Kidney Diet Tips

Independence Day Favorite Recipes

Are you staying home on Independence Day this year? With July 4th falling on a Wednesday, many people may decide to stay close to home. This means making home-cooked food and joining local friends and neighbors. Wondering what to make? We have some tasty kidney-friendly DaVita recipe suggestions to help with your holiday planning. If you are invited to a friend’s home think about bringing one of these dishes with you.

Appetizers

Keep appetizers easy, and make ahead if possible so you can focus on the main dishes. 

Entrees

Grilled entrees are the most popular for summer socials. We’ve included a few non-grilled recipes in case you prefer cooking in the kitchen. 

Side Dishes

From salads to vegetables, we’ve made kidney-friendly versions of some of the most popular summer sides.  

Desserts

Red, white and blue desserts are a hit for Independence Day. We’ve also included a few other favorites.

Include several of these lower sodium, potassium and phosphorus recipes this Independence Day. Whether you are doing a stay-at-home celebration or visiting away from home, sticking to your kidney diet is easier when you have kidney-friendly foods.

Fluid Tips

In addition to the above recipes, here are some tips to help keep fluids in check if you are on a fluid limit:

  • Stay cool—in the shade, near a fan, or wrap a wet bandana around your neck.
  • Munch on ice slowly instead of drinking liquids to quench your thirst.
  • Skip the higher sodium dishes and condiments that can cause more thirst.
  • Enjoy a few frozen grapes and berries instead of liquids.

Happy Independence Day!

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Consult your physician and dietitian regarding your specific diagnosis, treatment, diet and health questions.

Sara Colman, RDN, CDCES

Sara Colman, RDN, CDCES

Sara is a renal dietitian with over 30 years experience working with people with diabetes and kidney disease. She is co-author of the popular kidney cookbook "Cooking for David: A Culinary Dialysis Cookbook". Sara is the Manager of Kidney Care Nutrition for DaVita. She analyzes recipes and creates content, resources and tools for the kidney community. In her spare time Sara loves to spend time with her young grandson, including fun times together in her kitchen.