Walnut vs Cashew: Which Is Better for Kidneys?

For a kidney-friendly diet the question is mineral load: Walnut is Limit, Cashew is Limit. The biggest gap is Sodium — Cashew sits at 2% of the daily limit versus 2% for Walnut.

Walnut
Limit Cashew
Limit

Phosphorus

209 mg

21%

209 mg

21%

Sodium

37 mg

Potassium

551 mg

28%

551 mg

28%

See Walnut details See Cashew details

Frequently asked questions

Which has more sodium, walnut or cashew?

Per 100 g, walnut contains 37 mg and cashew contains 37 mg of sodium.

Is walnut or cashew better for kidney disease?

Based on CKD stage 3-4 daily limits, walnut is rated limit and cashew is rated limit. Ratings reflect mineral load per 100 g only — individual advice should come from your healthcare team.

What is the main difference for a CKD diet?

The largest difference is sodium: cashew sits at 2% of the daily limit versus 2% for walnut. See each food page for the full mineral profile.