Kidney Friendly Apple Crisp Oatmeal

Choosing what to have for breakfast when you have chronic kidney disease can be challenging. Eggs, oatmeal, bacon, pancakes, french toast... where do you even start? A quick and easy breakfast option that is both kidney friendly and delicious is oatmeal.

Oatmeal is a great choice for those with CKD because it is rich in fiber, which is important for managing blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and overall kidney health. Oatmeal also contains plant based proteins which are beneficial for managing CKD in a healthy way. Sometimes oatmeal gets a bad rap because it can be rather plain tasting. The key to a great tasting, kidney friendly oatmeal is to make it balanced and add tons of flavor! Check out one of my favorite oatmeal recipes, apple crisp oatmeal.

Serving Size: 1 serving

Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients for Apple Crisp Oatmeal

• ¼ cup dry steel cut oats or ½ cup old fashioned oats (you can use whatever you prefer)
• 1 cup of water or non-dairy milk
• Cooking oil spray
• 1 apple, diced
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted or low sodium walnuts
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions for Apple Crisp Oatmeal

1. Prepare oatmeal according to the package using oats and water/non-dairy milk.
2. While your oats are cooking, spray a small saute pan with cooking spray on medium heat. Add your diced apples and cinnamon and cook for about 5 minutes or until the apples are tender and soft. Next, add in your walnuts and mix well.
3. Lastly, once oatmeal is done cooking, pour oatmeal into a bowl. Stir in vanilla extract. Then, top with the apple and walnut mixture. Enjoy!

When making kidney friendly recipes, remember that everyone with chronic kidney disease has different nutrient needs and preferences. Please feel free to add or take away items that do not work for you. For example, if this recipe is too low in protein for you, feel free to add more protein. Keep in mind that what works for someone else might not work for you. You can tailor your meals and snacks to fit what your body needs!

Before making any dietary changes, always consult your healthcare team and/or renal dietitian.