Kidney-Friendly Valentine Treats

Happy Valentine’s Day! A special treat for your sweetie, favorite friend or relative makes Valentine’s Day even more fun. Rather than a box of candy hearts, chocolates or cinnamon red hots, offer treats that are healthy and kidney-friendly. Homemade treats from the kitchen or from your arts and craft table are always treasured.

Some of my treats include:

• Homemade gift certificates with an offer to do something special. Consider a chore, make a meal, run an errand, babysit or share any of your special talents.
• A Valentine’s Day card with a handwritten message. Tell someone why they are so special to you.
• Valentine’s Day breakfast, made with Valentine’s Breakfast Eggs or Stuffed French Toast and a cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
• Red berries  like currants, gooseberries, raspberries and strawberries. For some low potassium berry-delicious recipes check out DaVita’s 7 Valentine’s Day Berry Delights.
• A bouquet of red flowers.

Oh—if you absolutely have to have chocolates follow these guidelines to limit potassium and phosphorus:

• Opt for fresh strawberries partially covered with chocolate instead of chocolate candy.
• Buy chocolate in a the smallest box or package.
• Share with a friend—or several.
• Go for dark chocolates with 70% or higher cocoa content for more antioxidant power.
• Portion matters! Savor one or two pieces of high quality chocolate instead of going for the chocolate bar or bag of miniature chocolate bar treats.
• Don’t go nuts. Even a handful of nuts is packed with potassium and phosphorus. Stick to one small piece if you must have the chocolate covered nuts.

Keep your heart safe and healthy this Valentine’s day!

Additional Kidney Diet Resources

Visit DaVita.com and explore these diet and nutrition resources:

DaVita Food Analyzer

DaVita Dining Out Guides

Today’s Kidney Diet Cookbooks

DaVita Kidney-Friendly Recipes

Diet and Nutrition Articles                                                       

Diet and Nutrition Videos

Kidney Smart® Virtual Classes

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.