PKD Life - Summer 2023 - 7

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Quinoa Salad
PKDLIFE RECIPE
found in processed foods is
absorbed, since they typically
contain phosphate additives. "
Why the big difference? An
antioxidant found in whole
grains, phytic acid, binds
to phosphorus and minimizes
absorption.
Although whole grains
contain potassium, the high
fiber content is an advantage,
Lakhani says. " A high-fiber
diet allows less time for the
body to absorb potassium
from food in the GI tract. "
BENEFITS FOR
PEOPLE WITH PKD
Far from being harmful,
whole grains in your diet
can help improve and maintain
your health if you have
PKD. They can also lower
your risk of developing other
medical conditions. Your
benefits include:
Better heart health.
Whole grains reduce the likelihood
of developing heart
disease and stroke-a crucial
benefit for PKD patients who
are at higher risk of cardiovascular
diseases.
Lower risk of inflammation.
The antioxidants
and fiber in whole grains may
help reduce chronic inflammation,
a common component
of kidney disease.
Controlled blood sugar.
Whole grains are a good
source of complex carbohydrates,
which the body
breaks down more slowly
than refined grains. Complex
carbohydrates help maintain
steady blood sugar levels.
This is important for people
with diabetes and for those
who may have a higher risk
of developing diabetes.
Improved gut health.
Whole grains are a good
source of fiber, which is a
prebiotic that feeds the good
type of bacteria in the gut.
Research suggests that
an imbalance of gut bacteria
may contribute to the progression
of many diseases,
including kidney disease.
GETTING YOUR
WHOLE GRAINS
If you have been avoiding
whole grains, talk to a
registered dietitian who
works with people who
have kidney disease. After
evaluating your lab results,
disease stage, medications,
and other information,
a dietitian can develop a
personalized eating plan
that includes the types and
amount of whole grains that
are best for you.
If your potassium and
phosphorus levels are high,
that doesn't necessarily
mean you can't eat whole
grains. There are other foods
or even medications that are
more likely to be the cause.
" Over almost two decades
of my career, I have yet to
see a patient who has high
potassium or high phosphorus
levels simply from eating
whole grains, " Lakhani
says. " Getting guidance
from a registered dietitian
is key to avoid unnecessary
food restrictions. "
*
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT NUTRITION AND PKD, VISIT PKDCURE.ORG/NUTRITION
7
" Here's a tasty recipe full of whole grains, " says
dietitian Nadiya Lakhani, R.D.N., C.S.R., L.D. " This
dish is high in fiber and plant-based proteins, both
of which are great for people with kidney disease. "
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup quinoa
¼ cup chopped red onion
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
¼ cup chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt-free seasoning and pepper to taste
Quinoa
has twice
the fiber
of other
grains.
DIRECTIONS:
1 Rinse the quinoa in cold water and drain well.
2 In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa
with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce
the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15 to
20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the
water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.
3 In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa,
red onion, parsley, cilantro, mint, and walnuts.
4 In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil,
lemon juice, and seasonings. Pour the dressing
over the quinoa salad and toss to coat.
5 Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before
serving. Makes four 1-cup servings.
Nutrition information per serving:
260 calories; 7 g protein; 24 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat; 15 mg
sodium; 105 mg potassium; 87 mg phosphorus; 4 g fiber.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone living
with PKD. Nutritional requirements can vary by person and change
depending on kidney function. We hope you enjoy this recipe, but
alter the ingredients to meet your specific dietary needs.
MORE RECIPES
Find other PKD-friendly recipes at
pkdcure.org/cookbook.
http://www.pkdcure.org/cookbook http://www.PKDCURE.ORG/NUTRITION
PKD Life - Summer 2023

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