In the early stages of kidney disease you should follow a healthy balanced diet as described in the Eatwell Guide : Eatwell Guide - Food and nutrition (nhsinform.scot)
What can I eat?

Eatwell Guide
Diet and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) video
This video describes the dietary changes that may be required along your CKD journey:
Poor appetite
As kidney disease progresses you may find your appetite decreases. A ‘little and often’ approach may work for you e.g. 3 small meals and 3 snacks per day if you can’t manage larger portions. Choose high energy snacks such as cheese on crackers. If poor appetite is a problem for you, please ask your doctor or nurse to refer you to a kidney dietitian. Some poor appetite guidance can be found here: Kidney Patient Guide - The link between diet and how you feel
Weight management
Some people with CKD maintain a good appetite. However, some of these people make poor food choices leading to excessive weight gain. This can contribute to progression of CKD and it can negatively impact access to kidney replacement treatments such as kidney transplant later on. If you would like support to achieve a healthy weight you can ask to be referred to Glasgow Weight management Services OR you can self-refer, see instructions via this link Referral - NHSGGC
Diabetes and Kidney Disease
Recipes
Kidney Kitchen UK have many kidney friendly recipes available for you to try: Kidney Kitchen | Kidney Care UK
Editorial Information
Last reviewed: 17/06/2025
Next review date: 30/06/2026
Author(s): Ms Angela Doherty, Renal App Team.
Version: 1.0
Reviewer name(s): Renal App Team.