This post was written by Kacie Mulligan and edited/reviewed by Bethany Keith MS, RDN, LD, CNSC. Kacie is an undergraduate Food Science and Nutrition student at the University of Maine.

The rise of social media has led to people sharing new recipe trends with strangers across the internet. One social media trend this past year is the increasing popularity of charcuterie boards. Charcuterie boards usually feature a variety of cured meats, cheeses, pickles, fruits, nuts, crackers, breads, and condiments. They are usually designed in a beautiful, aesthetic manner, and then customized with different flavors, textures, and colors. Charcuterie boards are great for gatherings and parties due to how shareable they are.

Unfortunately, many things frequently featured in typical charcuterie boards are not compatible with a kidney-friendly diet. Many cured deli meats, such as salami and ham, contain high levels of sodium. The same is true for many varieties of cheeses or crackers that appear on a typical charcuterie board.

Luckily one of the great things about charcuterie boards is how customizable they are! If you are following a kidney-friendly diet, consider trying these tips when creating your charcuterie board:

-Choose cheeses lower in sodium and phosphorus, such as Swiss, cottage, or cream cheese.

-Pick unsalted or low-sodium pretzels, melba toast, or low-sodium crackers.

-Swap out cured, high sodium deli meats with unprocessed and low-sodium chicken, turkey, or roast beef.

-Add veggies such as celery, bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots that are low in sodium to add color and more nutrients to your board!

-Spread a variety of fruits including blueberries, strawberries, grapes, or apple slices for more vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

-Lastly, you may include hummus or peanut butter for plant-based protein options. Try to monitor portion sizes and choose low-sodium or homemade versions when possible!

Enjoy!

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individuals with polychronic conditions should consult their healthcare team for personalized dietary recommendations based on their specific needs and conditions.