Kidneys are small but powerful bean-shaped organs that perform many important functions in our bodies.
We can’t live without kidneys. They remove waste, control the body’s fluid, and remove the excess waste and water through urination.
This process is necessary to maintain a stable balance of body chemicals. And when its function is abnormal for any reason, it can lead to serious, life-threatening complications.
Kidney disease is a common problem affecting about 10% of the world’s population.
There are various ways in which these vital organs can become damaged. Kidney diseases are silent killers, which mainly affect your quality of life.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common risk factors for kidney disease. However, obesity, smoking, genetics, gender, and age can also increase the risk.
Some foods that are healthy for your kidney include;
- BLUEBERRIES: Blueberries are kidney-friendly since they are low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium hence incorporate them into your diet. It contains antioxidants called anthocyanins, which may protect against heart disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline, and diabetes.
- CABBAGE: Cabbage is naturally low in sodium, which makes it a great vegetable to have to prevent kidney disease. It also contains several helpful compounds and vitamins for overall well-being. The best way to eat cabbage is to have it lightly cooked so that it retains its health benefits.
- PINEAPPLE: Pineapple is a very nutritious food especially for those with kidney problems. This is because it is fibre, manganese, vitamin C, and bromelain (an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation). Try and incorporate pineapple into your diet immediately.
- GARLIC: People with kidney problems are advised to limit the amount of sodium in their diet, including added salt. Garlic provides a delicious alternative to salt, adding flavor to dishes while providing nutritional benefits. It’s a good source of manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 and contains sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- ONIONS: Onions are excellent for providing sodium-free flavor to renal-diet dishes. This makes them helpful for patients recovering from kidney problems. Reducing salt intake can be challenging, making finding flavorful salt alternatives a must.
- RED GRAPES: Red grapes are not only delicious but also deliver a ton of nutrition in a small package. They’re high in vitamin C and contain antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation. Additionally, red grapes are high in resveratrol, a type of flavonoid that has been shown to benefit heart health and protect against diabetes and cognitive decline.
- EGG WHITE: Egg yolks are very nutritious, they contain high amounts of phosphorus, making egg a better choice for people following a renal diet. Egg white provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein.
- SWEET POTATO: The amount of vitamins and minerals found in sweet potato are great for consumption at any time of the day. Their high fibre content further breaks down slowly, making it ideal to reduce weight too.
- APPLE: The healthiest any-time snack that keeps doctors away, apples are helpful for protecting kidneys too. The high pectin content in apples helps reduce the risk factors associated with kidney damage.
- WATER: Water is the best diet hence staying hydrated can help keep the kidneys healthy. Water helps the kidney remove wastes from your blood in the form of urine. Always stay hydrated if you care for your kidney.
