Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common risk factors for developing kidney disease. Obesity, your gender, smoking, genetics, and your age all add to your risk. Even if you are free from kidney disease at the moment, consider these 20 healthful foods for fighting kidney disease.
The Healthy Kidney
When our kidneys are healthy, they perform powerful and important tasks. They release hormones to regulate our blood pressure, balance the fluids in our body, produce urine, and filter waste.
Some of the foods we eat can boost the function of our kidneys while others restrict their performance. If you do develop kidney disease, it is important to remember that every case is a bit different, so it is essential that you talk with Southland Urology to determine which foods will be best for your individual needs.
To keep your kidneys working at their very best, try adding the following 20 foods into your weekly diet.
Blueberries
Blueberries and other dark berries like strawberries and raspberries are among the best sources of antioxidants to help protect your kidneys. In addition, they are certainly better than a sugary alternative.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is high in Vitamin C, K, and B, which means it’s full of antioxidants and is a great source of fiber. Serve mashed and well seasoned cauliflower instead of traditional potatoes. You can steam, microwave, or cook cauliflower with pasta.
Olive Oil
This healthy fat has anti-inflammatory properties, and as a monounsaturated fat, is stays stable at high temperatures during cooking. Using extra virgin olive oil will give you an even greater amount antioxidants added to your favorite dish.
Garlic
When you suffer from kidney problems, it is beneficial to avoid salt. Garlic can give you the flavor you crave by using garlic powder instead of salt in recipes, plus it adds a great dose of Vitamin C and B6.
Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers are full of antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin A. They are low in potassium, and taste great in all types of recipes. Eat them raw in salads or with dips, or bake some stuffed green peppers with a tasty filling.
Cabbage
This veggie is full of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B, plus insoluble fiber to keep digestion moving and ease bowel movements. Steam, microwave, or boil your cabbage if cooking it all the way through, or make coleslaw if you’d like to serve it cold.
Skinless Chicken
Without its skin, chicken has less potassium and sodium than with the skin on. Just be sure to choose fresh chicken that has not been precooked.
Arugula
Green leafy vegetables like arugula are full of antioxidants and vital nutrients. It is a particularly good choice since it is low in potassium, which is beneficial for your kidneys, and it helps to lower blood pressure.
Four Beneficial Fruits
Pineapple, cranberries, red grapes, and apples are all kidney-friendly fruits with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cranberries keep the urinary tract free from infection (UTI)
- Red grapes reduce inflammation and help protect against diabetes
- Apples help to prevent constipation and reduce cholesterol
- Pineapple is a sweet fruit that is low in sodium and potassium while still offering a significant amount of Vitamin B
Water
Never forget that drinking water keeps our bodies healthy by removing waste products from our blood. Our kidneys need water to filter out the toxins from our body.
Onions
Onions are another perfect addition to a recipe for those looking to skip the salt. Onions and garlic used together and cooked in olive oil gives you the best kind of kidney-friendly flavor. They are each high in Vitamin C and B, and will bring great benefits your digestive system as well. Try beef with onions and peppers if you’re in need of a new recipe featuring these awesome veggies.
Macadamia Nuts
Most nuts are not recommended for those with kidney issues, but macadamia nuts are an exception. They contain healthy fats plus B Vitamins.
Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, and sea bass all contain omega 3 fatty acids. These unique fats help to reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Just remember that small portions are best, so be careful not to overdo it here.
Egg Whites
Egg whites are better than consuming the yolks if you have any kinds of kidney problems. They provide a high protein content without the phosphorus from the yolks. Deviled egg snacks are a perfect way to make sure you get all the nutrients from the egg whites along with a delicious treat.
Shiitake Mushrooms
A great plant based protein, shiitake mushrooms are an ideal food for those with kidney issues. They are better than white button and portobellos since they contain much less potassium.
Radishes
Radishes are a great substitute for salt in all kinds of dishes, and are also an excellent source of Vitamin C. These vegetables also provide antioxidants to decrease a person’s risk for heart disease.
Turnips
Potatoes and winter squash are not recommended for someone with kidney issues, but turnips are a great alternative. They are loaded with fiber and can be mashed or roasted to become the perfect side dish.
Speak with Southland Urology to learn more easy tips and tricks for fighting kidney disease.
As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Southland Urology, please call (714) 870-5970 or request an appointment online today!