The kidneys act as the filtration system of our body.

The kidneys act as the filtration system of our body. They do an important task of removing the impurities from the blood, which is then eventually eliminated through the urine. Kidneys also maintain blood pressure as well as regulate blood composition. Kidney dysfunction can cause accumulation of toxins in the body, thereby damaging overall health. So, one can understand how important it is to keep kidneys healthy, which can be easily achieved by following a proper diet. Article given below discusses some aspects of best diet for healthy kidneys.

Good Diet for Healthy Kidneys

The best diet for healthy kidneys is one that contains foods rich in antioxidants. Basically, antioxidants are molecules that guards the body against attacks from free radicals. Our body cells require oxygen to function and when they use it, free radicals (a by-product of oxidation process) are released into the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that produce damaging effects in the body and trigger wide range of health issues related to the heart and the kidneys. Even diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s are a result of free radical damage.

In order to protect kidneys from the onslaught of free radicals, eating foods high in antioxidants on a daily basis is necessary. This will ensure healthy kidney function for a long time to come. Antioxidants are found in abundance in vegetables and fruits and hence form an integral part of healthy kidney diet plan. Also, raw vegetables do an excellent job of cleansing the kidneys. No wonder, a diet containing raw vegetable recipes (salad) is regarded as a kidney friendly diet. In fact, raw vegetables can help to combat kidney related problems effectively. It is discussed below:

Vegetables and Fruits
In order to promote efficient working of the kidneys, including variety of vegetables and fruits in the diet serves the purpose. Fruits with high water content encourage kidney detoxification. No wonder, eating these fruits is regarded as a simple solution for cleansing the kidneys. Vegetables and fruits that positively affect kidney function and are an inseparable part of best diet for healthy kidneys are given below:
Fruits like cranberries, red grapes, blueberries, oranges, watermelon, apples, cherries, strawberries and raspberries
Vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, spinach and asparagus Herbs
Including certain herbs in the diet is yet another way to cleanse the kidneys. Herbs can play a crucial role to maintain kidney health. They can assist kidneys to eliminate toxic waste matter from the blood. Some of the herbs for healthy kidney function are given below:
Parsley
Nettle
Garlic
Horsetail
Couch grass Water
Drinking sufficient water daily is equally important to cleanse the kidneys. Inadequate water consumption increases the risk of kidney stones and toxic build up in the kidneys. So, in order to facilitate toxic removal from the kidneys, drinking 5-8 glasses of water is a must.

Fish
Adding omega 3 essential fatty acid rich foods in the diet has also shown to significantly cut down the risk of kidney problems. However, eat fish in moderation as it is found to be high in proteins. Fish oil is rich in omega 3 acids and hence can also contribute to improve kidney function. Some studies show that fish oil is useful in the treatment of patients with chronic inflammatory diseases of the kidneys. Taking fish oil or eating fish in moderation can work wonders to keep kidneys in good condition.

Olive Oil
Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil is not only high in antioxidants but also a great source of omega 3 acids. So make sure meals are prepared in olive oil and instead of deep-frying opt for healthy cooking options like grilling, baking, broiling and stir frying.

Reduce Salt Intake
Best diet for healthy kidneys contain less salt. Studies show that excess of salt in the diet can have a negative impact on kidney health in the long run. A high sodium diet increases the risk of kidney problems in the early stages of life. Therefore eating salty processed foods have to be avoided or consumed in minimal amounts. Limiting or avoiding intake of salty snacks like potato chips, crackers is a wise decision and will work to prevent decline in kidney health.

Best Low Protein Diet for Kidney Disease

Although proteins are beneficial to health, patients with kidney problems are recommended to stay away from a high protein diet. The breakdown of protein creates waste matter that are not easy to remove from the body. The kidneys have to take extra effort in getting rid of this toxic matter from the blood. This overload can aggravate pre-existing kidney problems. Also, following a high protein diet for a long duration may damage kidney health.

On the other hand, a low protein diet is necessary for people diagnosed with unhealthy kidneys. An impaired kidney function finds it difficult to handle protein metabolism. Hence, people with kidney problems should keep a distance from high protein diet. So, cutting down consumption of fish, eggs, meat (beef, pork) and poultry products (chicken) is a must as these foodstuffs are rich in proteins. Having small portions of meat and focusing more on eating vegetables and fruits is an important facet of low protein diet.




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