I see you.
Your working hard to learn about good nutrition for PKD + making positive changes in your dietary patterns to support kidney health and smaller kidneys. Given all the work you've done, and the changes you have made...the holidays can be a scary time.
Lots of folks I work with are scared to "mess up", get set back or undo all their hard work. Know this, a good diet for PKD does not mean you need to be perfect 100% of the time. Consistency is what matters, and progress is more important than perfection.
You will not hurt your kidneys with one meal, a holiday celebration, or one cookie.
This month’s newsletter is all about giving you permission to enjoy the season—without the fear, guilt, or pressure that so often comes with holiday food. Because none of those serves any of us.
Navigating The Holiday's Food Focus
The holidays bring lots of parties, treats at the office, shared meals, and "special" food with them. Something to look forward to, but all too often something I find my clients fear.
My number one tip for navigating the holidays is to ask yourself these two questions:
1. "What is really important to me"...
What is the one, or even two, things you really look forward to each year, or signals the holidays for you. Maybe it's your mom's mac & cheese, or your sister's chocolate French silk pie (that's mine), or perhaps your brother's once-a-year mashed potatoes. Then give yourself the permission to have it, and enjoy it! It is amazing how freeing this is.
2. "What don't I really care about"...
These are the things that you don't get excited about but somehow end up on your plate. If it's not important and you won't miss it, skip it! Focus on what is important. You won't go wild and crazy this way, but will also enjoy what you have so much more!
Holiday Tips
- 🧂 If you are cooking, keep the salt at a level that is good for you. Guests can add more to their taste.
- 💧 Have a filled water glass at your setting; if it's there, you are more likely to sip on it.
- 🍗 Lower kidney function? If it's important to you, have some turkey or ham - just don't have a HUGE portion.
- ✅ At a party? Do a loop first, see what is there to eat or drink, and then pick what you really want. No need to load up just because...
- 🍽️ Hosting? Make a plan for guests to pack and leave with a to-go box if you don't want a lot of leftovers to tempt you.
- 🥔 When it comes to potatoes and oxalates...peel them to reduce the amount and add a calcium source - hello milk, cheese & sour cream!
Recipe Inspo For You!
Some delish, and seasonal soups to warm you up.
Make sure to check out the notes with tips + Perks for PKD highlights!
From Diana, The PKD Dietitian 💌
Happy Thanksgiving and may it be filled with love, laughter and good food!
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