Our kidneys may be small in size, but they are nevertheless powerful: they perform many functions throughout the body. To keep your kidneys healthy and functioning properly, consider adding these foods to your daily lifestyle.
Green leafy vegetables:
Leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach are nutrient-dense foods. Packed with vitamins and minerals essential for kidney function and general health. These nutrients have an anti-cancer action and strengthen the immune system.
Red fruits:
Berries, like strawberries and blueberries, are low-calorie snacks that are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. These exert anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
Omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats for cell function. They are an integral part of the cell membrane and also influence the performance of cell receptors present in said membrane.
Production cannot be established by our body. Hence the need to fill up on this essential nutrient by consuming certain foods. Here are those that are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids:
- Fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel.
- Canola oil.
- Chia seeds.
- Soybeans.
To drink a lot of water :
Apart from a healthy diet, it is important to drink water to ensure the proper functioning of the kidneys. Sufficient water and fluid intake is essential for general health. But it also helps to ensure kidney health.
In chronic kidney disease (CKD), you have to be more careful about what you eat and drink. This is due to the fact that your kidneys can no longer properly evacuate liquids and waste from your body.
Here we present some choices that may be recommended.
Here are some foods that are easier for your kidneys to digest:
- Rocket – Lower in potassium than most other green vegetables, but packed with fiber and other beneficial nutrients.
- Apple – Very rich in fiber and anti-inflammatory components. It can be eaten raw, cooked, in juice or in cider.
- Berries – Blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, red grapes, and cherries are solid sources of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Peaches, plums and pineapples – These fruits are sweet and have a lower potassium content than nectarines, mangoes and papayas.
- Asparagus – They contain practically all the essential vitamins and minerals.
- The onions – They reduce inflammation and promote immune health.
- garlic – Whether fresh or chopped, this food reduces inflammation and can replace salt for seasoning.
- Olive oil – It helps to reduce inflammation in the body.
If you are on dialysis, your doctor may tweak your diet to meet your nutritional needs.
Foods to avoid:
It is essential to have a good balanced diet in order to provide enough nutrients to your body, without stressing your kidneys. Avoid foods rich in:
- Sodium – It increases blood pressure and contributes to the formation of fluid in the body. Do not consume table salt, condiments like soy sauce and garlic salt. Avoid processed, pickled or canned foods. Instead, opt for fresh garlic, lemon, ground pepper, dill, or onion powder.
- Phosphorus and calcium – These minerals help maintain healthy and strong bones, but when consumed in large quantities, they damage the blood vessels, eyes and heart.
- Potassium – Potassium maintains the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. In contrast, high blood levels are likely to lead to heart problems in people with CKD.
- Proteins – Proteins solicit the kidneys and their excessive consumption can prevent them from eliminating waste from the body. Reduce the consumption of animal proteins such as meats, some seafood and dairy products.
- Alcohol – Drinking alcohol impairs your kidneys’ ability to filter blood and ensure the right amount of water in your body.