Kidneys are vital parts of our bodies. They help in filtering blood to remove waste, balance electrolytes, regulate blood pressure, maintain fluid balance, produce hormones for red blood cell production, and activate vitamin D for bone health. They are essential for overall body homeostasis.
Kidney diseases, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), and glomerulonephritis, damage the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. This can lead to toxin buildup, fluid imbalance, hypertension, and impaired kidney function, potentially requiring dialysis or transplant.
Eating the right type of food to manage your kidney diseases. In this blog we will identify what is good for kidneys? How can a healthy kidney diet help you to control your kidney diseases? How to incorporate foods for kidney health into your diet?
Why You Need to Eat the Right Food for Your Kidney Health?
Diet plays a crucial role in preventing and managing kidney diseases. Excessive intake of sodium, protein, and unhealthy fats can strain the kidneys, leading to worsening conditions like hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD). High phosphorus and potassium levels can be harmful to individuals with kidney disease, necessitating dietary adjustments.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports kidney health. Hydration is vital but should be monitored in advanced kidney disease. Limiting processed foods, sugar, and salt intake helps maintain kidney function and overall health, reducing the risk of kidney-related complications (1).
Foods to Improve Kidney Function
1. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is high in fiber, vitamin C, and folate. It Supports digestion and reduces inflammation. Cauliflower also contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which helps to improve kidney health. Steam or roast as a side dish, add to soups, or mash as a potato substitute.
Approximately 60g of cauliflower provides (1)
- sodium: 9.3 milligrams (mg)
- potassium: 88 mg
- phosphorus: 20 mg
- protein: 1 g
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber. They protect kidneys against oxidative stress and inflammation. They are easy to incorporate into the diet. Add cereals, smoothies, or eat as a snack.
Approximately 150 g of blueberries provide (2)
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 114 mg
- phosphorus: 18 mg
- protein: 1 g
3. Sea Bass
Sea bass is a popular food option to improve kidney function. It is rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B. It helps the kidneys by reducing inflammation and supports overall health. Grill, bake, or pan-sear and serve with vegetables.
Approximately 100 g of cooked sea bass provide (3)
- sodium: 74 mg
- potassium: 279 mg
- phosphorus: 211 mg
- protein: 20 g
4. Red Grapes
Red grapes are delicious fruits rich in vitamin C, K, and antioxidants. They help Protect kidneys against oxidative stress and inflammation. You can eat them as a snack, add to salads, or freeze for a cool treat.
Approximately 75 g of red grapes provide (4)
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 144 mg
- phosphorus: 15 mg
- protein: 0.5 g
5. Egg Whites
Eggs are popular foods high in protein and low in phosphorus. Consuming eggs is good for kidney health. They Provides protein without the extra phosphorus found in yolks. Eggs are versatile to use. They can be made as omelets, scrambled, or added to salads.
Two medium size eggs provide (5)
- sodium: 110 mg
- potassium: 108 mg
- phosphorus: 10 mg
- protein: 7 g
6. Garlic
Garlic is common ingredient in the Indian diet. They contain vitamin C, B6, and manganese. They reduce inflammation and support renal and cardiovascular health. They contain Sulphur rich compound which has anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic can be used to season dishes, roast, or add to sauces.
Approximately 10 g of garlic provides (6)
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 36 mg
- phosphorus: 14 mg
- protein: 0.5 g
7. Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a whole grain that is rich in fiber, magnesium, and iron. Buckwheat provides essential nutrients and is low in phosphorus which is essential to maintain kidney functions. You can add buckwheat as a base for salads, in porridge, or as a rice substitute.
Approximately 100g of buckwheat provides (7)
- sodium: 0.8 mg
- potassium: 391 mg
- phosphorus: 295 mg
- protein: 11g
8. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthy choice not only for kidneys but also for the heart. It is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It Reduces inflammation and supports heart health. Use olive oil for cooking, dressings, or drizzle over vegetables.
Approximately 15 g of olive oil provides (8)
- sodium: 0.3 mg
- potassium: 0.1 mg
- phosphorus: 0 mg
- protein: 0 g
9. Bulgur
Bulgur is a whole grain and better for kidneys than other high potassium. It is rich in fiber, manganese, and magnesium. Bulgur Supports digestion and is kidney-friendly due to low phosphorus content. You can use it in salads, soups, or as a side dish.
Approximately 70g of cooked bulgur provides (9)
- sodium: 154 mg
- potassium: 48 mg
- phosphorus: 28 mg
- protein: 2 g
10. Cabbage
Cabbage is a vegetable high in vitamins C and K, fiber, and folate. It helps kidneys by reducing inflammation and supporting digestion. Cabbage cabbage can be consumed as a vegetable or added in salads, soups, or stir-fries.
