A Kidney-Friendly Halloween

Halloween is almost here, and for people managing kidney disease, a bowl full of candy can raise a few extra questions.

The good news is that enjoying a Halloween treat may still be possible. The key is remembering that not all candy is nutritionally the same, and individual needs can vary depending on a person’s kidney function, medications, blood sugar, and treatment plan.

Some candies contain more phosphorus, potassium, or sodium than others. Chocolate and nut-based candies, for example, may contain higher amounts of phosphorus and potassium, while certain hard candies and gummies may be lower in those nutrients. DaVita offers a helpful guide to kidney-friendly Halloween treats that compares different types of candy and offers tips for reading nutrition and ingredient labels.

Portion size matters, too. Even a candy that fits within a kidney-friendly eating plan can add up quickly when several pieces are eaten at once. People who are also managing diabetes may have additional considerations related to sugar and blood glucose.

Most importantly, there is no single “kidney diet” that works for everyone. Nutrition needs can change over time and may differ considerably from one patient to another. A kidney dietitian or kidney care team can help determine what foods and treats fit an individual plan.

For kidney patients Halloween does not necessarily have to mean skipping the candy bowl altogether. With a little planning and guidance from a kidney care team, there may still be room for a favorite treat.

For more ideas, explore DaVita’s kidney-friendly Halloween recipes and resources.