Diet Plan for Healthy Kidneys: Foods to Eat and Avoid

Kidneys, being the filtering units of our bodies, filter our blood 24*7 and remove wastes from it. They also play a pivotal role in producing red blood cells in the body. By producing a compound called Renin, kidneys also regulate blood pressure. it is only natural, therefore, to keep them healthy so that filtered blood reaches every nook and cranny of your body. This article will shed more light on the food items that must be added and avoided for healthy kidneys.

Recommended Dietary Changes for Healthy Kidneys

• Choose a Diet Rich in Plant-Based Food Items: You must eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. These foods are easily digestible and strengthen renal functions. Additionally, these food items do not put much pressure on the digestive system as well.
• Make Water Your Friend: When you are dehydrated, your kidneys cannot filter out wastes effectively. Replenish your hydration needs with an adequate amount of water. Herbal teas, coconut water, and juices are also excellent for hydrating yourself.
• Parsley Juice: The diuretic properties of this juice have been scientifically proven to promote a higher frequency and amount of urination. This implies the concentration of toxins in the body goes down significantly, eventually leading to healthier kidneys.
• Berries: Berries such as strawberries, cranberries, etc. are extremely rich in antioxidants and are rich sources of vitamin C as well. These antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in the renal tissues and keep kidneys healthy.
• Cabbage: Cabbage is rich in alkaline elements and consuming it regularly reduces acidity in the blood. This leads to blood purification and assists our kidneys in the filtering functions.
• Garlic: Garlic has allicin, a compound that has strong anti-bacterial properties. Allicin helps fight off bacterial infections in the renal tissues. This results in stronger kidneys.
• Onions: Onions have a high amount of nutrients like vitamins A, B6, C, and E, as well as iron. Add to that, the presence of dietary fiber aids in smooth digestion. Consuming this veggie regularly regulates creatinine levels in the body.
• Red Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C and have a low caloric value. These veggies inhibit the accumulation of bad cholesterol in the body, leading to fewer cardiovascular issues and healthier kidneys.
• Cucumber: Cucumbers have a high-water content and very low amount of potassium and phosphorus. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in this vegetable may promote healthy renal functioning. A high water content allows for a smooth removal of wastes from the body.

Food Items to Avoid

• High Sodium Food Items: Processed, canned foods are extremely high in sodium, as salt is used for preserving them. Do not consume processed, canned, and frozen food items. Consuming less sodium has multiple benefits such as normal blood pressure, reduced risk of edema, etc.
• Too Much Animal-Based Protein: Fish, red meat, chicken, etc. are quite high in protein, and consuming them for prolonged periods may result in higher creatinine production in the body. This may result in poor renal function in the long run. Replace animal-based protein with tofu, cheese, etc. Plant-based protein is a much safer option for those with compromised renal functions.
• Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol results in poor liver health and cardiovascular diseases. Apart from this, alcohol leads to addiction which can be devastating for you and your family. This impacts our renal health as well. Completely avoid drinking if you want healthy kidneys.
• Avocados: Avocados are high in potassium and high-potassium foods are not particularly recommended to anyone suffering from renal issues. If you still want to eat avocados, eat a small portion size.
• Pickles, Olives, and Relish: Pickles, processed olives, and relish are extremely high in salt and oil. To give you a simple example, five green pickled olives cover almost 10% of the daily recommended amount of sodium.
• Pretzels, Chips, and Crackers: Food items like pretzels, chips, and crackers have high salt and very little nutritional value. Chips are made from potatoes, which are extremely high in potassium. Even a small portion size of these food items can lead to an unreasonably high amount of potassium intake, which may negatively impact your renal health.

Keeping your kidneys healthy is necessary for a healthy you. Knowing what to eat and avoid is vital for keeping kidneys healthy. Actively consuming renal-friendly foods and staying away from renal-unfriendly foods simultaneously is key to keeping your kidneys healthy naturally. Do ask for your doctor’s advice before making any changes to your diet plan though.