The kidneys are paired organs that help keep your blood clean and in proper chemical balance. Every day, your kidneys sift through roughly 200 quarts of blood and eliminate about 2 quarts of waste product and added water, according to the National Kidney Urologic and Disease Information Clearinghouse, or NKUDIC. If your kidney function is damaged due to injuries, illness or poisoning, a healthy diet can support your wellness during and after medical treatments. For best results, seek specified guidance from your doctor.
Protein-Rich Foods
Protein provides amino acids -- the building blocks of lean tissue. Protein-rich foods also enhance tissue repair, which is important if your kidneys are healing from an injury or illness, and strong immune system function, which protects your kidneys from infections. If you have kidney disease, your doctor may suggest a low-protein diet as a means of reducing the waste content of your blood. Regardless, it's important to reap protein from animal-derived sources, such as lean meats, poultry, fish and low-fat dairy products, and plant sources, such as legumes, according to the National Kidney Foundation. If your doctor has suggested limiting dairy products or particular beans, which are high in the mineral phosphorus, choose meat, fish and poultry most often. Fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring and sardines, provide omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce inflammation.
Whole Grains
Whole grains, such as whole wheat, bulgur, millet, oats, brown rice, wild rice and popcorn, provide rich amounts of nutrients and fiber. Whole grains are helpful dietary tools for managing your blood pressure. This is important since high blood pressure increases your risk for kidney damage, according to the NKUDIC. For best results, replace refined carbohydrate sources, such as enriched breads, cereals, pasta and snack foods, with whole grain equivalents most often. When purchasing breads and cereals, check food packaging to ensure that whole grains are listed as primary ingredients.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats, such as olive oil, canola oil, nuts, seeds and avocados, help your body absorb certain nutrients, enhance brain function and provide energy for low- to moderate-intensity exercise. Dietary limitations involved with kidney disease can lead to poor caloric intake. In these cases, the National Kidney Foundation recommends eating more dietary fats, which are dense in calories, to prevent unintentional weight loss, weakness and nutrient deficiencies. Incorporate healthy fats into your meals and snacks regularly for maximum benefits.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants, which help your body protect itself from infections and disease. Antioxidant-rich foods may also enhance recovery from kidney-related health problems. The NKUDIC recommends emphasizing fruits and vegetables in your diet if you have early-stage chronic kidney disease for healthy blood pressure management and reduced risk for kidney damage. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, carrots, squash and sweet potatoes.
