Perhaps there is no other part of the human body that people take as much care of as they do towards kidneys when it comes to general fitness. These small yet so significant organs perform a great duty of purifying your blood, regulating the amount of water in your body, and other significant body functions.
Maintaining excellent kidney health is very imperative, and this can only be made possible through a kidney-friendly diet. But what does that look like? As stated above, here are some recommendation of the foods that one should take to have healthy kidneys and improve the working of these organs.
To give you a short background and understanding on why a kidney-friendly diet is very important.
Organs such as the kidney are constantly purging waste and excess fluids from the human body. They also assist in managing necessary macronutrients and micronutrients and also the electrolytes. A diet with too much of such nutrients or with too much salt and processed foods can overload the kidneys and form conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes that are precursors to kidney disease.
What Foods are Good for Kidneys?
- Berries
Fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries have antioxidant, vitamin-rich, and fiber contents. It is also low in potassium, therefore highly recommended for patients afflicted with kidney problems. Antioxidants are believed to lower inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, which are both helpful in managing kidney health.
- Red Bell Peppers
The red bell peppers contain aspects of vitamin A, vitamin C, and folic acid.
- Garlic
Garlic is considered to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. But it can also flavour up foods and avoid the use of salt, which is very essential for clients with kidney issues. Eat raw or cooked garlic as used in foods, or consult with your nephrology doctor to take garlic supplements.
- Apples
Apples are one of the most recommended snack foods, they contain fiber and antioxidants. It is thus indicated that these foods are low in potassium and can help cut cholesterol, which is very essential for the welfare of the kidneys. They can be eaten raw, or one can prepare pieces to include in salads.
- Olive Oil
The results show that olive oil is a healthy fat that contains a positive anti-inflammatory impact. It is an ideal replacement for butter or any other unhealthy oils and is excellent for reducing cholesterol. This is perhaps best served as a base for cooking sauces or a dressing for your salads.
- Fish
Some of the omega-3 fatty acids readily available in fish include salmon, trout, and sardines, which have anti-inflammatory properties. They also supply a form of protein that doesn’t have dangerous amounts of phosphorus like in red meats. Choose fresh fish or frozen fish, as other fish are high in potassium that may harm the kidneys.
Kidneys require special attention, more so to citizens aged 50 years and above. Here is how you can boost your kidney health:
- Monitor Portion Sizes: That means an otherwise healthy food can also be a problem, if only in large amounts. Particularly care on the serving sizes, especially when it comes to protein-bearing foods.
- Stay Hydrated: Also, the intake of water aids in the rightful elimination of wastes by the kidneys. It is recommended that a person drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
- Limit Sodium: Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure and kidney damage. Use herbs and spices to flavor your food instead of salt.
- Choose Whole Foods: Processed foods often contain hidden sodium and phosphorus. Focus on whole, fresh foods for a kidney-friendly diet.
Visit the best nephrology hospital in Vanasthalipuram for the best family healthcare today!