Kidney eliminates wastes from your body (in the form of urine). A kidney-friendly diet is one in which protein, phosphorus, and sodium levels are controlled. Drinking a good amount of water is the best prevention for kidney diseases. Those suffering from kidney illness get problems relating to inflammation and cardiovascular diseases more often than those that do not suffer from any kidney-related illness. Here is a list of kidney friendly foods that help in keeping your kidney in good shape.
Red bell peppers
Red bell peppers are one of the best options for kidney health as they contain low potassium. They are rich in vitamins A, C, B6, folic acid, fiber and the antioxidant lycopene.
Cabbage and Cauliflower
Cabbage is filled with phytochemicals which work to break apart free radicals. Many phytochemicals are believed to combat cancer and support cardiovascular health. Boiled cabbage and cauliflower consists of fiber, folic acid, vitamins B6, K and C with low potassium.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions can decrease inflammation and reduce cholesterol. It also has antioxidant and anti-clotting properties. However, cooked garlic lacks in anti-oxidant power. So those that have a kidney affliction can better benefit from garlic by using it as a dry powder. Onion is rich in flavonoids which is helps to prevent the deposit of fatty material in blood vessels.
Apples
Apples are high in fiber and anti-inflammatory properties, they help reduce cholesterol, prevent constipation, protect against heart disease and decrease your risk of cancer. Renal-friendly apples can be eaten raw, cooked or by drinking it as apple juice or cider.
Cranberries
Cranberries are great for preventing urinary tract infections, because they make urine more acidic and help keep bacteria from attaching to the inside of the bladder. They’ve also been shown to protect against cancer and heart disease.
Blueberries
Blueberries get their color from antioxidant compounds called anthocyanidins. They have natural compounds that reduce inflammation and contain lots of vitamin C and fiber. They also contain manganese, which contributes to healthy bones.
Raspberries
Raspberries contain a compound called ellagic acid, which helps neutralize free radicals. The berry’s red color comes from antioxidants called anthocyanins. Raspberries are packed with fiber, vitamin C and manganese. They also have plenty of folate, and B vitamin.
Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in two types of antioxidants, plus they contain lots of vitamin C, manganese and fiber. They have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties and also help keep your heart healthy.
Cherries
Cherries are filled with antioxidants and phytochemicals that protect your heart. When eaten daily, they have been shown to reduce inflammation.
Red grapes
The color in red grapes comes from several flavonoids. These are good for your heart, because they prevent oxidation and reduce the chance of blood clots. One flavonoid in grapes, resveratrol, may boost production of nitric oxide, which increases muscle relaxation in blood vessels for better blood flow. Flavonoids also help protect you from cancer and prevent inflammation.
Egg whites
They offer the highest quality of protein along with essential amino acids. They contain less phosphorus as compared to egg yolks or other protein sources, which makes them a good kidney-friendly food.
Fish
Fish is the best source of anti-inflammatory fats omega-3s and a good source of protein. They assist in reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol.
Olive oil
Olive oil contains oleic acid, which is an anti-inflammatory fatty acid which protects against oxidation and polyphenols and antioxidant compounds that prevent inflammation and oxidation.
A healthy kidney diet may also be higher in fats and carbohydrates than a normal diet to make up for not getting as many calories from protein. Kidney-friendly, high calorie foods include unsaturated fats such as vegetable oils, sugar and sweets such as candy and jelly, and canned fruit in heavy syrup.
