Kidneys are responsible for removing waste from the blood and excreting it through the urine. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that the kidneys process approximately 200 quarts of blood each day. Most fruits and vegetables can help improve kidney function, because they contain antioxidants and prevent diseases. Consult your physician or a registered dietician before making any dietary changes.
Kidney Damage
When you have kidney damage, diet can play an important role in how the kidney functions. If your kidneys are having trouble filtering out nutrients from your blood, your body can develop toxic levels of some nutrients. In cases of mild to severe kidney damage, the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends that you avoid foods high in potassium, which some fruits and vegetables -- such as bananas and spinach -- contain. However, fruits and vegetables often contain high levels of antioxidants and essential vitamins that can help improve your immune system and prevent infections.
Fruits
Apples are high in antioxidants and relatively low in potassium and sodium. Apples are also high in fiber and help to reduce inflammation, which can improve kidney function. All types of berries are considered super-foods because they contain phytonutrients, nutrients from plants that contain protective compounds. Berries, such as blueberries, cranberries and strawberries, are also low in potassium and high in antioxidants, which can help to protect against free radicals, a group of highly reactive atoms that can cause damage to cells. Red grapes and cherries are also healthy fruits for kidney functions.
Vegetables
Many vegetables can help to improve kidney functions, as long as they are low in potassium. Red bell peppers, for example, are a good source of vitamins C, A and B-6, folic acid, fiber and the antioxidant lycopene. Cabbage contains phytonutrients that help break up free radicals and prevent certain diseases. Cauliflower is high in vitamin C and fiber and contains compounds that can help improve kidney functioning. Onions are another super-food that is high in antioxidants that can help prevent certain diseases, including diseases of the kidneys. All of these vegetables are low in potassium.
Foods to Avoid
You may need to avoid certain foods if you have kidney damage. Talk to your physician or dietician about specific foods that you should not eat. People with kidney damage may need to limit the amount of protein they eat. Sodium, potassium and phosphorous are minerals that can worsen kidney problems. Avoid fruits such as bananas, oranges and dried fruits, because they are high in potassium. Vegetables with high potassium levels include tomatoes, spinach, artichoke and acorn squash.
