Kidneys are crucial for filtering out waste and excess fluid from the blood and removing it through urine. In doing so, they also regulate the mineral balance of the body. Additionally, they produce and release hormones that regulate blood pressure, calcium concentration, red blood cell production, etc.
Nutrition and diet play a significant role in managing kidney disorders. Although, it is a progressive disorder, and may lead to serious complications if not paid proper attention. The current write up is intended to provide more information on balanced diet to patients, who have been suffering with chronic kidney disorders; and minimize the burden on their kidneys.
Here are some kidney-friendly foods to help manage chronic kidney disease
Garlic
Since traditions, garlic has been acknowledged to be the most powerful antioxidant, which is helpful in reducing inflammation. Studies could also configure its increasing role in reducing renal reperfusion, i.e. accumulation of toxic wastes in the body; and hence is directly being associated with reduced evidences of kidney failure and kidney related mortality.
Capsicum
Capsicums are identified to be highly nutritious food supplements that are helpful in reducing the production of free radicals in your body. These free radicals are evidently responsible for damage at tissue level and cellular level, leading to more serious health related complications. Besides, they are also useful in building healthy immune system that can prevent you from multiple autoimmune disorders.
Strawberries
These tasty fruits have been found to have anti inflammatory and anti carcinogenic properties; making them the most opted natural food supplements. They are being identified to be powerful in reducing production of toxic compounds, thus can be helpful in minimizing burden on our kidneys.
Turmeric
In many countries of the world, the wonder spice of India; turmeric is highly appreciated for its antifungal, anti inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. You can very well incorporate it in your day to day diet; apart from adding flavor to the food, it has number of health benefits listed above. For those, whose diet does not contain turmeric can have through turmeric supplements that are available in capsule or tincture form as well.
Ginger
Ginger is identified as an excellent herb, which can improve functional attributes of kidneys. They are helpful in food digestion, improvement in blood purification and increase in the flow of oxygenated blood towards kidneys. Those, who are suffering with urinary discomfort, can get lot of relief, if they regularly consume ginger.
Ginger
Carrots essentially contain water soluble vitamin A, known to be Beta carotene. Studies have investigated it to be helpful in filtering toxins from the blood, through a process of purification and further allow prevention of urinary tract infections. Besides, they contain higher concentration of pectin, which is involved in reduction of creatinine level, which is identified to be the marker significantly showing kidney related stress and functional issues. Scientists have further suggested pectin to be natural therapy for chronic kidney disorders.
Foods to Avoid
Generally, patients with kidney failure should reduce foods containing sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Chronic Kidney disorders increase the levels of these minerals. Therefore, the intake of food containing these minerals further increases their levels, leading to excess build-up. It can interfere with normal body functions. Below is a list of foods that should be avoided during kidney diseases:
Whole Wheat Bread
Whole wheat bread is a common addition to breakfast. However, it contains high levels of potassium and phosphorus. Therefore, it should be either removed from breakfast or its intake should be reduced for kidney patients.
Fruits
Bananas are known for their high potassium concentration, and oranges are potassium-rich fruits. Many other fruits, although healthy, are harmful in the case of kidney disorders. Thus, it is recommended to opt for alternatives such as pineapples, apples, grapes, etc.
Dairy or dairy products
Milk has been a long-known source of phosphorus and therefore has been promoted for health. However, such dairy products prove unfavorable for patients with kidney disease. Thus, their use should be limited in dietary intake.
Salty Foods
Processed foods like pizza, chips, noodles, etc., contain high salt. Their intake elevates the sodium levels in the body. Potato-based items augment the potassium content. Therefore, patients with kidney problems should refrain from such food items.
Spinach
Spinach is a highly recommendable food item for adequate nutrition. However, it contains potassium, which limits its use in the diets of kidney patients. Many other green leafy vegetables also have high potassium levels and, therefore, should be avoided.
However, kidney diseases and reduced functional attributes may lead to severe functional complications and hence, should never been ignored. Although available treatment options for chronic kidney disorders are dialysis and kidney transplants in extreme cases, depending upon the physical condition and stage of kidney failure, stem cell therapy is the most acknowledged option in managing kidney issues and reducing their progressive damage.
FAQs
Q: What is the function of the kidneys?
The kidneys are responsible for eliminating waste and removing excess fluid through urine. They also produce hormones that control blood pressure and calcium levels.
Q: What foods are recommended for kidney disorders?
The addition of garlic, turmeric, capsicum, carrots, and strawberries is advisable for patients suffering from kidney disorders.
Q: What minerals should be avoided in kidney disorders?
Intake of potassium, sodium, and phosphorus should be avoided due to their high levels already present in the body during kidney damage.
Q: What foods should not be eaten in kidney disorder?
Patients with kidney damage should reduce their intake of dairy products, spinach, certain fruits, whole wheat bread, etc.
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