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Is white rice OK for kidneys?

Most people in the early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) don't have problems with mineral balance, and can include all types of rice. For people who are limiting phosphorus and potassium in their diet, white or wild rice is recommended over brown rice, because brown rice is rich in these minerals.

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Rice is a great choice for the kidney diet—it provides energy and is low in minerals of concern for people with kidney disease or those on dialysis.

Rice on a kidney diet

White rice is by far the most popular rice because it's more tender than brown or wild rice, and the subtle flavor complements other ingredients in a dish. Most people in the early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) don't have problems with mineral balance, and can include all types of rice. For people who are limiting phosphorus and potassium in their diet, white or wild rice is recommended over brown rice, because brown rice is rich in these minerals. However, brown rice can be eaten on a dialysis diet with attention to portion, and balanced with other foods to avoid an excessive intake of potassium or phosphorus. Your dietitian can advise you on the best rice to eat for your needs.

Here are 4 easy ways to cook rice:

Electric rice cookers: Simply add one-part rice to two-parts water and push the timer to start the cooking process. The cooker is self-timed and will turn off once the rice is cooked. Stovetop: To boil rice, use a heavy pot, and add two cups of water for each cup of rice unless the package instructs otherwise. Bring the rice and water to a boil, cover it with a lid and reduce to a simmer for 12 minutes. Once your rice is cooked tender and water is absorbed, fluff it with a fork and let it sit for five minutes before serving. Do not remove the lid or stir rice during cooking. Oven: Heat the oven to 350º F. In a Dutch oven or oven-proof dish, heat rice and a tablespoon of cooking oil over stovetop and stir for 1-2 minutes. Add two cups of water for each cup of rice in the dish and bring to a boil. Cover the dish and place it in the oven for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff rice and let it stand for five minutes before serving. Microwave: Place two-parts water to one-part rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe plastic cover or vented plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 12 minutes, then let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Microwave rice cookers are also available. If your cooked rice is too soggy, try using less water next time. If it's too dry, add 1/4-1/2 cup more water and cook a little longer. Experiment until you get it right. If you live at altitude, you may need to cook rice for a longer period of time than directed on the packaging. Rice cooked in broth or with added seasonings may be preferred, but keep it kidney-friendly by choosing low-or reduced-sodium broth or bouillon without potassium chloride. Choose fresh or dried herbs and spices or salt-free seasoning blends. Seasoned rice mixes are quite popular, but for anyone with high blood pressure or kidney disease, the sodium content is too high. Food safety is important when storing leftover rice. Dry rice may contain spores produced by toxin-producing bacteria called Bacillus cereus. It can cause food poisoning if contaminated rice sits at room temperature too long. Once cooked rice cools, store unused portion in a shallow, covered container in the refrigerator.

Try these kidney-friendly recipes from DaVita dietitians:

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What color is perfect urine?

The most optimal color for your urine is a pale yellow. If it is a darker yellow or orange, it can mean you are becoming dehydrated. An orange urine could indicate a serious liver condition. Darker brown can be caused by foods or medication.

It’s OK … we all do it. Look before you flush. Believe it or not, the color and consistency of your urine can say a lot about your health.

Health Clues From Color

The most optimal color for your urine is a pale yellow. If it is a darker yellow or orange, it can mean you are becoming dehydrated. An orange urine could indicate a serious liver condition. Darker brown can be caused by foods or medication. Cloudy urine can indicate the presence of phosphates which can lead to kidney stones. Urine that’s consistently foamy and frothy suggests a possible kidney issue. Never ignore a bright red urine. That can signal a bladder or kidney issue that needs a doctor’s attention.

Is it a UTI?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) may also cause an abnormal appearance of the urine such as cloudiness, brown or red color, or an unusual smell. A UTI is nearly always accompanied by symptoms such as: needing to urinate more than normal, an intense feeling of needing to urinate, pain or burning with urination, or lower abdominal pain/discomfort. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Cloudy or smelly urine by themselves should not be interpreted as indicators of a UTI.

An Important Test

When you go to the doctor, he or she may ask you to take a urinalysis. That test allows providers to see just what’s indicated by your urine. Methodist Physicians Clinic Regency family medicine provider Dr. Jeffrey Jenkins tells us more about what a urinalysis may indicate.

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