H is for Herb and Spice Mixtures—a great way to season a kidney diet

Low sodium is one component of the renal diet recommended for people with chronic kidney disease and those on dialysis. Salt is an acquired taste. This means people who follow a low sodium diet can readjust to the flavors in food with very little or no salt over time—but there is an adjustment period. Herb and spice mixtures are a wonderful way to add extra flavor to foods without extra sodium.

Many commercially prepared herb and spice mixtures are available. Mrs. Dash® seasoning blends are readily available in a variety of flavors, and no sodium or potassium is added. Be sure to read labels because some seasoning blends, like Lemon Pepper may contain salt. Other low sodium blends may contain potassium chloride as a replacement for sodium chloride.

Create your own mix of favorite herbs and spices. Place the blend in a shaker on the table so it’s always visible and in reach. Add seasoning blends to marinades, homemade salad dressings and sauces. Sprinkle over meat, poultry or fish before cooking. Add to salads and vegetables for extra flavor.

You can easily make your own herb and spice seasoning blends to help add new flavors to your kidney diet. For best results, crush or grind herbs and spices together before placing in a shaker. For more ideas on using herbs and spices check out DaVita.com’s easy seasoning blends and recipes that incorporate seasoning mixtures.

• Mexican Seasoning
• Basic Meat Coating Mix
• Meat Marinade
• Basic Salad Dressing
• Sara’s Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
• Italian Dressing