A diet that makes the kidneys work harder can exacerbate kidney disease or a condition characterized by stressed kidneys. The kidneys' functions include balancing electrolytes, minerals and fluid in the body and removing metabolic and toxic waste products. These functions help support healthy blood pressure and healthy blood composition. Foods that have high mineral content and other substances that create high levels of waste make the kidneys' tasks more difficult to execute, according to MedlinePlus.
High-Protein Foods
When the body digests protein, high levels of a toxic waste product called urea are produced. Kidneys are responsible for cleansing urea from the body. When kidneys are stressed, their capacity for ridding the body of toxic substances is reduced. If the kidneys can no longer remove urea efficiently, the toxic substance accumulates and causes effects such as fatigue and poor appetite. Decreasing foods that contain high levels of protein, such as meat and dairy products, can reduce the strain on the kidneys, according to the American Kidney Foundation.
High-Phosphorus Foods
One of the functions of the kidneys is balancing the mineral and electrolyte content of bodily fluids. When the kidneys are not performing well, phosphorus accumulates in the blood and causes health issues, such as leeching calcium from the bones, which reduces bone mineral density and increases your risk for osteoporosis. Excess calcium can create mineral deposits in the blood and lead to the development of kidney stones, among other disorders. Foods high in phosphorus to avoid include beer, cocoa, colas, cheese, milk, yogurt, beef liver, oysters, sardines, black beans, split peas, chick peas, lentils, nuts, wheat germ and seeds, according to the American Kidney Foundation.
High-Potassium Foods
An overabundance of potassium in the blood is a symptom of kidney disease or an otherwise compromised kidney function. Potassium regulates the heartbeat and muscle functions. Excessive amounts of the mineral can cause problems such as muscle weakness and numbness. Potassium may also cause an abnormal heartbeat or heart attack. Foods high in potassium include apricots, acorn squash, bran, avocado, chocolate, banana, granola, cantaloupe, milk, dates, squash, molasses, figs, honeydew, broccoli and peanut butter, according to the American Kidney Foundation.
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