Healthy Kidney Diet

Our kidneys, that are located below the rib cage on either side of the spine, work as filters to remove waste products and excess water in the body through urine. Several symptoms may be noticed if the condition of the kidneys begins to deteriorate for several reasons. Some of these symptoms include itching all over the body, general tiredness, discoloration of or blood and pus in the urine, reduced urine amount, appetite loss, nausea and vomiting. Hands and feet also tend to swell because of water retention. Muscle cramps and darkened skin are other symptoms of kidney disease. In order to control the deterioration of the kidneys, it is imperative that one follows an appropriate diet. It is also important to understand when one may be at risk of developing a kidney disease, in order to be able to follow a suitable diet.

When Are You at a Risk of Kidney Disease?

One may be at a risk of kidney disease when one suffers from any of the following.

• A person may be susceptible to contracting kidney disease when one suffers from diabetes.
• People suffering from high blood pressure may develop kidney problems.
• Chain smokers are bound to suffer from kidney dysfunction.
• If one has a family history of kidney disease, one is more prone to suffering from the same.
• Kidney disease is also common in people who are obese, and in people who are above 50 years of age.

By following the diet for healthy kidneys mentioned below, one may reduce the risk of contracting Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Even for those who already endure the same, this diet will help reduce the effects of the disease. However, it is important to note that if you are on dialysis or have had a kidney transplant, this diet is not for you to follow. Under any circumstance in relation to kidney problems, it is important that you consult your doctor for a safe and healthy diet plan.

Diet for Healthy Kidneys

Persons with kidney problems are required to follow a diet low in proteins, which should also be low in sodium and potassium. For those who have diabetes along with conditions of the kidney, one must also follow a low-carb diet. Mentioned below are some guidelines to avoid certain nutrients, and consume some others in order to be able to follow a diet for healthy kidneys.

Sodium
Sodium is a nutrient that controls blood pressure and also the fluids in the body. When the intake of sodium is high, it leads to water retention, thereby causing excess water to collect in the kidneys, thus affecting kidney function. To control sodium intake:

• Limit the intake of table salt in the food you eat.
• Apart from table salt, there are various foods high in sodium levels such as crisps, crackers and processed foods. Try to avoid the intake of such foods.
• It is wise to read the nutrition facts of any food product before purchasing it. These facts enlist the exact amount of sodium present in the product.
• Sodium is also present in foods under the name monosodium glutamate (MSG). Keep a watch for such ingredients in packaged foods.

Proteins
Impaired kidney function is caused by excess consumption of proteins. It is true that proteins help build muscle and repair tissues in the body. However, excess proteins increase the stress on the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney dysfunction.

• Surplus proteins have been detected mainly in non-vegetarians, as meat contains significant amounts of protein. As such, it is sensible to abstain from eating such products.
• By consuming more vegetables and fibrous foods, the kidneys can work towards eliminating extra protein as well as toxins in the body. The intake of vegetables will also help lower the risk of high blood pressure and excess weight, two other factors that are responsible for kidney dysfunction.

Thus, limiting the intake of protein will help decrease the stress on the kidneys.

Increased Water Intake
Kidneys tend to become unhealthy, when there is lack of water in the body, as their primary function is to filter wastes and eliminate toxins through urine. As such, they require enough water to perform this function.

• It is important to drink at least 13-14 glasses or 3-4 liters of water in a day. Doing so will help flush out all the unnecessary toxins in the body.
• Several fruits and vegetables are also high in water content. Some of them are watermelon, cucumber, zucchini and tomatoes, which have about 90% water. Adding these to your diet is definitely helpful.
• Avoid drinking caffeinated products such as tea, coffee and soft drinks. Green tea may be permitted in limited amounts.

An increased intake of these vegetables high in water content along with required amounts of water can significantly control any kidney problems and constitute the elements for a healthy kidney diet.

Calcium and Phosphorus
These two minerals strike a balance when working together and help keep teeth and bones strong. When the kidney fails, there may be a collection of phosphorus in the kidneys, which is unsafe, while calcium may become low. As such, limiting foods high in the same, is essential.

• Some examples of foods high in phosphorus are, almonds, meat, lentils, dried fruits and cheese.
• Similarly, foods high in calcium such as bananas, tofu, spinach and broccoli need to be consumed. However, dairy products should be avoided as they are high in phosphorus.
• Limit phosphorus by avoiding the consumption of bran, cured meats, nuts, lentils and peanut butter.
• In some cases, additional supplements will be required to adjust the level of both calcium and phosphorus in the body.

Potassium
Potassium is a mineral that helps the kidneys function normally. When the kidneys fail, there may be a collection of potassium in the blood, which is bad for the muscles and mainly, the heart. As such, it is advisable to avoid potassium rich foods.

• Salt used to flavor meals, that are available in the market are very high in potassium. Try to substitute salt with other flavoring agents such as lemon and herbs.
• Low potassium fruits such as apples, pears, blueberries, and tangerines may be consumed.
• Other potassium rich foods to be avoided are papayas, white bread, oat bran, raw garlic and more.

Calories
Calories are important to health as they provide the energy that help us with our daily functions, and also help stabilize our body weight. When vegetarianism is followed, it controls the risk of one becoming overweight, which in turn, helps control the risk of contracting kidney disease. However, calories can be controlled by following a non-vegetarian diet too. In short, it is important to keep a watch on calories so as to control weight gain.

Foods to be Included in a Healthy Kidney Diet

Here are some foods that you may include in your diet for healthy kidneys.

• Red Bell Peppers
• Apples
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Cranberries
• Strawberries
• Cherries
• Asparagus
• Bean Sprouts
• Green Beans
• Iceberg Lettuce
• Green Beans
• Radishes
• Turnips
• Eggplant

By including these foods in your diet, you will be able to control any kidney problems or dysfunction.

These were some tips to follow a renal diet. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor as well as a dietitian when facing kidney problems. Do not self-diagnose or diagnose anyone else. Kidney problems are common and prevention is always better than cure. A good diet with regular exercise will go a long way in preventing one from kidney problems as well as any other health related issues.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informational purposes only, and does not intend to replace the advice of a medical expert. Any disease of the kidney is a sensitive condition, and a diet for it should be charted out only under the guidance of a qualified doctor and nutritionist.