Suitable Diet for the Kidneys
Important and Essential Foods for Kidney Health
Each member of the body has a role, or even a group of roles, that it plays to maintain the functioning of the body and ensure its safety and human survival. Some organs may have an essential and indispensable role, such as the heart, for example. But the secondary roles of the remaining members should not be underestimated.
Like the kidneys, for example; They are essential organs that support our health. The kidneys not only remove waste and excess fluid from the blood, but also maintain levels of potassium, sodium, and other essential minerals your body needs to survive. The kidneys also produce hormones that regulate important health factors such as blood pressure and bone strength.
Your diet plays a big role in the health of your organs, along with other lifestyle and health factors. Therefore, you should focus on some foods that do a wonderful job in protecting and enhancing the health of your kidneys.
What do you think about learning about 13 basic types of food, which can be considered essential foods for maintaining kidney health, according to information we obtained from a report published by CNET?
Fatty Fish: Fish provide the body with protein, and when you choose to eat fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, or trout; You also get omega-3 fatty acids. These fats may help reduce levels of fats (triglycerides) in the blood and may lower blood pressure, according to the National Kidney Foundation. If you have chronic kidney disease, you may need to monitor the phosphorus and potassium levels in the fish you choose; Therefore, it is best to consult your doctor in this regard.
Cabbage: or cabbage; This nutrient-rich vegetable is low in potassium and sodium, while containing fiber, vitamins C and K, among others. Plus, cabbage is so versatile. You can use it in green salads, but you can also use it as a wrap for tacos, sandwiches, and more.
Sweet Peppers: Like cabbage, sweet peppers contain many beneficial nutrients with low levels of potassium. From it, you get vitamins B6, B9, C, and K, in addition to fiber. It also contains antioxidants. You can chop sweet peppers and eat them with sauces, or roast them and add them to dinner.
Cranberries: Cranberries help prevent urinary tract infections. These infections usually remain in the bladder, and can spread to the kidneys, making kidney problems worse. Fortunately, eating cranberries regularly can help you avoid this unwanted situation. Additionally, cranberries contain antioxidants that can help fight inflammation, and may promote heart and digestive health.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fatty acids, and it can enhance your general health. A study from Harvard University found that olive oil may reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, and some types of cancer. In addition to all this, olive oil can help you add distinctive flavor to dishes without resorting to salt or butter. To get more beneficial and effective antioxidants, choose unrefined, cold-pressed, virgin, or extra virgin olive oil.
Garlic: Garlic is considered a food rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory, and it also contains a specific compound called allicin. For people with chronic kidney disease, allicin—an active compound found in garlic—is just as effective as prescription medications in protecting kidney health. If you’re looking for the best foods for kidney health, garlic should be on your list. In addition, garlic is an excellent way to add flavor when you’re keen to reduce salt in your food.
Onions: In the same family as garlic, onions provide another excellent, salt-free way to add flavor (and you gain additional benefits if you fry them in olive oil). Onions also provide important nutrients, such as vitamins B6 and C, manganese and copper. Onions also contain quercetin, a chemical that can help your body fight cancer, and organosulfur compounds that can reduce your risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.
Cauliflower: Cauliflower adds a distinctive flavor to food. It contains a lot of vitamins C, B6, B9, and K, in addition to fiber. It also contains compounds that your body can use to neutralize certain toxins – a big help when your kidneys aren’t doing their best filtering job. Cauliflower contains some potassium and phosphorus; So, although it is a beneficial food for the kidneys, people with chronic kidney disease may want to consume it in moderation.
Egg Whites: Egg whites are especially recommended for individuals who suffer from kidney problems. It gives them an ideal way to increase protein levels – which is important in the late stages of chronic kidney disease, especially if they are on dialysis.
Watercress: Watercress contains many nutrients that the body needs, such as magnesium, iron, calcium, and vitamins A, B9, C, and K. In addition, it is rich in antioxidants and contains glucosinolates, which can help your body protect itself from a range of cancers. You can eat arugula raw (as a great base for a salad), but you can also sprinkle it on anything you’re preparing. It’s great on pizza, in omelettes, and with pasta, for example.
Apples: Apples provide the anti-cancer quercetin and fiber, which can help maintain cholesterol and blood sugar levels within healthy levels.
Bottom Line: Taking care of the health of all organs of the body, including the kidneys, depends primarily on healthy, balanced food that is rich in all the elements you need. Therefore, it is best to focus on foods that specifically contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, which can prevent the kidneys from being exposed to inflammation and disease.
FAQs
- What are some of the best foods for kidney health?
There are 13 essential foods for maintaining kidney health, including fatty fish, cabbage, sweet peppers, cranberries, olive oil, garlic, onions, cauliflower, egg whites, watercress, and apples. - How can I incorporate these foods into my diet?
You can add these foods to your diet in a variety of ways, such as including them in salads, using them as wraps, roasting them, and adding them to omelettes and pasta dishes. - Can I still eat these foods if I have chronic kidney disease?
Yes, most of these foods are suitable for people with chronic kidney disease, but it’s best to consult with your doctor to determine the best course of action.