Approximately 70 g of cabbage provide (10)
- sodium: 20 mg
- potassium: 161 mg
- phosphorus: 29 mg
- protein: 1.4 g
11. Chicken (skinless)
Chicken is also an excellent food for kidneys. It provides high-quality protein, B vitamins, and selenium. Chicken provides essential protein without too much phosphorus. The best way to consume chicken is to grill, bake, or stir-fry with vegetables.
Approximately 150 g of cooked chicken provides (11)
- sodium: 104 mg
- potassium: 358 mg
- phosphorus: 319 mg
- protein: 43 g
12. Bell Peppers
Bell pepper is rich in vitamins A, C, B6, and folate. It supports immune health and reduces inflammation which is closely linked to kidney function. You can add bell pepper to salads, stir-fries, or eat it raw as a snack.
Approximately 100 g of bell peppers
- sodium: less than 2.5 mg
- potassium: 213 mg
- phosphorus: 27 mg
- protein: 1 g
13. Onions
Onions are a great food for kidney disease treatment diet. It is Rich in vitamins C, B6, and manganese. Onions help to reduce inflammation and supports heart health. Onions are versatile food and can be used in cooking for flavor, in salads, or as a garnish.
Approximately 70 g of onion provides (13)
- sodium: 3 mg
- potassium: 102 mg
- phosphorus: 20 mg
- protein: 0.8 g
14. Arugula
Arugula is a nutrient dense green food. High in vitamins K, A, and C. It is low in potassium, which is good for the kidneys and provides essential nutrients. It is also rich in nitrates which help to lower blood pressure. Add to salads, sandwiches, or use as a garnish.
Approximately 20 g of arugula provides (14)
- sodium: 5 mg
- potassium: 74 mg
- phosphorus: 10 mg
- protein: 0.5 g
15. Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. They are low in phosphorus and supports heart health. They can be consumed as a snack raw, added to salads, or used in baking.
Approximately 30 g of macadamia nuts provide (15)
- sodium: 1.4 mg
- potassium: 104 mg
- phosphorus: 53 mg
- protein: 2 g
16. Radishes
Radish is a vegetable high in vitamin C, fiber, and low in potassium. It Supports digestion and detoxification that improves kidney health. Add radish to salads, sandwiches, or eat as a snack.
Approximately 60 g of chopped radish provides (16)
- sodium: 23 mg
- potassium: 135 mg
- phosphorus: 12 mg
- protein: 0.4 g
17. Turnips
Turnip is a root vegetable rich in vitamin C, fiber, and low in phosphorus. It Supports digestion and immune health. You can roast, mash, or add it to soups and stews.
Approximately 80 g of turnip provides (17)
- sodium: 160 mg
- potassium: 159 mg
- phosphorus: 22 mg
- protein: 1 g
18. Pineapple
Pineapple is a delicious tropical fruit. It is high in vitamins C, B6, and manganese. It reduces inflammation and supports digestion. Add pineapple to fruit salads, smoothies, or eat as a snack.
Approximately 200g of pineapple provides (18)
- sodium: 2 mg
- potassium: 180 mg
- phosphorus: 13 mg
- protein: 1 g
19. Cranberries
Cranberries are high in vitamins C, E, and fiber. Cranberries prevent urinary tract infections and supports kidney health. Add cranberries to salads, oatmeal, or eat dried as a snack.
Approximately 100 g cranberries provide (19)
- sodium: 2 mg
- potassium: 80 mg
- phosphorus: 11 mg
- protein: 0.5 g
20. Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. They are low in potassium and support immune function. Add stir-fries, soups, or use as a meat substitute in dishes.
Approximately 145g of shiitake mushrooms provide (20)
- sodium: 6 mg
- potassium: 170 mg
- phosphorus: 42 mg
- protein: 2 g
Conclusion
People with kidney disease must regulate their consumption of phosphorus, salt, and potassium. In some stages of the condition, they might also need to restrict their protein intake.
Since nutritional requirements and limitations evolve throughout the progression of the disease, it’s important to consult with a doctor before changing your diet. They can assist you in developing a diet chart for kidney disorders that meets your specific needs.
Appropriate choices might include chicken, shiitake mushrooms, cranberries, macadamia nuts, and a variety of other delicious and nutritious foods.
FAQs
1. What are the 10 best foods for kidney disease?
The 10 best foods for kidney disease include:
- Red bell peppers
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Blueberries
- Red grapes
- Egg whites
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Skinless chicken
- Onions
2. What are 5 foods to avoid for kidney disease?
Avoid these five foods for kidney disease:
- Processed meats
- Canned foods
- Dark-colored sodas
- Avocados
- Bananas
3. What improves kidney function?
Improving kidney function involves staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, and managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Regular exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and following prescribed medications and medical advice also contribute to better kidney health.
1 Comment
Thanks for sharing with us about best foods for kidney health.