Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA), the nation’s leading network of dialysis facilities, and Chef Aaron McCargo, Jr., star of Food Network’s “Big Daddy’s House,” have partnered to develop healthy cooking tips for dialysis patients as part of FMCNA’s Healthy Lifestyle initiative, aimed at helping people with chronic kidney disease live a better life on dialysis. Chef McCargo developed the "From Bland to Bold: Five Spices to Use Instead of Salt” tips below for dialysis patients, and anyone looking to limit salt-intake. For more information, please visit www.ultracare-dialysis.com.

Fresenius Medical Care Wentzville is located at 1534 W Meyer Rd. For more information on the clinic and local dialysis treatment options, please call 1-888-325-5175. To encourage healthier eating habits during National Kidney Month, Fresenius Medical Care offers the following five tips for using less salt by substituting bold, fresh herbs and spices:

Five Spices to Use Instead of Salt

1. Chili powder* – tastes great in chili or taco meat flavoring. Also try adding it to rubs.

2. Smoked paprika – adds a deep brown color to bread-crumb casserole toppings, barbecue rubs or to seasoning blends for sautéing or searing any proteins. Also adds a great smoky flavor to marinades.

3. Lemon zest – adds a lively taste to bread crumbs, breaded chicken tenders and fish sticks or to renal-friendly vegetables like eggplant or string beans. Also great in dressings and marinades, or mixed with dry spices and used as a rub for broiled or baked seafood.

4. Dried oregano – enhances the flavor of scampi sauces and combines well with lemon zest. Gives steamed vegetables or tossed salads a fresh, earthy taste and aroma. Or add it to fajita seasonings, along with chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and lemon zest.

5. Italian seasoning* – a blend of thyme, oregano, and basil is great for finishing off sauces such as stroganoff or gravies. Works well on baked, grilled, or sautéed proteins with lemon zest and a little oil. Or add it to lemon zest, juice, and olive oil to make dressings or marinade.

* Most brands are salt-free, but check to be sure you’re using a salt-free product.