"Superfoods That Boost Kidney Health"

 You Should Give Your Kidneys More—These  Superfoods Can Help

Seeking healthier kidneys? Begin with these  simple food substitutions.

Enhance your kidney health by snacking on these foods.

While most individuals are aware that you can sustain a healthy lifestyle with just one kidney, many don't realize how crucial your kidneys truly are.According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Over one in seven Americans suffer from chronic renal disease.   Your kidneys tirelessly work 24/7 to eliminate waste and excess fluids, aiding in the prevention of serious health issues like heart disease, infections, anemia, depression, and even diminished appetite.

Health Tips

Your nutrition and gut health significantly influence your overall wellness, particularly regarding maintaining kidney health. Here are 13 superfoods you should consider when exploring natural methods to enhance your kidney function.

 superfoods for kidney health

1. Cabbage

 Similar to cabbage, bell peppers are low in potassium but abundant in beneficial nutrients.

Moreover, cabbage is adaptable. You can use it in salads and slaws, or employ it as a wrap for tacos, sandwiches, and beyond.

2. Fatty fish

Fish provides protein, and when you opt for fatty species like tuna, salmon, or trout, you also gain omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats can help lower fat levels (triglycerides) in the bloodstream and may also decrease blood pressure, as noted by the National Kidney Foundation.

 If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), you should keep an eye on the potassium and phosphorus levels of the fish you choose.  The National Kidney Foundation has a chart for assessing these levels in specific fish types. However, consulting your doctor is recommended.

 A red bell pepper was chopped in half and placed on a chopping board.

 3. Bell peppers

 Similar to cabbage, bell peppers possess minimal potassium levels yet are packed with nutritious components. With these, you receive vitamins B6, B9, C, and K, in addition to fiber. They also provide antioxidants.

You can slice them to enjoy with dips or roast them to enhance your meals.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries aid in preventing urinary tract infections. While these generally remain in your bladder, they can ascend to your kidneys, exacerbating kidney issues. Thankfully, regularly consuming cranberries can help you avoid this unpleasant scenario.

Additionally, cranberries are rich in antioxidants that help combat inflammation and can enhance your heart and digestive wellness. It turns out these tangy berries are not just for Thanksgiving.

5. Blueberries

 Although we have covered some of the best foods for kidneys, you can go one step further.  The question is: What foods assist in mending kidneys? Blueberries provide the answer.

With high antioxidant levels, along with ample vitamin C and fiber, blueberries are extraordinarily healthy. They can also aid in reducing inflammation and supporting bone health, reversing several complications associated with CKD.

6. Dark, leafy greens

There are many reasons to embrace dark, leafy greens like spinach or kale. They offer so many nutrients that they can supply essential vitamins and minerals, as well as immune-boosting benefits.

Be aware that greens can contain considerable amounts of potassium.  If you have chronic renal illness, see your physician before incorporating more of these into your diet.

7. Olive oil

Packed with antioxidants and healthy fatty acids, olive oil can enhance your overall health. Research from Harvard University suggests that olive oil may reduce cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, and certain cancers.

In addition, it can assist you in enhancing the flavor of your food without using butter or salt.  For more antioxidants, choose unrefined or cold-pressed olive oil, preferably virgin or extra virgin.

8. Garlic

Another antioxidant-rich, inflammation-fighting food, garlic features a unique compound known as allicin. For those with CKD, allicin—the active compound in garlic—has been shown to protect kidney health just as effectively as a prescribed medication.  Garlic is a must-have if you are looking for the healthiest meals for your kidneys.

Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to season your meals while minimizing salt.

9. Onions

From the same family as garlic, onions provide another excellent salt-free method to enhance flavor (extra points if you sauté them in olive oil). Important elements like manganese, copper, and vitamins B6 and C are also found in onions.

They contain quercetin, a compound that can assist your body in fighting cancer, along with organic sulfur compounds that can reduce your risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease.