Revisited lasagna, plenty of fish and meat, paying attention to portions and the use of lean cuts. But above all: avoid cold cuts, cured meats, cheeses and dried fruit, rich in salt, phosphorus and potassium. This is the kidney-proof Christmas menu curated by Claudia D’Alessandro, dietitian nutritionist at the Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit of the Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine of the University of Pisa.
as per tradition, the pasta first course cannot be missed. Though, to protect the health of the kidneys D’Alessandro recommends a ‘lasagne review’: prepare a béchamel sauce with vegetable milk, such as rice milk or low-protein milk to replace ordinary milk, to reduce the protein content and phosphorus. This is a suitable measure both in the conservative phase and in dialysis.The meat to be used for the ragù could be boiled previously; a procedure that reduces the phosphorus content. In this way the meat is certainly less tasty, so it is suggested to add a good tomato sauce and herbs. For the pasta we recommend using a non-protein lasagna format for those on conservative therapy; you can instead use common pasta for those on dialysis. Another tip from the dietitian nutritionist: it is indeed better to avoid parmesan cheese, which is very rich in phosphorus, in patients with kidney failure. Once the ingredients are assembled, the final product is still pleasant.If you really can’t do without it, just for Christmas, dialysis patients are advised to consult their nephrologist and evaluate the opportunity to use a phosphorus chelator.
Free choice of second course, both meat and fish, with attention to portions and the use of lean cuts of meat. As for the side dish, for the expert it is better to prefer the consumption of cooked vegetables boiled and then sautéed in a pan with extra virgin olive oil and herbs, or sautéed in the oven: boiling eliminates potassium and salts. Not only that, for dialysis patients: eliminate excess fluids. One final recommendation: avoid cold cuts, cured meats, cheeses and dried fruit, which are rich in salt, phosphorus and potassium.
What are some kidney-amiable alternatives to customary holiday dishes?
Interview with Claudia D’Alessandro: Crafting a Kidney-Proof Christmas Menu
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Claudia D’Alessandro, esteemed dietitian nutritionist at the Nephrology, Dialysis, and Transplant Unit of the University of Pisa. With the holiday season approaching, many people are concerned about how to enjoy festive meals while being mindful of kidney health. Can you share some insights into your kidney-proof Christmas menu?
Claudia D’Alessandro: Thank you for having me. It’s very vital for individuals with kidney issues to celebrate without compromising their health. the focus should be on thoughtful ingredient choices that minimize phosphorus, potassium, and sodium, without sacrificing flavor.
Time.news Editor: Let’s start with the iconic first course: lasagna.How can we enjoy this traditional dish while keeping it kidney-friendly?
Claudia D’Alessandro: Great question! For a kidney-proof lasagna,I recommend a few modifications. first, prepare the béchamel using vegetable milk, such as rice milk or low-protein milk, which significantly lowers the protein content and phosphorus levels. This variation not onyl helps those in the conservative phase but also benefits dialysis patients.
Time.news Editor: That’s a valuable tip! What about the meat component in the lasagna—how should it be prepared?
Claudia D’Alessandro: For the ragù, it’s advisable to boil the meat beforehand. This method reduces phosphorus, making it a better option for those managing kidney disease.To ensure it still has flavor, use a rich tomato sauce and add various herbs for enhancement.
Time.news Editor: And for the pasta itself? Are there specific types better suited for those with kidney concerns?
Claudia D’Alessandro: Indeed! I suggest using a non-protein lasagna format for those on conservative therapy. However, patients on dialysis can enjoy regular pasta. Just remember to limit portion sizes to avoid overloading the kidneys.
Time.news Editor: Cheese is often central to lasagna. what’s your stance on using cheeses like parmesan?
Claudia D’Alessandro: Parmesan cheese is high in phosphorus, which can be problematic for renal patients. I recommend avoiding it. If someone absolutely wants it for the holidays, consulting a nephrologist for the potential use of a phosphorus chelator could be an option, but it should be carefully considered.
Time.news Editor: Moving on to the second course. What options do you recommend for meat and fish?
Claudia D’Alessandro: The second course can be flexible—both meat and fish are suitable as long as they are lean cuts and portion sizes are managed.It’s crucial to maintain a balanced approach to the main protein source while being mindful of other dietary restrictions.
Time.news Editor: Engaging! Are there specific cooking methods you suggest for the side dishes?
Claudia D’Alessandro: Yes! I recommend opting for cooked vegetables, which can be boiled and then sautéed in extra virgin olive oil and herbs. This method not only enhances taste but also helps eliminate excess potassium and salts, which is vital for dialysis patients.
Time.news Editor: are there any common holiday foods that you advise against for kidney patients?
Claudia D’Alessandro: Definitely. It’s best to avoid cold cuts, cured meats, cheeses, and dried fruit as they are typically high in salt, phosphorus, and potassium.These items can pose significant challenges for kidney health, especially during the festive season.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Claudia, for these invaluable insights on crafting a kidney-proof Christmas menu. Your advice will certainly help many enjoy the holiday season safely.
Claudia D’Alessandro: It was my pleasure! Simple modifications can make a big difference, allowing everyone to enjoy their holiday meals while staying mindful of their health. Happy holidays!
This engaging interview emphasizes the importance of thoughtful dietary choices for kidney health, providing readers with actionable advice in a festive context while optimizing for search engine visibility.