Acting as an advanced waste removal system for the body, healthy functioning kidneys remove up to 2 quarts of refuse and excess water every day. Adhering to a nutritious diet will provide healthful fuel for the body systems without over-burdening the organs of the renal system, such as the kidneys. Certain foods and herbs are known to provide extra support to the kidneys.
Cauliflower
Add this cruciferous vegetable from the cabbage family to your diet, and reap the benefits. Enzymes in cauliflower aid the liver and kidneys in the detoxification processes, according to the information website YourKidneys.com. For those individuals using dialysis machines, this kidney supporting veggie can be used as a tasty substitute for mashed potatoes, when steamed.
Red Bell Peppers
Slice, steam, or stir-fry this colorful veggie and add to sandwiches, salads or a main dish for a kidney supportive diet. Featuring low levels of potassium, red bell peppers are an especially good food source for individuals with current kidney problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control, red peppers contain 11 times more beta carotene than green bell peppers.
Cranberries
Packed with health-empowering nutrients called proanthocyanidins, the small but might cranberry is effective in cleansing and preventing infections of the urinary tract. A research letter published in the June 19, 2002, edition of "The Journal of the American Medical Association" reported that not only are cranberry proanthocyanidins able to inhibit the adhesion of antibiotic susceptible bacteria, but resistant strains as well.
Couchgrass
Unrecognized by many for its herbal healing properties, couchgrass is often mistaken as a useless weed. The roots of this herb can be roasted and ground just like coffee, then sipped to provide relief and even partial dissolution of kidney stones. The herb also acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
Green Tea
The young leaves of the green tea plant harbor antioxidants known to prevent kidney stones. A 2006 study using rats at the Seoul National University College of Medicine and Clinical Research Institute found that green tea leaves in the water source of rats significantly lowered crystals in the kidneys.
Parsley
A favorite tool of the culinary artist, parsley has more to offer than its decorative eye appeal. Considered both a food and herb, this popular little plant assists the renal system and kidneys in a variety of ways. In her book, "Living Food For Health," Dr. Gillian McKeith says of parsley, "It prevents salt from being reabsorbed into the body tissues; thus parsley literally forces debris out of the kidneys, liver and bladder. It helps improve oedema and general water retention, fatigue and scanty or painful urination."
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