Can I Eat Cheese if My Potassium Is High? A Guide to Safe Dairy Choices

For those managing high potassium levels, also known as hyperkalemia, dietary choices can be challenging, but it's a misconception that all dairy is off-limits. The question, "Can I eat cheese if my potassium is high?" is often met with confusion, but with careful selection and portion control, it's possible to enjoy certain cheeses as part of a low-potassium diet.

Quick Summary

Most people with high potassium can eat certain types of cheese in moderation by focusing on low-potassium varieties and being mindful of portion sizes, sodium, and phosphorus levels.

Key Points

• Check with a Dietitian: It is crucial to consult with a renal dietitian or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet to ensure it is appropriate for your specific condition.

• Choose Low-Potassium Cheeses: Opt for soft goat cheese, feta, Swiss, or mozzarella, as these are generally lower in potassium.

• Be Mindful of Processed Cheeses: Avoid processed cheeses and cheese spreads, as they often contain higher levels of sodium, phosphorus additives, and sometimes potassium chloride.

• Practice Portion Control: Stick to small, measured portions (about one ounce) to manage your overall intake of potassium, sodium, and phosphorus.

• Consider Other Factors: When selecting cheese, remember to also monitor sodium and phosphorus levels, especially if managing kidney disease.

• Maximize Flavor with Less: Use stronger-flavored cheeses, like sharp cheddar or feta, in smaller quantities to enhance dishes without adding excess potassium.

Understanding High Potassium (Hyperkalemia)

Potassium is a vital mineral that helps regulate heart function, muscle contractions, and nerve signaling. However, for individuals with certain health conditions, particularly kidney disease, blood potassium levels can become too high, a condition known as hyperkalemia. The kidneys are typically responsible for filtering excess potassium from the blood, so when they don't function properly, potassium can accumulate. Managing a low-potassium diet becomes a crucial part of treatment, leading many to scrutinize every food item, including cheese.

The Potassium Content of Cheese

While dairy products like milk and yogurt can be moderate to high in potassium, many cheeses are generally lower in potassium, especially when consumed in controlled portions. However, the potassium content can vary significantly depending on the type of cheese, and other factors like added ingredients can impact the overall mineral profile. Most cheese, on average, provides a relatively small amount of potassium per ounce, but it is important to choose wisely to stay within dietary limits.

Low-Potassium Cheese Options

For those on a potassium-restricted diet, opting for specific varieties can allow you to enjoy cheese without worry. Some of the lowest potassium cheeses are soft and fresh types.

• Goat Cheese (Chèvre): Known for its distinct flavor, soft goat cheese is one of the lowest potassium options available.
• Feta: This tangy cheese is also very low in potassium, making it a great addition to salads or other dishes.
• Fontina: A semi-soft Italian cheese that provides a low potassium count per serving.
• Brie: Another soft cheese that is relatively low in potassium.
• Cream Cheese & Neufchatel: These soft, spreadable cheeses are low in potassium and can be used in moderation.
• Swiss Cheese: A popular cheese with a low potassium content.
• Monterey Jack & Muenster: These semi-soft cheeses also tend to have low potassium counts.
• Mozzarella: A versatile, low-potassium choice, especially the part-skim variety.

High-Potassium Cheeses to Limit

Certain dairy items and cheeses should be limited or avoided if your potassium levels are high. These can include:

• Cottage Cheese: While a good source of protein, half a cup of regular cottage cheese has a higher potassium content than many hard cheeses and should be monitored carefully. Salt-free versions may be lower in sodium, but potassium can remain a concern. Always check the label.
• Processed Cheese: Many processed cheese products, like cheese spreads or canned cheese, often contain higher levels of sodium and phosphate additives, which are a concern for kidney health. In some cases, potassium chloride is added to low-sodium varieties, further increasing their potassium load.
• Certain Dairy-Based Products: Other dairy items like yogurt and milk can be higher in potassium and should be consumed in limited quantities as part of a low-potassium diet.

Comparison of Common Cheeses

This table provides an overview of the potassium, sodium, and phosphorus content in different cheeses, helping you make informed decisions. Values are approximate per 1-ounce (30g) serving.

Cheese Type	Potassium (mg)	Sodium (mg)	Phosphorus (mg)
Goat Cheese (soft)	~7	~130	~72
Feta	~19	~275	~101
Swiss Cheese	~23	~21	~170
Mozzarella (part-skim)	~27	~106	~105
Brie	~46	~188	~56
Cream Cheese	~40	~108	~32
Ricotta (1/4 cup)	~69	~55	~104
Cottage Cheese (1/2 cup)	~149	~368	~179

Other Important Considerations

Beyond potassium, it is important to consider other nutrients in cheese, especially for those with kidney disease.

