A proper diet routine, along with other treatment procedures as recommended by the doctor, is essential to manage the side effects of kidney cancer. What you eat affects the health of the organ, which is why following a proper diet to manage kidney cancer becomes all the more important.

The foods to eat
A diet to manage kidney cancer usually includes lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, beans, and other healthy foods that help the body fight the disease. The nutritional needs will, however, depend on the stage of cancer and the treatment. Here are some foods that can be included in your diet.

• Fruits and vegetables
  At least five portions of fruits and vegetables should be consumed every day. These have essential vitamins and minerals and are also high in soluble fiber.
• Whole grains and starches
  Whole grains such as whole wheat, lentils, and pulses are high in insoluble fiber, which is vital for the digestive system for patients with kidney cancer. Starchy foods like rice, cereals, and whole wheat bread are excellent sources of the energy and B vitamins required to increase the rate of metabolism.
• Unsaturated fats
  Vegetable and seed oils, nuts, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, and avocados contain essential fatty acids like omega 3 that cannot be made by the body.

Foods not to eat
The foods mentioned below should be excluded from the diets to manage kidney cancer.

• Proteins
  Protein is essential for the body, but consuming a high-protein diet for patients with kidney cancer can put stress on the organ. Consult your doctor about the type of proteins and the right amounts to be included in your meals.
• Foods high in salt
  Kidney function can worsen by consuming high-salt foods. Processed foods are rich in sodium and it is best to avoid canned foods, salty snacks, fast food, and deli meats accordingly.
• Foods high in phosphorus
  People suffering from kidney cancer should avoid or reduce the intake of high-phosphorus foods such as seeds, nuts, beans, and processed cereals. As kidneys do not work at full capacity due to the condition, eating a phosphorus-rich diet can cause a build-up in the bloodstream and lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, fatigue, itchiness, and joint pain.
• Foods high in potassium
  Avocado, broccoli, apricots, potatoes, and bananas are some of the potassium-rich foods that can complicate kidney cancer. Excess potassium can be difficult for the kidneys to excrete as waste, causing heart problems that can further complicate kidney cancer.
• Foods high in oxalate
  Oxalate is a chemical compound commonly found in dark leafy vegetables, beets, tea, and tofu. This compound can affect the health of your kidney and should be avoided.
• Limit the amount of fluids
  Staying hydrated is important, but the consumption of large amounts of fluids can put a strain on your kidneys. The reduced kidney function can cause the body to retain fluids, which is why it is essential to be mindful of the same.

Consult your doctor to find out a suitable diet for you, which will be planned depending on the presence of other medical conditions such as diabetes and chronic heart disease. Following a nutritional diet to manage kidney cancer will help your body adequately respond to medication and recover faster.