In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), excess salt and fluid can build up in the body.  This can cause swollen ankles, puffiness, a rise in blood pressure and shortness of breath.  Here are some tips on how to reduce the amount of salt in your diet: 

• Use fresh garlic, fresh onion, black pepper or vinegar to season foods.
• Limit use of processed foods.
• When eating out, ask for sauce or gravy on the side. These are usually high in sodium.
• Read food labels and know how much sodium you are allowed per day.

This article originally appeared in the October 2009 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.