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If you want to keep your kidneys healthy, you need to know what foods to eat. Here are the top 10 foods to eat for kidney health.
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Introduction
If you have kidney disease, it’s important to follow a kidney-friendly diet. This includes eating the right foods and avoiding foods that may damage your kidneys.
There are several types of kidney disease, and each one has different dietary recommendations. However, there are some general guidelines that all people with kidney disease should follow.
In general, you should aim to eat a varied diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. You should also limit your intake of salt, sugar, and saturated and trans fats.
Here are the top 10 foods to eat if you have kidney disease:
The Top 10 Foods to Eat for Kidney Health
If you have kidney disease, you may need to limit how much sodium, phosphorus and potassium you eat. You may also need to limit fluids. These restrictions can make it hard to get the nutrients your body needs.
A kidney-healthy diet may also include eating less fat and more fiber. Fiber helps reduce cholesterol and keep blood sugar levels in check.
The following are 10 of the best foods to eat for kidney health:
1. Cabbage: Cabbage is a good source of fiber and vitamin C. It also contains sulfur, which helps keep your kidneys healthy.
2. Garlic: Garlic is a natural diuretic and helps promote kidney health by reducing inflammation and keeping cholesterol levels in check.
3. Apples: Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, both of which are good for your kidneys. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
4. Cranberries: Cranberries are high in antioxidants and help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are a common complication of kidney disease. They also help reduce inflammation and improve kidney function.
5. Blueberries: Blueberries are another good source of antioxidants, as well as vitamins C and K. They help reduce inflammation and improve kidney function.
6. Spinach: Spinach is a good source of iron, folate, magnesium, calcium and vitamins A, C and K. It also contains lutein, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Spinach is especially beneficial for people with chronic kidney disease because it helps reduce inflammation and improve kidney function.
7. Fish: Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are important for people with kidney disease because they help reduce inflammation and improve kidney function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for heart health, so including fish in your diet is a win-win!
Examples of fish that are especially good for people with kidney disease include salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring and sardines . 8 . Water: Drinking plenty of water is important for people with kidney disease because it helps flush toxins from your body . Water also helps prevent UTIs , which are a common complication of kidney disease . 9 . Oatmeal : Oatmeal is a good source of fiber , magnesium , potassium , zinc and phosphorus . It ‘ s also low in sodium , making it a good option for people with kidney disease . 10 . Quinoa : Quinoa is a nutrient -rich grain that ‘ s high in fiber , magnesium , potassium , copper , iron and manganese . It ‘ s also low in sodium , making it a good option for people with Kidney Disease
The Benefits of Eating These Foods
When it comes to kidney health, what you eat is just as important as what you don’t eat. A healthy diet for your kidneys should include a variety of nutrient-rich foods that will help support your renal function. Here are the top 10 foods to eat for kidney health:
1. Berries: These little fruits are packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that can help protect your kidneys from damage.
2. Cruciferous vegetables: These include broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. They contain sulfur compounds that can help protect your kidneys from damage.
3. Garlic: This herb has been shown to help lower blood pressure and protect against oxidative stress, both of which are risk factors for kidney disease.
4. Fish: Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to protect against kidney damage.
5. Olive oil: This healthy fat can help lower blood pressure and protect against inflammation, both of which are risk factors for kidney disease.
6. Nuts: Nuts are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect your kidneys from damage.
7. Seeds: Seeds are a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They also contain antioxidants and phytonutrients that can help protect your kidneys from damage.
8. Beans: Beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. They also contain phytochemicals that can help protect your kidneys from damage.9
How to Incorporate These Foods Into Your Diet
There are a few things to consider when trying to incorporate these foods into your diet. The first is that you should aim to eat a variety of these foods rather than large amounts of just one or two. This will help you get the most benefit from all of the different nutrients they offer. The second is that, while some of these foods can be eaten raw, others are best cooked. Cooking can make them easier to digest and sometimes increase their nutrient availability. Lastly, remember that portion size matters – even healthy foods can be unhealthy in large quantities. So, aim for moderate portions when possible.
With all that in mind, here are ten great kidney-friendly foods to add to your diet:
1. Cucumbers: Cucumbers are low in potassium and contain a compound called cucurbitacin E, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. They’re also a good source of water and fiber, both of which are important for healthy kidneys.
2. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are another great source of water and fiber, and they also contain an antioxidant called lycopene. Lycopene has been shown to reduce inflammation and may help protect against some types of cancer.
3. Berries: Most berries are low in potassium and high in antioxidants, making them a great choice for those with kidney disease. Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are particularly good options.
4. Green leafy vegetables: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K as well as magnesium and iron. They’re also low in potassium and contain antioxidants that can help protect your kidneys from damage.
5 whole grains: Whole grains like oats, barley, and quinoa provide valuable nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, and selenium. They’re also a good source of fiber, which can promote intestinal health. Just be sure to choose varieties that are low in sugar and sodium.
6 lean protein: Lean protein sources like chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes are important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping your energy levels up. They’re also low in saturated fat and high in kidney-friendly nutrients like phosphorus and omega-3 fatty acids..just Choose variety meats with less saturated fats such as chicken or fish over red meats including trimming visible fat before cooking avoiding processed meats such as bacon sausage ham deli meat etc.. Salting meat before cooking can help reduce salt content by up 40%.
