check while enjoying the benefits of nuts and seeds, stick to:

A small handful of nuts (~1 ounce or 28 grams)
2 tablespoons of nut butter

This keeps your serving size manageable and helps you get the most nutrition without overloading your kidneys.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Nuts and Seeds—Mindfully

Nuts and seeds can be a delicious, healthy part of a kidney-conscious diet. They’re full of nutrients and fiber—but like anything with CKD, moderation is key.

By choosing the right portion sizes and being mindful of phosphorus sources, you can still enjoy these foods as part of your daily meals.