Renal

Kidney Health

The kidneys filter waste from everything consumed, and regulate vitamins and nutrients including protein, potassium, sodium, water, electrolytes, and minerals.

The kidneys clean all of the blood in the body every 30 minutes, and pass waste to the bladder as urine.

Foods that overwork or damage the kidneys are high in:

Sodium. Over 140 mg per serving, such as fast foods, vegan meats, soy and rice-based cheeses, and low-sodium with potassium chloride additives.

Protein. Excess animal proteins produce more waste for the kidneys to filter. Reduce intake of red and processed meats.

Potassium additives are absorbed faster than the natural potassium in fruits and vegetables.
Cooking foods in water can lower the potassium levels in foods.

Phosphorus. Highly processed items such as soft drinks, frozen food, snacks and enriched dairy, cheese, and non-dairy plant-based milks and yogurts with additives.

Foods that ease the work of the kidneys are:

lean proteins
low in salt
high in antioxidants

Vegetables high in antioxidants improve immunity, reduce inflammation, help control blood sugar, and are rich in vitamins A, B, C and K:

  • Red Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamins A, C, B6, and fiber, while being low in potassium.
  • Cauliflower & Cabbage: Good sources of Vitamin C, folate, fiber, and low in potassium.
  • Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and arugula offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but monitor potassium if you have kidney issues.
  • Garlic & Onions: Provide flavor with anti-inflammatory compounds and flavonoids, great for reducing sodium intake.
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots

*potatoes are high in potassium and should be consumed in moderation.

Almost all fruits are good for the kidneys due to fiber content, vitamins, and antioxidants, especially: 

  • Apples: High in fiber and anti-inflammatory compounds.
  • Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, cranberries are packed with antioxidants and low in potassium.
  • Red Grapes & Cherries: Contain antioxidants like resveratrol, supporting kidney health and reducing inflammation.
  • Pineapple: Contains the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain.
  • Oranges

*bananas are high in potassium and should be consumed in moderation.

Plant-based proteins are low in fat, high in fiber, nutrients, and regulate blood sugar:

  • beans
  • lentils
  • peas
  • seeds
  • nuts
  • Unsalted peanuts
  • nut butters
  • flax
  • chia seeds (omega-3 healthy fats)

*Chia seeds are high in oxalates which contribute to kidney stones.

  • Tofu
  • Tempeh
  • Seitan
  • Soy milk
  •  
  • Milk
  • Low-fat yogurts
  • Kefir
  • Cheese
  • Almond
  • Rice
  • Oat milk

Whole grains are reliable sources of fiber, vitamins, important minerals such as magnesium and zinc, help manage weight while maintaining energy, and help treat and manage kidney disease:

  • Barley
  • Bulgur
  • Brown rice
  • Whole-wheat bread
  • Quinoa

Lean animal proteins:

  • Skinless chicken
  • Fatty Fish: Salmon, tuna, mackerel are rich in heart-healthy Omega-3s.
  • Shellfish
  • Egg Whites: A good, low-phosphorus protein source.
  • Olive Oil: A heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory fat.

Spices & Herbs are rich in antioxidants, minerals, low in sodium, and helps with kidney conditions, including stones.

  • Turmeric

Water is crucial for flushing waste.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Diseases:

Many kidney ailments are felt as a pain in the lower back, typically on one side.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, 1 in 7 adults in the US have kidney disease, but 90% are not aware of it.

 

The following can contribute to kidney disease:

Kidney stones are an accumulation of minerals that bind, when kidneys lack fluid to dilute and flush them out.

A stone blocking waste from leaving the kidneys could develop into a damaging infection.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) almost always occurs in the urethra and bladder, but can spread to the kidneys, causing severe pain in the lower back, nausea, and fever.

Kidney cancer occurs when cells mutate and grow into tumors that overwhelm healthy cells, and is among the 10 most common forms of cancer.

Men are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop it.

Kidney cancer can increase the risk of kidney disease, and vice versa.

Summary:

Foods that are good for kidneys, are also good for the heart, brain, digestion, and even for sleep.

Choose fresh foods and monitor sodium, protein, potassium & phosphate intake.

Sources:

6 Foods That Are Good for Your Kidneys, and You

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/kidney-renal-diet-recipes/rcs-20522796

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/expert-answers/renal-diet/faq-20058205

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