Myth: People with kidney problems should avoid high potassium foods.

Fact:  Not all people with kidney problems need to reduce high potassium foods in their diet and there is no benefit to reducing the amount of high potassium foods you eat if you do not need to. 

You should follow the guidance of your kidney dietitian or kidney team.

Myth: People with kidney problems can’t eat bananas.

Fact: if you have been advised to eat less potassium-rich food then you should limit bananas to once or twice a week. 

However, if you have not been advised to reduce potassium-rich foods then you can enjoy bananas as part of a healthy balanced diet.

Myth:  I’ve been advised to lower my potassium so I should double boil potatoes.

Fact: This is unnecessary. If you've been advised to eat fewer potassium-rich foods, boiling potatoes once, in plenty of water, is adequate. Just be sure to drain and discard the water.

Myth: Cooking water should be included in my fluid restriction.

Fact: Unless the water is used for a sauce, stock or gravy then it does not need to be included in your fluid allowance. 

Myth: Eating fewer potassium-rich foods can prevent my kidneys from failing.

Fact: You should lower potassium in your diet if you have been advised to by a kidney specialist. Otherwise, you should enjoy a varied and healthy balanced diet, including at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. 

Myth: Eating meals with less potassium is bad for my family.

Fact: If you’re struggling to provide a healthy balanced diet for your family while lowering your potassium, please seek help and support from your kidney dietitian.

Myth: Some salts are healthier than others.

Fact: All of us should be careful about the amount of salt we use, whether it’s sea salt, Himalayan pink salt, celery salt, garlic salt or table salt! Instead, use herbs, spices, lemon and lime juice and vinegar to boost the flavours in your food.