27 Foods for Good Kidney Health

You may have heard that some foods are super important for good kidney health. While the idea of maintaining good kidney health  by eating specific foods is charming – the reality is not quite that simple.

 

Many people think that superfoods are foods that contain special, almost magical, qualities. While 27 foods are particularly more nutritious than others, no food is the magic answer for good kidney health.

Diet and Good Kidney Health

Dietary restrictions differ on the basis of the level of kidney damage. People having end-stage kidney disease will have different restrictions from those with early-stage kidney disease.

 

At any stage, the food will need to improve kidney function while decreasing the risk of further damage.

 

While dietary restrictions differ, people with renal disease commonly need to restrict the following nutrients. The kidneys may have trouble processing or removing these nutrients, and higher levels may cause damage to the body.

 

Nutrient	Amount
1. Sodium, the main ingredient in salt	1. Under 2 grams every day
2. Potassium	2. Restrictions depend on kidney disease stage
3. Phosphorous	3. 800 to 1,00mg per day
4. Protein	4. Limitations will depend on stage of kidney disease

 

 

Since kidney disease has a close relation with heart disease, it’s better to combine these choices with a diet healthy for health — one that has plenty of plant-based, fresh foods and is low in saturated fats.

 

27 Foods for Good Kidney Health

The experience of kidney disease varies from person to person, so it’s important to talk with a health care provider regarding your individual dietary needs.

 

Here are some foods that are helpful in maintaining good kidney health:

 

Pomegranates

Pomegranates are tart and sweet fruits high in antioxidants. Eating pomegranates can have many health benefits since they are high in vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin K, folate, fiber, and potassium. They also contain three times more antioxidants than green tea, which are helpful in reducing inflammation.

 

Avocado

Avocados are very nutrient-rich with almost 20 various minerals and vitamins. Avocados are higher in fat and lower in carbohydrates when compared to other fruits and a best source of fiber which is great for good gut health, aiding in blood sugar control and  keeping you full.

 

Tofu

Tofu has all the essential amino acids that are needed to make protein and provide your body with a lot of energy. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 healthy fats and is also rich in minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

 

Low Phosphorus Cheese

Many types of cheese are high in sodium and phosphorus. Some cheese types have low sodium and potassium contents. They are more beneficial for people with kidney disease. Cheese is a great source of protein, calcium, phosphorus,  vitamin B12, and vitamin A.

 

Milk Alternatives

Food like milk and milk alternatives are beneficial for good kidney health. There are a lot of milk alternatives on the market made from seeds, nuts, soy, oats, rice, and nuts. Milk alternatives contain lower levels of potassium and phosphorus than cow milk unless they have additives. They are excellent alternatives if you have high cholesterol levels or are lactose-intolerant and come in several forms like desserts and yogurt.

 

Healthy Oils and Fats

Healthy fats and oils are considered superfoods because it helps absorb some minerals and vitamins and build nerve tissue and cell membranes. It is also essential for muscle movement, blood clotting, and to lower inflammation. Healthy oils and fats can help lower the atherosclerosis and odds of heart disease by reducing LDL cholesterol.

 

Fish

Fish is known as a superfood because it is a good source of protein without having much saturated fat. They are also loaded with calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins, phosphorus, zinc and iron.

 

Spices

Spices improve the smell and flavor of food without adding salt. They are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

 

Strawberries

Strawberries are a fruit good for the kidney. Strawberries are delicious fruit that can be found fresh, freeze-dried, frozen, or in jams and jellies. Strawberries are also a good source of folate, manganese, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

 

Root Vegetables

Food like root vegetables are good for kidney health. Many root vegetables have antioxidants that can help to fight inflammation. They also provide various nutrients including vitamin A, many vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, potassium, iron, and manganese.

 

Broccoli

Broccoli is an excellent source of antioxidants that can enhance your health by improving blood sugar control, reducing inflammation, promoting heart health and boosting immunity.

 

Beans

Beans are low in fat and have no cholesterol, trans fat, or saturated fat, helping protect your heart from heart disease.

 

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds contain many useful elements like antioxidants, plant protein, fiber, heart-healthy fats, vitamin E, and more.  Food like nuts and seeds are good for kidney health.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are a fabulous source of minerals, vitamins, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.

