5 Foods to Avoid if You Have Kidney Cancer

For individuals living with kidney cancer, limiting the consumption of foods high in salt, alcohol, and highly processed foods can help protect kidney function and improve overall well-being during treatment.

According to Healthline , while there is no specific dietary plan for kidney cancer patients, maintaining good eating habits plays a critical role. Certain foods can worsen kidney function or interfere with treatment, so knowing what to avoid is crucial to feeling better day-to-day.

Here are five foods kidney cancer patients should avoid or limit:

1. Salt-high foods

Excessive salt can disrupt the fluid balance in your body and contribute to high blood pressure, which can worsen kidney dysfunction . Foods high in salt, such as fast food, salty snacks like potato chips, and processed deli meats like salami, should be avoided.

While cooking, season your meals with herbs and spices rather than salt. However, be sure to check with your doctor before using any unconventional herbs to ensure they are safe.

Potato chips on a tray. Illustration photo by Pexels

2. Foods high in phosphorus

Phosphorus is essential for bone health and other bodily functions, but excessive phosphorus can weaken bones and cause other complications in those with reduced kidney function. If your doctor has raised concerns about your phosphorus levels, consider limiting these phosphorus-rich foods: cocoa, beans, processed bran cereals, certain dairy products, oysters .

3. Overhydration

Staying hydrated is important, but people with kidney cancer may experience fluid retention, especially if kidney function is compromised. Monitoring fluid intake is essential to avoid overhydration, which can overwhelm the kidneys.

While general advice suggests drinking eight glasses of water a day, individual needs vary based on age, climate, physical activity, and health conditions, per the U.S. National Kidney Foundation . Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals may also have different hydration requirements. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate amount of water for you.

4. Highly processed foods and beverages

A 2018 study found that consuming ultra-processed foods can increase cancer risk by 10%. Additionally, diets low in quality have been linked to higher mortality risks. It is advisable to limit packaged bread and snacks, sodas and sweetened drinks, meats preserved with nitrates, instant noodles and soups, and frozen or shelf-stable ready meals in your daily diet.

These foods are often low in nutritional value and may contribute to cancer progression or interfere with your treatment.

5. Alcohol

Although moderate alcohol consumption may be acceptable for some individuals, it is crucial to note that alcohol can interact negatively with cancer treatments and medications. There is also evidence suggesting that alcohol may increase the risk of cancer recurrence and affect the mortality rate in individuals with existing cancer. Therefore, limiting or avoiding alcohol is recommended for kidney cancer patients.