Home Remedies For Keeping A Kidney Healthy

Home Remedies for Keeping a Kidney Healthy

Jun 30, 2010 | By Owen Pearson

A variety of factors may contribute to poor kidney health, according to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Toxins from the environment, foods and prescription drugs can damage the kidneys. Health disorders, including high blood pressure, liver disease, lupus and diabetes, can also place stress on the kidneys. Several home remedies are thought to help maintain kidney health. These remedies are not designed to take the place of conventional medical treatment. Check with your doctor before using a home remedy for your kidneys.

Raw Foods

A raw food diet can help support kidney health by placing less stress on the digestive system; Dr. Balch recommends a diet of about 75 percent organic raw foods. Organic raw foods introduce fewer toxins into your body than meats and fast foods. Some raw foods, such as watermelon, contain a large amount of water, which helps flush out the kidneys. Other good raw foods for kidney health include sprouts, leafy greens, cucumbers, garlic and papaya.

Limit Protein

According to the Mayo Clinic, low-protein foods place less stress on the kidneys. This is because the kidneys must excrete more chemicals to break down high-protein foods. Limit your intake of meats, eggs, dairy products and beans and replace these foods with cereals, whole-grain breads and pasta, vegetables and fruits.

Avoid Salt

Salt and other sources of sodium may dehydrate the body, placing additional strain on the kidneys, according to Dr. Balch. Many convenience foods, such as canned soups, fast food meals and frozen prepackaged dinners contain high levels of sodium, notes the Mayo Clinic. You should also avoid processed meats and cheeses, salty snacks and canned vegetables to help support optimal kidney health.

Limit Potassium

High potassium levels may also contribute to poor kidney health, according to the Mayo Clinic. Limit your intake of foods such as bananas, oranges, tomatoes and potatoes to lower potassium levels. Substitute these foods with low-potassium foods such as carrots, cabbage, grapes, strawberries and fresh green beans.