Your kidneys are responsible for regulating excretion, balancing salts in your body, stabilizing blood pressure and stimulating red blood cell production; they also play a central role in your urinary system. When your kidneys fail to function properly, kidney failure can develop in response to toxin accumulation. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and fish can promote healthy kidney function.
Protein
Foods rich in protein are important for kidney function. Protein contains amino acids, which promote immune functions as well as tissue creation and repair. As a result, protein-rich foods are vital to those undergoing or recovering from kidney-related conditions. Whole grains, vegetables, dairy products, meat, eggs, poultry and legumes all offer healthy amounts of protein. However, physicians and nutritionists often guide patients toward designated amounts of protein in cases of kidney disease.
Vegetables and Fruits
To function properly, your kidneys need minerals, vitamins and other nutrients that are primarily found in several fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables also contain antioxidants, which aid in inflammation reduction and immune system functions. Diets rich in antioxidants are beneficial if you have chronic kidney disease or undergo dialysis. Supplementing your diet with vegetables and fruits also decreases your risk for developing kidney and cardiovascular diseases. Examples of antioxidant-packed fruits and veggies include tomatoes, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli and carrots.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids can improve kidney function and regulate cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure. Although your body is unable to produce these nutrients, they can be found in a variety of fish such as sardines, mackerel, salmon, halibut, herring and tuna. They can also be found in walnuts, ground flaxseeds and canola oil.
Water
Drinking at least 64 ounces, or 8 cups, of water daily contributes to healthy kidney functions, notes MayoClinic.com. Water consumption is also helpful for flushing toxins and other impurities out of your body. Foods that contain large amounts of water are tea, fruit juices, grapes, apples, soup, celery, soups, tomatoes and lettuce.
References
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: The Kidneys and How They Work
- Davita.com: Top 15 Healthy Foods for People With Kidney Disease
- National Kidney Foundation: Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease
- Sciencedaily.com:Holiday Fruit Ranks Number One In Antioxidants
- "European Heart Journal": Omega-3 Fatty Acids Improve Blood Pressure Control and Preserve Renal Function in Hypertensive Heart Transplant Recipients, 2001
- MayoClinic.com: Water: How Much Should You Drink Every Day?
