10 natural foods that are good for your kidney

There's no telling how many people have passed on as a result of kidney failure. Our kidneys are important to help us regulate water levels, remove toxins and waste from our system and produce certain hormones that aid our blood pressure and more. 

Luckily, studies have found that a number of common foods and drinks can help protect and strengthen your kidneys as part of a balanced diet. If you are worried about the overall health of your kidneys, please make sure you also consult a doctor.

The list is suitable for people who have kidney disease but also provides ideas for people with healthy kidneys who are looking to safeguard the long term health of the body. (Please note that you should consult your doctor if you already have issues). 

These foods are low in potassium and also provide other key nutrients that can aid the performance of your kidneys.

 

1. Cranberries

Cranberries are called a super food, and can help cleanse the body in a number of ways. You can eat them or drink them as juice (just make sure it's 100% cranberry juice, preferably using organically grown cranberries). They are a fantastic way of clearing out your kidneys, and they're packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber. They prevent ulcers and bacteria from forming in the urinary tract and fight existing bacteria in the stomach. Better to eat fresh ones when possible or else, dried cranberry is not bad too.  Blueberries and raspberries are other healthy alternatives too.

 

2. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is another food that is helpful for your kidneys. It provides plenty of fiber and Vitamin C, and contains compounds that can help your body neutralize toxic substances. People undergoing dialysis treatment for their kidneys often substitute cauliflower for potatoes as part of their diet.

 

3. Red Bell Peppers

Red Bell Peppers are known as one of the world's healthiest foods: they are low in potassium but high in Vitamins A, C and B6 as well as fiber. They also contain a natural antioxidant called lycopene which protects the body against certain types of cancer. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful molecules in the body, allowing the kidneys to perform their role as our body's detox organ.

 

4. Mushrooms

Vitamin D is important for healthy kidneys and mushrooms are one of the best plant-based sources of this vitamin. Studies have proven that Vitamin D helps control kidney function and can also protect your body from kidney disease. 

 

5. Apples

Apples are a great body cleanser, which means they are great for the kidneys. They help keep the kidneys clean and clear without increasing your need to urinate too frequently. They are also another source of Vitamin C and pectin; the latter is also great at slowing down blood sugar levels and removing excess cholesterol.

 

6. Water

How else do you maintain water balance in the body other than the substance itself? You don't need to go to massive lengths - just the classic standard 8 glasses (or 2 liters) of H2O will do, depending on how active you are on any given day. Water flushes through your body, helping transport those harmful toxins out of your kidneys' filtering system. It is the best cleanser of all so you should never compromise your need for regular water intake.

7. Grapefruit

Your body needs Vitamin C to help protect its immune system and stop bacteria from developing. This will help your kidneys perform their duties. Grapefruits are packed with this vital vitamin, and they are also low in potassium and sugar, making them an excellent source of natural nutrients for the kidneys.

 

8. Garlic

Garlic is great for reducing inflammation and has antioxidant properties which can help expel and control levels of harmful toxins in your body, aiding the function of your kidneys. Garlic granules are a great option for adding flavour to food if you are suffering from kidney disease. It's best to open up the garlic before eating.

 

9. Cabbage

Cabbage is packed with chemical compounds that help break apart harmful molecules in your body and support it in a number of ways. It's low in potassium yet high in Vitamin B and folic acid, so it's especially friendly for the kidneys.

 

10. Onion

Onions are trusted super foods which are rich in natural chemicals that help process fatty materials in the body so that waste can be flushed out. They are also powerful antioxidants and contain minerals that assist your metabolism, while being low in potassium, making them suitable for people with kidney issues.