Soups for a Kidney-Friendly Diet

Well, it officially is still cold outside here in Ohio (and from the news, it has snowed last week in Florida, so I guess it must be cold EVERYWHERE!), and the only thing that is keeping me warm is fuzzy socks and bowls of soup! My kiddos even had two extra days off last week because it was too cold to go to school!

Growing up in Arizona, I never made or consumed soup all that often. Now having relocated to Ohio, I see what an essential dinner staple soup is in the cold winter months! (Heck - I have this chili recipe in my crockpot right now!)

When it comes to comforting meals, my clients say soups are often at the top of the list and are often shocked to hear that soups CAN be included in a kidney-friendly diet. There is just one important thing to keep in mind: sodium. Premade, canned, and restaurant soups are notoriously known for being a high sodium food. And what takes it up a sodium notch is what we eat with the soup too (I see you bread and crackers!). That is where homemade soups come into play - they are versatile, delicious and easy to prepare. Below are some tips to help you warm up from the inside out with a nice, hearty bowl of soup.

The Low-Sodium Foundation

One of the most important aspects of a kidney-friendly soup is keeping sodium in check. High sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, fluid retention, and increased strain on the kidneys. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Common High-Sodium Ingredients: Many soup ingredients, like regular broth or stock, bouillon, canned vegetables, processed meats (like ham or sausage), soy sauce, and seasoning blends, can be significant sources of sodium. Be sure to read labels and opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added versions whenever possible.
• Homemade Soups: Making soup at home is one of the easiest ways to control sodium content. Use a low-sodium or no-salt-added broth as your soup base.
• Toppings and Sides: Be cautious with toppings and sides that can add hidden sodium. Crackers, croutons, shredded cheese, or even a slice of bread can significantly increase the sodium content of your meal. Choose unsalted or low-sodium versions, or skip these extras altogether.
• Flavor Boosters: Enhance the taste of your soup without relying on salt by using kidney-friendly herbs and spices like basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, or a splash of lemon juice.

Plant-Based Soups

Soups are an excellent way to fit in more plant-proteins and vegetables to support kidney health. Consider these options:

• Vegetable Soups: Load up on non-starchy, kidney-friendly vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cabbage, and green beans. I absolutely love this Trader Joe’s low sodium tomato and red pepper soup!
• Lentil or Bean Soups: Lentils and beans can be part of a kidney diet when portioned appropriately. Opt for smaller servings, and choose dried or no-salt-added canned varieties. Pair these soups with a whole grain or low-potassium bread for a filling meal.
• Creamy Plant-Based Soups: Traditional creamy soups often rely on high-sodium stocks or dairy. Try blending cooked cauliflower, white beans, or cashews with unsweetened almond milk for a creamy, kidney-friendly base. I love this recipe for Creamy Corn Chowder! Use the above low sodium tips to make slight ingredient swaps for a low sodium option!   

Canned Soups: Quick and Convenient

Canned soups can be a lifesaver on busy days, but they’re often avoided due to their high sodium content. Here’s how to make them work for your kidney diet:

• Check the Label: Look for terms like "low sodium," "reduced sodium," or "no salt added." Try out a few of my favorite low sodium canned soups: Amy’s Lentil Soup, Amy’s Split Pea Soup, or Health Valley’s Vegetable Soup. 
• Add Fresh Ingredients: Stir in fresh or frozen veggies to increase fiber and vitamins. Spinach, kale, and chopped carrots are excellent additions!

Soup can be a warm and nourishing addition to a kidney-friendly diet when made with care. By focusing on low-sodium ingredients, incorporating plant-based options, and making use of homemade or carefully chosen canned soups, you can enjoy a variety of delicious bowls while supporting your kidney health. Experiment with flavors, try new recipes, and savor the comfort of a soup that loves your kidneys as much as you do!