The main function of your kidneys is to rid your body of unnecessary wastes and excess fluids. If your kidneys are unhealthy or become damaged, then toxic wastes and fluids build up in your blood, which can be fatal if not properly treated. Maintaining healthy kidneys helps prevent serious health complications like chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D allows your gastrointestinal tract to absorb calcium and dissolve it into blood for tissue function and bone metabolism. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, deficiencies in vitamin D lead to a decreased absorption of calcium and your body responds by releasing calcium from your bones. This process leads to increased blood phosphorus, which is released from your bones along with the calcium. Your kidneys have to work hard to remove the phosphorus from your blood, which can lead to kidney damage or chronic kidney disease.
Vitamin D can be synthesized by specialized skin cells following exposure to sunlight, or you can get it from dietary sources like dairy products, vegetables, fish and vitamin D-fortified foods. You should get enough vitamin D if you eat a well-balanced diet, but your doctor may suggest vitamin D supplements if she is concerned about a deficiency.
Vitamin C
Uric acid, which is a metabolic byproduct, is normally filtered out of the blood through the kidneys. However, elevated blood uric acid levels can lead to the formation of uric acid crystals in your joints, connective tissue and kidneys. The resulting crystals cause a arthritic condition called gout within the joints and potentially painful kidney stones in the kidneys. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, vitamin C may help reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is not made by your body; you must obtain it from dietary sources like fruits and vegetables, or from dietary supplements.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 helps maintain the adequate number of red blood cells in your body. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all of your organs and tissues so they function properly. An inadequate number of red blood cells can lead to a condition called anemia. Anemia can be caused by kidney damage or kidney disease because your kidneys are responsible for telling the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. Deficiencies in vitamin B12 can contribute to anemic conditions.
Food sources of vitamin B12 include fish, shellfish, meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. You may also consider vitamin B12 supplements under the advice and consultation of your primary care provider.
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