Not all foods are created equal when it comes to nutrition and improving kidney performance. Some studies have shown the foods high in phosphorus, for example, can stress the kidneys and increase the risk of long-term damage. Some of these foods include red meat, dairy products, legumes and nuts, most grains and some fish.
Foods that help your kidneys
Although certain conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, may hinder the kidneys’ performance, a healthy diet can help improve the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products out of the blood and balance electrolytes and fluids. Some of the best foods in terms of nutrition and aid to the kidneys include:
• Apples: High in an important fiber, pectic, apples may help decrease cholesterol levels and high blood sugar.
• Darky leafy greens: Foods high in antioxidants, such as kale, spinach and chard, provide much-needed vitamins, minerals and fiber. Just be careful if you’re on a sodium-restricted diet or dialysis because these foods also tend to have lots of potassium.
• Dark berries: Because raspberries, blueberries and strawberries are high in antioxidants and other nutrition, they help protect your cells from damage.
• Sweet potatoes: Offering a good mix of vitamins, minerals and potassium, sweet potatoes help balance sodium levels to increase the kidneys’ function. Again, be wary of high-potassium foods if you’re on dialysis or have chronic kidney disease. Sweet potatoes are also high in fiber, which helps your body avoid insulin spikes because the fiber breaks down slowly.
• Fatty fish: Certain types of fish are healthier than others. Look for tuna, salmon and other cold-water fish that have plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, which decrease fat levels in the blood. Eating fatty fish may also help avoid blood pressure—a risk factor for kidney disease.
Drinking water
If you do nothing else in terms of nutrition, at least increase your water intake! Your body’s cells use it to transport toxins into the bloodstream, and then the kidneys filter the toxins out and excrete them through urine.