Another thing you should know , is too much protein could actually worsen kidney function , so speak with your physician about the recommended amount depending on your stage of kidney disease . A general rule is 0 . 6 grams per kilogram or about 4 ounces daily for someone who weighs 140 pounds . And adjust upward for those who weigh more .
Tips for Making These Foods More Kidney-Friendly
There are some great kidney-friendly foods that can help support your kidney health. Here are some tips for making these foods more kidney-friendly:
1. Go for low-potassium fruits and vegetables. Some good options include strawberries, blueberries, carrots, and cauliflower.
2. Choose whole grains over processed ones. Whole grains are a great source of fiber, which can help reduce inflammation in the kidneys.
3. Limit your intake of animal protein. Animal protein can be tough on the kidneys, so it’s best to limit your intake to two or three servings per week.
4. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. These foods can increase inflammation and put unnecessary strain on the kidneys.
5. Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids help the kidneys function properly, so make sure to drink eight glasses of water or unsweetened fluids each day.
Recipes Featuring These Foods
If you are looking to improve your kidney health, there are certain foods that you should incorporate into your diet. These foods can help to improve kidney function and protect against damage. Here are ten of the best foods for kidney health, along with some recipe ideas for how to incorporate them into your diet.
1. Cauliflower: Cauliflower is a great source of vitamin C, which is important for kidney health. Try roasted cauliflower as a side dish or in this healthy cauliflower soup recipe.
2. Garlic: Garlic has been shown to help protect against damage to the kidneys. Add garlic to roasted vegetables or use it as a seasoning in soups or pasta dishes.
3. Salmon: Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be beneficial for kidney health. Try this healthy salmon recipe for a delicious and easy way to include salmon in your diet.
4. Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect against damage to the kidneys. Enjoy them as a healthy snack or add them to smoothies or yogurt.
5. Cranberries: Like blueberries, cranberries are also rich in antioxidants and can help protect against kidney damage. Enjoy them fresh, frozen, or dried as a healthy snack or add them to recipes like this homemade cranberry sauce recipe.
6. Broccoli: Broccoli is high in vitamins A and C, both of which are important for kidney health. Enjoy it steamed or roasted as a side dish or add it to soups and salads.
7. Red bell peppers: Red bell peppers are another good source of vitamin C, which is important for kidney function. Enjoy them raw in salads or as a healthy snack with dip, cooked in stir-fries or pasta dishes, or roasted whole as an easy and healthy side dish
Conclusion
You can improve your kidney health by eating the right foods. The top 10 foods to eat for kidney health are:
1. Water: As we all know, water is essential for life. But did you know that it also plays an important role in kidney health?Water helps to flush out toxins from the body, including those that can build up in the kidneys and cause problems.
2. Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are good for overall health. They also contain fiber, which helps to keep the kidneys clean.
3. Fish: Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are important for kidney health. Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation, while protein helps to keep the kidneys functioning properly.
4. whole grains: Whole grains are a good source of fiber and other nutrients that are important for kidney health. They can also help to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for kidney disease.
5. legumes: Legumes such as beans, peas, and lentils are a good source of protein and fiber. They also contain vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health.
6. low-fat dairy: Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are rich in calcium and vitamin D, both of which are important for healthy bones and teeth. Dairy products also contain potassium, which is important for proper kidney function.
7. lean protein: Lean protein such as chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu is an excellent source of nutrients that are important for overall health. Protein is essential for proper organ function and maintenance of muscle mass. It is also necessary for wound healing and immune system function . . . all processes that become increasingly important as we age . 8 Eggs: Eggs are a good source of protein as well as many vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health . 9 Nutsand seeds : Nutsand seeds provide many nutrients thatareimportantforhealth including vitamin E , magnesium , selenium , copper , zinc ,and phosphorus . 10 Herbsand spices : Herbsand spices offer many benefits including flavor , antioxidants ,and anti-inflammatory compounds . Some common herbsand spices with theseproperties include ginger , Garlic , curry powder , turmeric , rosemary , oregano , cumin , coriander seed , cardamom pods , cloves
Further Reading
If you’re interested in learning more about how to eat for kidney health, check out the following resources:
-The Top 10 Foods to Eat for Kidney Health: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/top-ten-foods
-The Kidney Diet: https://www.davita.com/diet-nutrition/kidney-diet/overview
-Chronic Kidney Disease Diet: https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-kidney-disease/diet
References
1. National Kidney Foundation. (2019). Foods to Eat with Kidney Disease: The Top Ten. Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/food-to-eat
2. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018, August 15). 10 Foods to Avoid with Kidney Disease. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-disease/in-depth/kidney-disease-diet/art-20045678
3. Cleveland Clinic.(n.d). Chronic Kidney Disease: Stages of CKD and Treatment Guidelines – At-a-Glance Handbook.. Retrieved from https://myhealth.clevelandclinic.org/health/-/-/media/Files%20and%20Downloads%20Publications%20Ataglance%20Handbooks%Chronic_Kidney_Disease_AAG18 pdf
About the Author
Dr. Josh Axe is a doctor of natural medicine, clinical nutritionist and author with a passion to help people get well using food as medicine. He’s a co-founder of Ancient Nutrition, a health company specializing in bone broth protein powders, probiotics and collagen supplements. He’s written several best-selling books including “Eat Dirt: Why Leaky Gut May Be the Root Cause of Your Health Problems,” “Ancient Remedies: Secrets to Healing with Herbs, Spices and Essential Oils” and “The Gut Repair Cookbook.”
