Diet for Hyperkalemia

With hyperkalemia, potassium levels in the blood are elevated, which can strain the heart and muscles. A low-potassium diet is essential. Here you can see which foods are classified as suitable or unsuitable with hyperkalemia.

Allowed Foods (132)

Not Recommended Foods (136)

With Hyperkalemia, 132 foods are currently allowed and 136 foods are not recommended. Check all foods in the interactive tool above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I eat with hyperkalemia?

Low-potassium foods are favorable with hyperkalemia: apples, grapes, rice, pasta, white bread, butter, oils, and most spices. These contain little potassium and can be consumed in normal amounts.

Which foods must I avoid with hyperkalemia?

Foods very high in potassium should be avoided: bananas, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, legumes, nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, and salt substitutes containing potassium chloride. Potassium additives in processed products should also be checked.

Why is hyperkalemia dangerous?

Excessively high potassium levels in the blood can impair heart function and in the worst case lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. People with kidney disease, heart failure, or taking certain medications are particularly at risk.

Can cooking reduce potassium in food?

Yes, soaking and boiling vegetables and potatoes can reduce potassium content by 30 to 50%. Soaking, changing the water multiple times, and discarding the cooking water are established methods to reduce potassium with hyperkalemia.

How can I reduce potassium content in foods?

Soak vegetables and potatoes in water overnight and discard the water. Cooking in plenty of water leaches potassium into the cooking water. Canned vegetables often have less potassium than fresh vegetables.

Which fruits are low in potassium?

Low in potassium are apples, pears, pineapple, watermelon, blueberries, and cranberries. High in potassium and therefore to be limited are bananas, apricots, kiwi, avocado, and dried fruit.