Healthy foods for people with Kidney Disease.
By:
Jessica Joy
the Kidney is one of the most important organs in our body. It is responsible to keep your body free from toxins and helps to get rid of body waste. The kidney helps in the purification of blood and separates the waste in form of urine. They are also responsible for releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure and balancing fluids in the body.
So, keeping your kidney healthy is important. In today's era, the number of kidney patients is increasing day by day. In the present world's population, 10-15 percent of people are suffering from kidney-related diseases.
The best way to keep your kidneys healthy is by consuming the right diet.
Dietary restrictions are depending upon the level of renal damage. It is mainly recommended that people with kidney disease should restrict the following nutrients:
Sodium – It is present in many foods and especially in table salt we use. But the damaged kidneys can not filter out excess sodium, which results in increased blood pressure.
Potassium – It also increases blood pressure and is recommended to consume within the limit.
Phosphorus – Damaged kidneys are not able to remove the excess phosphorus from the body which results in hyperphosphatemia.
Here are some healthy foods a person with kidney problems should consume.
- Cauliflower
It is a nutritious vegetable that is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin B. It also has anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles. And is a good source of fiber. It can be used in place of potatoes for low potassium dishes.
- Blueberries
They are packed with many nutrients and are a good source of antioxidants. They contain antioxidants known as anthocyanins which helps in protection from diabetes, heart diseases, and even certain cancers. They are best for kidney patients as they have low sodium, potassium, and phosphorus level.
- Garlic
It provides a delicious alternative to salt, adding extra flavor to the dishes. Garlic is a good source of manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 and it also contains sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive oil
It is a healthy source of fat and is phosphorus-free making it the best option for people with kidney diseases. Olive oil contains monosaturated fat called oleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Bulgur
It is a whole grain product that is best for people with kidney problems as it contains a very little amount of phosphorus and potassium compared to other whole grains. These are also a good source of vitamin B, magnesium, iron, and manganese.
- Onions
They are an excellent source of providing sodium-free flavor to the dishes. Adding onion and garlic to your dishes will increase their flavor without compromising the health of the kidney. Onions contain a high level of vitamin C, vitamin B, manganese, and also contains prebiotic fibers that are healthy for your digestive system.
- Arugula
Many green vegetables like spinach and kale are high in potassium and cannot be consumed by a person having kidney disease. However, arugula is a good alternative that is low in potassium and is a good source of vitamin K, manganese, and calcium. It also contains nitrates, which help in reducing blood pressure.
These kidney-friendly healthy foods are excellent choices for people having renal diseases as well as health-conscious people. So, from today onwards start consuming these kidney-friendly foods and also suggest them to your near and dear ones keeping kidneys healthy.
