What are the best foods for kidney health?

Being the filtering units of the body, keeping your kidneys healthy is super important for the effective functioning of the body. The good news is that eating the right foods can make a big difference! Choosing kidney-friendly options like fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins can help support their function and assist with their optimal functioning. Ayurvedic treatment for kidney disease also advocates for including the best foods for kidney health for the optimal functioning of the kidneys. With some simple tweaks to your diet, you can give your kidneys the food to feast upon while boosting their health as well. This article will talk about the best foods for kidneys in detail.

Best Foods for Kidney Health

• Red Bell Peppers: This veggie is low on potassium and high on vitamin C, folates, fiber, and vitamin B6. A high concentration of antioxidants, especially lycopene, ensures that our renal functions improve significantly and our kidneys remain healthy. They are one of the best foods for kidney health.
• Cabbage: Cabbage is rich in folates, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin K, and vitamin C. This veggie reduces the absorption rate of minerals in the blood, making it an excellent choice for renal patients. However, if eating cabbage results in bloating, then consult your doctor.
• Cauliflower and Broccoli: Both cauliflower and broccoli are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. The presence of anti-inflammatory properties in these veggies makes them a good choice for our kidneys. However, if you have severe renal issues, then avoid consuming these veggies.
• Green leafy veggies: A high concentration of vitamin C, folates, fiber, phytonutrients, and vitamin K in these veggies helps our body control blood sugar and blood pressure better. They also contain compounds that may lower blood pressure, which is important for kidney function. However, some leafy greens, like spinach and Swiss chard, are high in potassium. So, if your renal functions are compromised, then please consult with your doctor before actively including green veggies.
• Garlic: Allicin in garlic helps control blood pressure, and its antioxidant properties fight off renal infections.
• Asparagus: Asparagus is rich in phytonutrients and fiber, and it helps cleanse our kidneys by assisting in the formation of urine, breaking down uric acid, etc. in the body. Do not eat asparagus if you have renal issues, though.
• Apples: Apples are rich in fiber, and they aid in the effective flushing out of toxins from the body. They also boost our immune system and indirectly impact the kidney health.
• Berries: Berries are excellent detox items, and they are rich in antioxidants too.
• Olive oil: Olive oil reduces inflammation, maintains cholesterol levels, and reduces kidney stone-related pain. The presence of oleic acid in this oil makes it an excellent anti-inflammatory food item.
• Melons: Melons are loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A high-water content in melons also assists the filtration functions of the kidneys.
• Ginger: Ginger maintains cholesterol and blood pressure. It is also helpful in improving our digestion.
• Turmeric: The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric improve our renal functions. However, kidney patients should consume this spice in moderation as it has high potassium levels.

Some Lifestyle Changes for Good Renal Health

• Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming or yoga, helps to keep a check on blood pressure, reducing strain on your kidneys. A 30 minutes brisk walk is ideal for kidney patients. Kidney treatment in Ayurveda also advises the patients to indulge in regular exercise.
• Adequate water intake is critical for kidney function as it helps to flush out toxins from the body and avoid the formation of kidney stones. However, do not gulp down higher quantities of water at once; sip it slowly.
• High stress levels can lead to high blood pressure, adversely affecting kidney health. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing and healthy sleep can help you manage stress better.
• Your kidneys work tirelessly to filter waste, and quality sleep works to regulate their function. Sleep at least 7-8 hours per night.
• Do not overdo on painkillers like ibuprofen or naproxen. Frequent use can damage your kidneys and cause other damage to renal tissues as well.

Conclusion

For optimal kidney health, you must focus on a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. In addition to the food items mentioned above, staying hydrated and adopting kidney friendly habits can protect against damage. Always consult a healthcare provider for curated changes for your diet though. In case your symptoms turn severe, you should opt for a thorough treatment at a reputed hospital like Karma Ayurveda Hospital for better prognosis.