Diet plays the key role in preventing, treating or alleviating the symptoms of any disease. All-natural foods provide nutritional benefits but some of them are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and are termed as Super foods. The foods that protect against oxidation are considered excellent choices for dialysis patients or people with Chronic Kidney Disease. A kidney friendly diet protects the kidney from further damage.
A diet low in Potassium, Phosphorous and sodium is highly recommended for kidney patients. When the kidneys are not working properly, the potassium levels may be too high or too low which can lead to muscle cramps etc. Same with phosphorous levels. Too much phosphorous in the blood can lead to weak bones that break easily. Limiting some foods and fluids is needed so that certain minerals do not built up in the body but at the same time there should be right balance of proteins, calories, vitamins and minerals in the diet of kidney patients.
The best-known foods or superfoods to treat kidney failure
are listed below:
Contents
Healthy Foods for Kidney
Carrots
Carrots top the list of superfoods for kidney patients. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene which is a water-soluble form of Vitamin A. It helps the kidney filter toxins out of the blood and prevent urinary trac infections. Foods rich in beta carotene are known to reduce inflammation and repair the tubules of kidneys. Carrots also contain a soluble fiber called pectin that acts as a diuretic. Pectin also decreases creatinine levels. Carrots may be eaten as is or cooked as a dish. Carrot juice may also be given to the patients to maintain healthy hemoglobin level.
Pumpkin and Bottle Gourd
Pumpkin is a great source of beta-carotene, fiber, iron and potassium. It is great for kidney patients who are not on restricted potassium diet.
Bottle Gourd is considered safe and beneficial for kidney patients as it helps in preventing urinary tract infections. Bottle Gourd is known to relieve swellings due to its diuretic nature, it can flush out excess water from the body and relieve edema.
Bottle Gourd is often recommended to kidney patients who are unable to sleep well due to muscle cramps or pressure as it helps them to sleep better. Bottle Gourd may be consumed as a cooked dish or the juice may be extracted. It is great to keep the heart healthy as it regulates the blood pressure.
Bottle Gourd is known to improve blood circulation and increases blood flow to the damage kidneys thereby it blocks blood clotting and removes stasis.
Thus, it is an excellent remedy to bring uric acid levels down and overcome symptoms like anemia, weakness. Kidney patients are advised to include Ridge Guard, Round Guard, Radish, turnip, ginger, peas (boiled before use) in their normal diet.
Red Bell Peppers
Are an excellent source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Folic acid and fiber. They are low in potassium and contains lycopene, an antioxidant that protects our body against certain cancers.
Red Bell Peppers may be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a dish. They can be added to the omelet or stuffed with other vegetables.
Cabbage
Cabbage is loaded with phytochemicals that break up free radicals. Cabbage is a good source of Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, vitamin C, folic acid and also low in potassium, phosphorous and sodium which makes it one of the best options for kidney patients.
Cabbage provides insoluble fiber that keeps the digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements and adding bulk to the stools.
Cabbage can be consumed raw, or steamed or even prepared as a dish. It helps in fostering cardiovascular health and protect against cancer.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a very nutritious vegetable that is high in nutrients and vitamins (especially vitamin C, Vitamin K and Folate). Cauliflower is loaded with anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, glucosinolates and thiocyanates and is also an excellent source of fiber. The compounds in cauliflower helps the liver neutralize toxic substances that could damage cell membranes and DNA.
Cauliflower may be made into a dish or consumed raw or steamed /boiled. Mashed cauliflower dish is also a good option for kidney patients.
Olive Oil
It is also recommended for kidney patients. Olive oil is a great source of oleic acid which makes it an excellent anti-inflammatory oil. It is also rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. Sunflower oil may also be used in cooking.
Cilantro and Fenugreek/Methi
Are very useful for kidney patients as they both helps in removing toxins from the body. The antioxidant benefit of cilantro makes it a good remedy for kidney patients as it helps in preventing diabetes related kidney damage.
Fenugreek seeds protects against the development of kidney stones. They also help in preventing diabetic related kidney problems. It also deals with anemia.
Herbs like black pepper, cardamom, mint, bay leaves are very useful for kidney patients. Tapioca Sago is also wonderful to be included in the diet. The kidney patient benefits a lot with Green Grass Juice.
One may consume wheat, rice and low-fat milk but should avoid heavy dairy products like cheese and curds.
Superfoods protect the body against undesirable fatty acid oxidation and are recommended in kidney diet to overcome inflammation. Watching what you eat and drink helps you to stay healthier. Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet helps control blood pressure and blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of kidney disease from getting worse.
Our kidneys filter about 50 gallons of blood on a daily basis and produces about 2 quarts of urine every day, so it is very important to consume enough water, have adequate rest and eat a well-balanced diet.
Kidney disease is strongly linked to other health issues like diabetes, hypertension and heart problems. People suffering from obesity, autoimmune disease and urinary tract infections are at a higher risk of developing kidney diseases.