• Sodium: Many cheeses are high in sodium, which can increase fluid retention and blood pressure. Opt for lower-sodium varieties or use strong-flavored cheeses like feta or sharp cheddar in smaller quantities.
• Phosphorus: Dairy products, including cheese, are typically high in phosphorus. For individuals with kidney disease, managing phosphorus intake is just as important as managing potassium. Some cheeses, like cream cheese and brie, are lower in phosphorus.
• Additives: Check the ingredient list for added potassium chloride, which is sometimes used as a salt substitute in low-sodium products, as well as phosphate additives. These should be avoided on a restricted diet.
• Portion Control: Even with low-potassium options, moderation is key. A single serving is typically considered one ounce, or about the size of a matchbox.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Cheese Safely

Incorporating cheese into your low-potassium diet doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some actionable tips:

• Measure Portions: Stick to the recommended serving size of one ounce to keep your intake in check.
• Use Stronger Flavors: Choose a cheese with a strong flavor, like a sharp cheddar or aged parmesan, so you can use a smaller amount to get the desired taste.
• Grate It: Grating cheese over dishes, rather than using large slices, can distribute the flavor more effectively, allowing you to use less.
• Check Labels: Always read the nutrition label and ingredient list for potassium, sodium, and phosphorus content, as well as any additives.
• Consult a Professional: A renal dietitian is the best resource for creating a personalized meal plan that incorporates cheese safely.

Conclusion

While a high potassium diagnosis might seem like a permanent farewell to cheese, the answer to "Can I eat cheese if my potassium is high?" is a reassuring yes—with careful consideration. By prioritizing low-potassium varieties like goat cheese, feta, and Swiss, practicing portion control, and being mindful of other minerals like sodium and phosphorus, you can safely enjoy cheese as part of your diet. Always consult with a healthcare provider or renal dietitian to determine the best approach for your specific health needs.

Managing Hyperkalemia with Dietary Changes - RACGP

References

• DaVita. (2017). Best Cheese Choices for a Kidney Diet. Available at: https://davita.com/diet-nutrition/kidney-diet-tips/best-cheese-choices-kidney-diet/
• National Kidney Foundation. (2010). Potassium. Available at: https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/02-10-0410_EBB_Potassium.pdf
• Kidney Community Kitchen. (2023). How to Enjoy Cheese on a CKD Diet. Available at: https://www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca/dietitians-blog/how-to-enjoy-cheese-on-a-ckd-diet/
• National Kidney Foundation. (2023). Low Phosphorus Cheese. Available at: https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/low-phosphorus-cheese
• MyHealth Alberta. (n.d.). Potassium-Restricted Diet: Care Instructions. Available at: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh3997
• SingleCare. (2025). High potassium foods to avoid for kidney health. Available at: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/high-potassium-foods-to-avoid/
• WebMD. (2025). Hyperkalemia Diet Changes to Lower Your Potassium Level. Available at: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperkalemia-diet-changes
• Cambridge University Hospitals. (2022). Potassium lowering dietary advice. Available at: https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/patient-information/potassium-lowering-dietary-advice/
• DaVita. (2011). Selecting the Best Cheese for a Kidney Diet. Available at: https://davita.com/diet-nutrition/kidney-diet-tips/selecting-the-best-cheese-for-a-kidney-diet/
• Plant-Powered Kidneys. (2021). Is Cheese High in Potassium? Protein, Phosphorus, and more!. Available at: https://www.plantpoweredkidneys.com/potassium-in-cheese/
• KidneyWise. (2025). Which cheese is good for kidney disease?. Available at: https://kidneywise.co.uk/blog/which-cheese-is-good-for-kidney-disease
• Kidney Community Kitchen. (2023). How to Enjoy Cheese on a CKD Diet. Available at: https://www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca/dietitians-blog/how-to-enjoy-cheese-on-a-ckd-diet/
• National Kidney Foundation. (2023). Low Phosphorus Cheese. Available at: https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/low-phosphorus-cheese
• Plant-Powered Kidneys. (2021). Is Cheese High in Potassium? Protein, Phosphorus, and more!. Available at: https://www.plantpoweredkidneys.com/potassium-in-cheese/

Frequently Asked Questions

Which types of cheese are safest to eat with high potassium?

The safest cheese options for a low-potassium diet include soft goat cheese, feta, Swiss cheese, and mozzarella. These varieties contain some of the lowest amounts of potassium per serving.

Can I eat cottage cheese if my potassium is high?

Cottage cheese can be higher in potassium than other cheeses. A half-cup of regular cottage cheese contains a moderate amount of potassium, so portion control is especially important. Always check the nutrition label for exact amounts.

Why do some low-sodium cheeses have high potassium?

Some low-sodium cheeses, especially processed types, replace sodium chloride with potassium chloride to maintain flavor. If you have high potassium, it is important to check the ingredient list and avoid cheeses containing potassium chloride.

Is cheese a significant source of potassium?

Compared to high-potassium fruits and vegetables, most cheeses are not a primary source of potassium. However, the mineral content can vary, and portion control is necessary to keep overall intake within recommended limits.

How can I reduce the sodium in cheese?

To reduce sodium intake from cheese, you can choose low-sodium varieties or opt for stronger-flavored cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or feta, which allow you to use a smaller portion to achieve the same taste.

What is a safe portion size for cheese on a low-potassium diet?

A typical recommended portion size for cheese on a low-potassium diet is about one ounce (30g), or the size of a matchbox. This helps manage potassium, sodium, and phosphorus intake.

What other nutrients should I consider in cheese besides potassium?

For those with kidney concerns, monitoring phosphorus and sodium levels in cheese is also crucial. Many cheeses are high in both, so selecting low-sodium and low-phosphorus varieties (like cream cheese, brie, or mozzarella) is beneficial.