Best Foods to Support Kidney Function

Best Foods to Support Kidney Function

For those with CKD, these foods and drinks below are just a handful to focus on, but are some of the best and most recommended. They’re also great choices for those that are looking to take care of their kidneys without causing too much water loss within the body.

The kidneys are very delicate organs which filter the blood — 24/7 — over the course of a lifetime. Therefore, it really helps to conduct a regular cleanse either by way of one’s diet or our natural food intake.

The foods that are particularly well suited for keeping the kidneys clean are as follows (all preferably organic):

Water

Obviously, H20 is the best ingredient for overall water balance in the body. No need to go overboard, but aim for the classic 6-8 glasses a day depending on your body weight. If you’re more active, you will likely need additional water, while some may need a glass or two less. Water helps flush out toxins that can lead to bacterial infection or kidney stones, along with harmful particles in the blood. Remember that water is the absolute  best “cleanser” of all you can be consuming, no detox needed!

Olive Oil

Like fish, olive oil provides a healthy serving of nutrient dense, unsaturated fats. Olive oil is also the basis for the ‘Mediterranean Diet.’ A recent study found individuals suffering from chronic kidney disease who adopted this diet experienced improvements in both symptoms and survival. The active components in olives improve the life of those suffering from chronic kidney disease and will certainly provide kidney support to those looking to maintain kidney health.

Onions (and Garlic!)

Both onions and garlic contain quercetin. Quercetin is a powerful flavonoid associated with antioxidant benefits and potency against redness and irritation. Research has found quercetin helps provide protection against kidney damage for smokers. For non-smokers, the bonus protection provided by quercetin combined with improved fat metabolism helps protect the body’s filters. If you already enjoy these foods regularly, know that you’re doing your kidneys a favor. Improving your diet is always the best way to improve nutrition. If this proves impractical, then you may want to add a reliable kidney health supplement to your diet.

Apples

Apples are another lower potassium fruit that also aid as a natural cleanser for the body. They’ll still keep your kidneys cleansed without causing too frequent urination. Apples are another source of protective Vitamin C, as well as the antioxidant quercetin, tied to heart health and cancer prevention. They’re also a great source of pectin, a type of soluble fiber that’s wonderful for diabetics since it slows down the blood sugar and removes excess cholesterol.

Mushrooms

Vitamin D is an important mineral for good kidney health and mushrooms are the best whole food, plant-based source. Vitamin D has been found to regulate kidney function and may help prevent kidney disease. Fortified soy milk and almond milk may be other good options, however make sure the potassium content isn’t over 200-300 milligrams if you have kidney disease.

Grapefruits

Grapefruits are another good source of Vitamin C, an important mineral for the immune system and preventing bacteria development in the body. They’re also one of the fruits that are lower in potassium and sugar, which makes them an excellent source of nutrients for your kidneys.

Oat

Though oatmeal is higher in potassium than some other grains, it’s also lower than many fruits and vegetables. Oats are particularly a good source of iron and Vitamin B6, which have both been found to be an important nutrient for preventing kidney stones and preventing nutrient depletion for those with CKD.

100 Percent Cranberry Juice

Normally, fruit juice isn’t the best option for beverage choices since it’s mainly sugar, water, and preservatives, however, 100 percent cranberry juice (preferably organic and only fruit and water-based) is a great option for clearing out the kidneys. Cranberries are a super star fruit for your arteries, kidneys, digestive tract and more. If you don’t believe in store bought options, then juice your own cranberries or blend with water and strain with a nut milk bag.

Cranberries

You can, of course, eat cranberries, to protect your kidneys too. They’re excellent sources of Vitamin C, antioxidants, fiber, and again, very low in sugar. These berries have special urinary tract benefits since they prevent ulcers and bacteria from developing and even fight current ulcers bacteria in the kidneys and digestive tract. Remember, it’s best to choose fresh cranberries, but since they’re not in season all year (sadly), you can also choose freeze-dried cranberries or dried cranberries that contain no added sugar (read the labels). Add these to your oatmeal, smoothies, whole grain porridge, or even salads for a fresh, tart taste.

Java Tea

Also known as Orthosiphon stamineus, this herb has been a standard of folk medicine for a long time. It is typically used for kidney disorders. A recent study has confirmed it to support the kidneys, as well as the liver and gastrointestinal tract. It also offers potentials for blood sugar stabilization, antioxidant protection, and blood pressure stabilization.

Red Bell Peppers

Normally, potassium is promoted as a healthy ingredient for people to consume because it flushes out the kidneys and eliminates water from the body, however, for those with kidney disease, potassium can make thirst and frequent urination worse because the bladder empties too often. Red bell peppers are one of the best lower potassium fruits to choose and are a good source of protective Vitamin C. They also contain a good amount of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps ward off certain types of cancers in individuals with a healthy diet.

Kale

Kale is a fantastic source of Vitamins A and C to prevent inflammation and protect the immune system. It’s also lower in potassium than some other vegetables and greens and contains a large amount of iron. Iron is important for healthy kidney function since many people with kidney disease have an iron deficiency.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is known for its ability to help regulate glucose levels. This can help the body manage glucose better and offer protection from blood sugar disorders. Excess glucose that results from diabetes can cause damage to the kidneys. Another study confirmed that cinnamon could be used as a supplement without concern for increased oxalate risk.

Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are known as an effective home remedy for kidney stones. In ancient times, the pods served as a medicinal tonic.

To reduce kidney stone pain- remove the beans from the pods and in a slow cooker, boil the pods in purified water for 6 hours. Once finished, strain the liquid and let it cool before drinking. Drink throughout the day.