 

Squash

Squash is a great source of essential nutrients for health like vitamin C and B6, fiber, and antioxidants.

 

Leafy Green

Leafy greens are one of those vegetables good for the kidney, packed with many antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, have low calories and a lot of fiber.

 

Herbs

Herbs provide flavor to food without the salt addition.

 

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, low in calories and have high fiber content.

 

Blueberries

List of fruits good for the kidney contain blueberries. A 1 ⁄ 2 cup serving of blueberries contain less than 150 milligrams of potassium making them a fruit choice containing less potassium. Blueberries are also low in phosphorus and sodium making them suitable for a kidney friendly diet. They are also safe to eat for all kidney conditions and treatments.

 

Apples

Apples help in maintaining acidity in urine and prevent bacterial growth inside the kidneys. Apples contain anti-inflammatory properties that help in healing kidney infections or issues quite efficiently.

 

Cherries

Cherries come in sour, sweet, and duke (partly sweet and sour) types, and can be bought fresh, dried, and frozen. Cherries can add tart or sweet flavor to desserts, salads, savory dishes, and smoothies. Choose cherries that are stiff with bright green stems. Darker colored cherries are most flavorful. The pits of cherries are toxic and should not be eaten.

 

Shellfish

Shellfish are food good for kidney health. Shellfish are aquatic invertebrates with shells. Common types include mussels, crab, shrimp, lobster,clams, oysters, and scallops. They add healthful nutrition and flavor to main dishes,salads, soups, and dips.

 

Açai berries

Açai (ah-sigh-EE) berries are small grape-like fruits and have a center pit native to the rainforest of South America.  They have a very short shelf life, so are commonly found as frozen fruit puree, powders, or pressed juice. Açai is generally used in acai berry bowls or in smoothies. Açai barriers has been shown to be a possibly effective arbitration for chronic kidney disease. This is mainly due to the flavonoid and alpha-tocopherol content of Acai.

 

Eggs

Eggs are a great source of animal protein and phosphorus. Eggs are low in potassium and sodium. So, it can be a great food choice for good kidney health.  Egg whites can be a better choice than whole eggs for people on a kidney diet, as egg yolks have high phosphorus content.

 

Yogurt

Yogurt is a very popular dairy product made by bacterial fermentation of milk.  Its rich and creamy texture makes it a favorite food for a lot of people.  It can be eaten in several ways: plain, mixed with granola and fruits, as a dip, or smoothie.

 

Yogurt is packed with protein,which is a nutrient in high demand for dialysis patients. It’s also a good source of vitamin D and calcium. Although high in phosphorus and potassium, dietitians usually recommend limiting to a 4-ounce portion if you are following a kidney diet.

 

Flax and Chia seeds

Flax and chia seeds are seeds that generally pack a nutritional punch.  Flax and chia seeds are available throughout the year at the grocery store and are usually found in the baking aisle, health foods section,or by the nuts.  Flaxseed can be used to increase absorption in your body. You can enjoy both flax and chia seeds sprinkled on salads, into hot cereal or yogurt, or in baked smoothies and goods.

 

Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which is an essential nutrient for the kidneys. Taking a sufficient amount of fiber helps with decreasing creatinine levels and blood urea nitrogen, which is important for preventing complications of chronic kidney disease. Due to this, flax and chia seeds are considered among the best foods for good kidney health.

 

Citrus

Vitamin C or citrus helps dissolve kidney stones easily. Foods that are rich in vitamin C improve kidney health, citrus fruits such as cucumber, orange, or broccoli are effective in keeping the kidney healthy.

 

What Fish is Good for Kidneys?

 Fish good for kidneys may include:

 

• Seafood Cod

• Catfish

• Salmon

• Whitefish

• Halibut

• Flounder

 

Kidney Infection Foods to Avoid

Kidney infection food to avoid usually include:

• Dried apricots

• Chocolate

• Bran and granola

• Lentils and beans, including canned baked beans

• Dairy products such as milk and yogurt.

• Peanut butter

• Nuts and seeds

• Molasses

 

Bad Food for Kidney Creatinine

Bad food for kidney creatinine are:

• Red meat

• Salty meals

• White bread

• Processed foods

• Sugary foods

• Caffeine

• Canned vegetables

• Foods containing high protein level