Kidneys filter the body's waste products, excess fluid and minerals, such as phosphorus and potassium, and excrete them as urine. They produce hormones that maintain bone strength and keep blood healthy. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases explains that poor kidney functioning may lead to hypertension, fluid retention and reduced red blood cells. Proper diet and nutrition may help improve or maintain the health of your kidneys.
Milk and Cheese
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases advises that foods such as milk and cheese contain high levels of phosphorus and may be detrimental in individuals with kidney failure. Although milk and cheese are traditionally a good source of calcium, the Linus Pauling Institute infers that the high levels of phosphorus outweigh the benefit due to the inability of failing kidneys to excrete enough phosphorus to maintain adequate levels of serum calcium. Through a complex process involving suppressed vitamin D conversion by the kidneys, the increased serum phosphorus may pull minerals from bones, making them brittle and possibly causing arthritis. Colas, dried beans, chocolate and nuts also contain significant amounts of phosphorus.
Raisins, Nuts and Prunes
Individuals experiencing problems with kidney functioning may have difficulties with foods high in the mineral boron. According to MedlinePlus, boron may help build your bones and muscles, but kidneys need to work exceptionally hard to excrete boron from your body. The University of Michigan Health System lists raisins, nuts and prunes as high in boron. Vegetables and fruit may contain some boron depending on the content of the soil where they are grown.
Fish
The kidneys play a key role in the production of several hormones including the active form of vitamin D, or calcitrol, explains the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Supplementing your diet with foods high in vitamin D may help maintain good kidney health. Foods containing vitamin D are pink salmon, sardines, mackerel and fortified foods such as orange juice and cereals.
References
- The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Kidney Failure: Choosing a Treatment That's Right for You
- MedlinePlus: Boron
- University of Michigan Health System: Boron
- The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: The Kidneys and How They Work
- Linus Pauling Institute: Phosphorus
