Kidneys are a very important organ which filters the waste, regulates the fluid balance and maintains the important electrolytes in the body. Kidney health is important since they are important. Genetics and lifestyle factors like exercise and smoking are important, but diet can be a driver to help keep the kidneys healthy, and protect against the development of kidney disease. Next, we’ll take a look at how diet impacts kidney health and what foods can help improve kidney function and prevent damage.
Kidney health: Essential Nutrients
There are several key nutrients involved with keeping the kidneys healthy. Top nephrologists can provide valuable insights into their contributions to the whole system, helping you maintain an informed and kidney-friendly diet.
- Protein: The body needs protein for tissue repair and to grow. While too much protein isn’t an issue for most people, it can stress the kidneys for those with kidney disease. To avoid kidney damage, it’s best to opt for lean protein sources like fish, chicken or plant based proteins like lentils if you’re looking to maintain or build muscle without jackhammering your kidneys.
- Sodium: High blood pressure can be dangerous for your kidneys because it is caused by too much sodium in your blood, which can be found in processed foods. Fluid retention also occurs with high sodium levels placing additional pressure on your kidneys. Protecting your kidneys requires reducing salt intake — that means avoiding processed foods and using herbs and spices for flavoring instead.
- Potassium: Secondly, it’s very important for regulating blood pressure and for muscle function. But in kidney disease potassium can build up in your blood and cause serious complications. Potassium rich foods such as bananas, potatoes and tomatoes can be good for healthy kidneys, but when you’ve got kidney problems you’ve got to moderate it.
- Phosphorus: While most of us realize that we need phosphorus to keep our bones healthy, too much phosphorus (as in dairy, processed meats, and some sodas) can have negative affects on our bones and kidneys. Other ways to protect kidney function (particularly if you have existing kidney problems) include limiting high phosphorus foods.
- Calcium: Calcium is important for bone health and also helps prevent kidney stones. Too much calcium taken in the form of supplements or through dairy can also lead to the formation of kidney stones, but typical diets contain plenty of calcium already. Maintaining kidney health means balancing the intake of calcium against other minerals.
Kidney Health Foods
A kidney friendly diet is foods that support kidney function and overall health.
Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables containing vitamins, antioxidants and fiber are nutritionally important and eating a variety supports kidney health. Good nutrient choices include berries, apples, bell peppers and leafy greens, all with little sodium and phosphorus.
Whole Grains: Whole grains such as quinoa, oats and brown rice supply the body with fiber, the missing ingredient in most ‘healthy’ diets that is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and functional kidneys. Controlling blood sugar is also important for kidney health and fiber helps with that too.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocados, and nuts can all help your heart and decrease inflammation, as unsaturated fats. Healthy fats in your diet will help prevent high blood pressure and other conditions that can cause kidney damage.
Hydration: It’s important to drink enough water for your kidneys to be healthy and help flush the toxins and to support kidney filtration. Hydration properly also prevents kidney stones and urinary tract infections which can harm how your kidneys function.
Foods You Should Hit Avoid Until Your Kidneys Get Repaired
There are foods that put strain on your kidneys or that can contribute to kidney disease. If you’re trying to keep your kidneys healthy, it’s always a good idea to consult a nephrologist to understand which foods to avoid or limit.
Excessive Salt: Eating too much sodium can raise blood pressure and the amount of work your kidneys have to do. Canned soups, frozen meals and fast food —which are often processed foods— are often high in salt. The best way to reduce sodium is to choose from fresh, whole foods and prepare meals at home.
Processed Foods: Common processed foods are high in unhealthy fats, sodium and phosphorus and all can have a negative impact on kidney function. Protecting kidney health involves avoiding these foods.
High-Phosphorus Foods: Phosphorus is abundant in foods such as sodas and packaged snacks and processed meats. Too much phosphorus can damage your bones and make your kidneys work harder, if you have kidney disease.
Foods High in Oxalates: These foods can contain oxalates that can cause the formation of kidney stones, such as spinach, nuts and chocolate. If you are susceptible to kidney stones, choose not to eat foods rich in oxalates.
Conclusion
A balanced diet is essential for kidney health, and that food supports normal kidney function and prevents the worsening of kidney disease. You can protect your kidney by sticking to a balanced food, eliminating processed foods and keeping hydrated. Kidney health should be followed closely, especially if you have a risk factor like diabetes or high blood pressure, by regular check ups with a healthcare professional. Getting into the habit of eating kidney friendly now can help to prevent problems with the kidney over the long term.
