Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs in the middle of the back below the ribs. They help remove waste and excess fluids from the body. Diabetes, genetics and high blood pressure are some of the major risk factors for kidney diseases. Apart from medications, kidney transplants and dialysis, certain vitamins and supplements also help improve kidney function and prevent kidney diseases.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant vitamin that is essential for growth, development, repair and maintenance of body tissues. Several studies, such as the one published in the September 2010 edition of "Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation," have found an association between reduced levels of vitamin C and kidney dysfunction. Vitamin C deficiency leads to increased concentration of harmful free radicals in the kidney tissues and leads to tissue damage. Vitamin C can be obtained from dietary sources such as citrus fruits, strawberries, green leafy vegetables and cantaloupes. Synthetic supplements of vitamin C are also available in most local pharmacies without a prescription. However, care should be taken while taking the supplements because an overdose can lead to upset stomach and diarrhea.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for healthy bones and can be obtained from foods such as dairy products, fish, oysters and fortified cereals. Significant amounts of vitamin D can also be produced endogenously by the human body on exposure to sunlight. However, modern, indoor lifestyle and fear of skin cancer is leading to vitamin D deficiency, and according to an article published by "The Medical News" in August 2008, researchers at Rockefeller University Hospital have found that vitamin D deficiency in patients with chronic kidney disease may increase their risk of death due to cardiovascular problems. The study found that intake of high doses of vitamin D supplements reduces the levels of endotoxins in the body of chronic kidney disease patients and significantly reduces the risk of heart disease. However, high doses of vitamin D supplements can lead to kidney stones, vomiting and muscle pains and should not be taken without consulting a physician.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant vitamin that has the ability to neutralize harmful free radicals that cause kidney damage, especially in patients with renal artery stenosis, which is the blockage of the arteries supplying blood to the kidneys. A study published online by "Hypertension" journal in August 2003 has revealed that intake of antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin E can reduce oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis associated with kidneys with reduced blood supply. Wheat germ, corn, nuts and olives are some foods rich in vitamin E. Synthetic vitamin E supplements are also available. However, chronic use of these supplements may increase the risk of death, so talk to a doctor before taking these supplements.
References
- "Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation"; Decreased Plasma Level of Vitamin C in Chronic Kidney Disease: Comparison Between Diabetic and Non-diabetic Patients; Nobuyuki Takahashi et al; September 2010
- The Medical News: Role of Vitamin D in Kidney Disease Examined
- "Hypertension"; Beneficial Effects of Antioxidant Vitamins on the Stenotic Kidney; Alejandro R. Chade et al; August 2003
