O is for Onion–low in potassium, high in flavor for your kidney diet

      Regardless of if you consider it a seasoning, a vegetable serving or a sandwich topper, onions are one of the most versatile vegetables included in a kidney friendly diet.

Onions are low in sodium, potassium and phosphorus, regardless of the color or variety.

• One 1/4-inch slice from a large onion contains 2 mg sodium, 55 mg potassium and 11 mg phosphorus.
• ½ cup chopped, raw onion contains 3 mg sodium, 117 mg potassium and 23 mg phosphorus.
• ½ cup chopped raw scallions, tops and bulb contains 8 mg sodium, 138 mg potassium and 18 mg phosphorus.
• ½ cup tiny whole onions, boiled contains 8 mg sodium, 106 mg potassium and 2 mg phosphorus.

Health benefits of the onion comes from plant chemicals  such as flavonoids, phenols and quercetin, which are associated with anti-inflammatory and  antioxidant actions, cholesterol lowering and cancer protection.
Add a punch of healthy onion flavor to your kidney diet by trying some of these ideas:

• Sauté chopped onion in olive oil to add to vegetables, soups, casseroles and meat dishes
• Serve sliced raw onion on sandwiches, burgers and salads
• Caramelize onions to top cooked meats or make onion soup
• Make onion rings
• Mix onion pieces in with bell peppers, mushrooms and zucchini to roast in the oven or cook on the grill
• Use powdered or minced onion to flavor any savory dish
• Serve fresh green onions on the side to compliment any meat or poultry dish
• Make pickled onions by marinating thin slices in vinegar with a little sweetener if desired.

DaVita.com has over 600 kidney-friendly recipes. Here are some low potassium, low phosphorus, low sodium recipes that use onions to boost flavor:

• Apple Onion Omelet
• Italian Beef with Peppers and Onions
• It’s Better than Potato Salad
• Nicaraguan Beef Tenderloins
• Mahi Fish on the Green
• Spicy Bell Pepper Medley
• Veggie Strata

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.