Kidney disease refers to problems that affect the essential functions of your kidneys, which include maintenance of water balance and removal of toxins from your body. Common kidney diseases include glomerulonephritis, or inflammation of kidney tissues, and pyelonephritis, or kidney infection. Kidney stones are also common forms of kidney disease. Although diet may not cure kidney disease, certain foods may help curb the effects of these diseases. Check with your physician before altering your diet to address kidney disease.
Herbs and Spices
Americans typically use salt to flavor foods. Salt is also an ingredient in fast foods, packaged snacks and convenience meals. However, the sodium in salt may increase fluid retention and elevate blood pressure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Excess body fluids and high blood pressure are common complications of kidney disease. Replace salt with herbs and spices such as garlic, ginger, thyme, rosemary, basil, paprika, black pepper and cayenne pepper to add flavor to foods without increasing your sodium intake.
Arganine-Rich Foods
Arganine is an amino acid that may help to slow the progression of kidney disease. It may help prevent cellular damage to your kidneys, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It may stimulate immune system function, helping to destroy bacteria and toxins that your kidneys cannot filter from your bloodstream. It may also remove excess ammonia from your bloodstream that can aggravate kidney disease. Soybeans, lentils, chocolate, pumpkin seeds, black beans and sunflower seeds are rich sources of arganine.
Iron-Rich Foods
Kidney disease, particularly advanced kidney failure, may result in iron deficiency, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. An iron deficiency may cause anemia, a condition characterized by low red blood cell count, fatigue, increased susceptibility to infection and decreased cognitive function. If you have a kidney disease-related iron deficiency, boost your iron intake by consuming foods such as kidney beans, lima beans, fish, whole-grain breads and pastas, spinach and kale. Check with your doctor before increasing your iron intake -- high iron in your bloodstream may be toxic to your body.
Tofu
Tofu is a meat replacement made from soy milk. It is a rich source of lean protein and calcium, and is a cholesterol-free and saturated fat-free food. Use tofu instead of meat in soups, stews, breakfast dishes and stir fry dishes. Meats contain saturated fats, which place excess strain on your kidneys, according to Balch. Animal proteins may also contribute to uremia, a toxin-related condition that causes fatigue, nausea and seizures.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Diet -- Chronic Kidney Disease
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
