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Phosphorus is essential for the human body, it is in fact one of the most widely found mineral in the body. The mineral is present in huge quantities in bones and teeth. It is required for our growth, repair and maintenance. Phosphorus also helps the kidney in removing body waste. Almost all the food that we consume on a daily basis contains some amount of phosphorus in it. However like every other mineral, too much of phosphorus is not good for your health especially if you have kidney problems. It is the kidneys that regulate that level of phosphorus in your body. Once you have a kidney disease, the level of phosphorus might start increasing in your blood and soft tissue (because kidney is no longer able to discard the excess phosphorus out of the body). The increased phosphorus will eventually decrease the calcium levels which can lead to bone problems.

Normal healthy individuals can consume 700-800 milligrams of phosphorus everyday however for those with kidney problems; the limit should not exceed 400 milligrams per day. It is important to monitor your kidney functions yearly especially when are over 45 years of age. Those with kidney disease should get these tests done more frequently. This will help in giving a clear picture of kidney’s health status. People with chronic kidney disease should also get their “Serum Phosphorus” level measured after every few months.

Here’s a list of food items that are rich in phosphorus and should be avoided by patients with kidney diseases:
-Dairy Products: Milk is rich in phosphorus and hence patients with kidney diseases should use unfortified milk instead. As another alternative to milk, you can also use low fat cottage cheese. Other than milk, dairy products like ice cream, curd etc. should be avoided too.
-Meat: Lean and Red meat is protein rich also rich in phosphorus.
-Wholegrain & Nuts: Cereal, pasta, rice, wholegrain bread contain lot of phosphorus. Kidney patients should instead eat refined grains like white bread etc. Also cut down on biscuits, waffles & muffins. Nuts like cashews, almonds should be avoided.
-Colas and aerated drinks: Have ice tea and fresh lime instead of soda, beer and coke.
-Beans & Peas: Lentils, peas and beans (black, kidney etc.) should not be consumed by patients with chronic kidney disease.

People with kidney problems should always take care of the phosphorus level in their food. So before you start the medication for your kidney make sure you are following a low-phosphorus diet.