Kidneys, the small organs in the lower abdomen, are critical for your overall health. They filter waste in your blood and facilitate their removal through the urine. Kidneys also balance your electrolytes and fluid levels. While kidneys operate independently, concerns such as high blood pressure and diabetes can impact their functionality. Your diet can also help or put more pressure on the kidneys, which can cause damage. Through routine visits, Tsegaw E Egziti M.D can help monitor your kidneys, spot any developing issues, and implement effective intervention and/or treatment measures. Besides the tests and treatments, the professional can offer insights to help you adopt a healthier lifestyle, including dietary measures. Here is a glance at some kidney-friendly foods that can help improve your kidneys and overall health.
Water
Dehydration is among the fastest ways to cause kidney damage. Your cells use water to transport toxins into the bloodstream, and the kidneys, too, rely on water to filter the waste and create urine to facilitate their removal. Maintaining good hydration levels is kidney-friendly, facilitating smooth flow. Don’t wait until thirst kicks in, especially during warmer or humid seasons or working out.
Leafy greens
Dark leafy greens like chard, kale, and spinach are a great addition to your diet. They are rich in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and fibers. They also contain high potassium levels, meaning that watching the amount consumed is advised if you are at an increasingly high risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), on dialysis, or under a restricted diet.
Fruits
Fresh fruits are a great inclusion in any dietary regimen. They are an especially amazing snack that can give you the energy boost you need to keep your day going. Items such as apples and dark berries are kidney-friendly. The berries are packed with antioxidants, helping protect your cells from damage. On the other hand, apples include pectin, a fiber that helps lower kidney damage risk factors such as high cholesterol and glucose levels.
Fatty fish
Tuna and salmon, among other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are a great addition to your kidney-friendly diet regimen. Replenishing your body with omega-3 fats helps reduce kidney damage risk factors, including high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium. Unlike white potatoes, the high-fiber content means sweet potatoes’ breakdown is slower, which helps avoid insulin spikes. While the minerals like potassium help in balancing sodium levels. Note that sweat potatoes’ high concentration can work against you. This is more so if you are on dialysis or battling CKD.
Knowing what to include in your kidney-friendly diet is a great starting point, and it also helps if you know what to avoid or limit. Ideally, limiting foods rich in potassium, phosphorous, calcium, and sodium is advisable. Working with your doctor will also help, especially if you have CKD or other conditions putting you at higher risk of kidney damage. Visit or call Houston Kidney Specialists Center today for more on diet and other lifestyle measures to help keep your kidneys healthier.
