Kidney trouble? 5 foods you must add to the diet (2024)

ByParmita Uniyal, New Delhi

Kidney disease can be well managed with dietary and other lifestyle changes. From millets to mung beans, here's all that you must consume.

Kidney disease diagnosis can be scary for people and many fear worsening of the disease with time. Chronic kidney disease can however be managed well especially in early stages and lifestyle modifications can often do wonder. Taking care of your kidneys and eating the right diet can also help you avoid other health issues like cardiovascular problems, bone disease and anaemia. When it comes to disease management, dietary changes work the best apart from regular exercise and timely medication. (Also read | Blood samples can predict kidney disease in type 2 diabetes patients: Study)

Kidney trouble? 5 foods you must add to the diet (1)

Kidney disease can be caused by sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes. The symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, decreased mental sharpness among a host of other signs. Kidney disease is difficult to diagnose in early stages, but in advanced stages, dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes and wastes build up in the body.

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Managing thyroid and kidney diseases involves careful consideration of one's diet. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods can be beneficial for supporting overall health. Fruits and vegetables, fish, eggs, low levels of saturated fat, salt and sugar should be consumed. The amount of potassium or phosphate in the diet may be cut. Homemade foods should be preferred to canned foods as the latter is high in sodium. Vitamin D supplementation is also recommended for CKD patients.

FOODS FOR HEALTHY KIDNEYS

Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Executive Director, Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Fortis Escorts, Okhla Road, New Delhi shares five foods that can help manage kidney diseases:

1. Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can support both thyroid and kidney health. It contains curcumin, which has antioxidant effects and may aid in reducing inflammation associated with kidney disease.

2. Yoghurt (curd): A staple in Indian cuisine, yoghurt is a good source of iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. Opt for low-fat or Greek yoghurt to maintain a kidney-friendly diet, as it is lower in phosphorus.

3. Leafy greens (e.g., spinach and kale): Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, leafy greens contribute to a well-rounded diet for thyroid and kidney health. They are low in potassium, making them kidney-friendly, and their high fibre content supports digestive health.

4. Mung Beans (Moong Dal): A rich source of protein, mung beans are low in potassium and phosphorus, making them suitable for individuals with kidney concerns. They can be included in dal (lentil curry) or soups.

5. Millets (Bajra, Jowar): These traditional grains are nutrient-dense and lower in phosphorus compared to some other grains. Millets can be incorporated into the diet in the form of rotis or included in various dishes, offering a kidney-friendly alternative.

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Kidney trouble? 5 foods you must add to the diet (2024)

FAQs

Kidney trouble? 5 foods you must add to the diet? ›

Damaged kidneys build up potassium in the blood, resulting in serious heart problems. Potassium is present in bananas, other fruits and vegetables (such as potatoes, avocados and melons). People with advanced kidney disease are usually advised to avoid some fruits and vegetables, including bananas.

What are 5 foods good for kidneys? ›

Best Foods for Kidney Health
  • Berries. Many fruits are high in potassium, but berries are not. ...
  • Apples. Apples are another fruit that's low in potassium. ...
  • Egg whites. ...
  • Cauliflower. ...
  • Chicken. ...
  • Bell peppers. ...
  • Pineapple. ...
  • Fish.
Dec 7, 2022

What are the worst foods for kidney function? ›

1. Salt
  • Canned soups.
  • Processed meats like lunch meats, hot dogs, sausages.
  • Frozen pizza.
  • Frozen dinners.
  • Snack foods like chips, crackers, pretzels.
  • Condiments like ketchup, BBQ sauce, soy sauce.
  • Salad dressing.
  • Pickled foods like pickles, olives, beets.

What is a good menu for kidney disease? ›

Step 4: Choose foods and drinks with less phosphorus
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Breads, pasta, rice.
  • Rice milk (not enriched)
  • Corn and rice cereals.
  • Light-colored sodas/pop, such as lemon-lime or homemade iced tea.

Are bananas good for the kidneys? ›

Damaged kidneys build up potassium in the blood, resulting in serious heart problems. Potassium is present in bananas, other fruits and vegetables (such as potatoes, avocados and melons). People with advanced kidney disease are usually advised to avoid some fruits and vegetables, including bananas.

What is the best thing to drink for your kidneys? ›

Whilst all fluid counts towards your fluid intake, water is one of the healthiest choices when it comes to maintaining kidney health. Sip water little and often. Women should aim to drink eight 200ml glasses of fluid a day. Men should aim to drink ten 200ml glasses of fluid a day.

What foods cleanse the kidneys? ›

A person can try adding these kidney-friendly foods to their diet:
  • pomegranate.
  • avocado.
  • tofu.
  • fish.
  • broccoli.
  • squash.
  • leafy greens.
  • tomatoes.

Is peanut butter bad for your kidneys? ›

However, it's worth noting that 2 tablespoons of peanut butter also has 65 milligrams of oxalate, and high amounts of oxalate can contribute to kidney stones (54, 55). Talk with your doctor if you're prone to kidney stones, as you may want avoid or reduce your peanut butter consumption.

What is the easiest food for the kidneys? ›

A DaVita Dietitian's Top 15 Healthy Foods for People with Kidney...
  • Blueberries. ...
  • Raspberries. ...
  • Strawberries. ...
  • Cherries. ...
  • Red grapes. ...
  • Egg whites. ...
  • Fish. 3 ounces wild salmon = 50 mg sodium, 368 mg potassium, 274 mg phosphorus. ...
  • Olive oil. 1 tablespoon olive oil = less than 1 mg sodium, less than 1 mg potassium, 0 mg phosphorus.

What is toxic to kidneys? ›

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), diuretics, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are all drugs that can cause kidney damage. Certain medications administered in hospital settings, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics and vancomycin, can also damage the kidneys.

What is the best breakfast for kidney disease? ›

Whole foods that aren't overly processed are generally a good idea for your kidney-friendly breakfast.
  • Whole grain cereal, bagel, bread, or English muffin.
  • Oatmeal.
  • Fresh fruit such as a bowl of cut strawberries, grapes or pineapple.
  • Plant-based choices like almond milk, peanut butter, and chia seeds.
  • Eggs.

What not to drink if you have kidney problems? ›

Many manufacturers of dark-colored drinks add phosphorus to their products to enhance flavor, prolong shelf life, and prevent discoloration. Phosphorus in its additive form, found in dark cola and beer, is highly absorbable by the human body and is not recommended for those following a renal diet.

Is salad ok for kidney disease? ›

Leafy greens and kidney disease

Leafy greens are rich in potassium, which you may need to watch with kidney disease. The amount of potassium you can have each day will depend on your stage of kidney disease or the type of dialysis you receive. Most people with CKD do not have to limit leafy greens because of potassium.

Are eggs good for kidneys? ›

Egg whites provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein that is low in phosphorus. Egg whites may be a better choice than whole eggs for people on a renal diet, as egg yolks can be high in phosphorus. Two large, raw egg whites (66 g) contain : sodium: 110 mg.

Are potatoes good for the kidneys? ›

Potassium: In kidney disease, high potassium levels can build up in your blood and cause serious heart problems. The right level of this mineral keeps your nerves and muscles working well. Avoid tomatoes, oranges, bananas, potatoes, avocados, broccoli, and whole-grain bread, as they are high in potassium.

What foods do kidneys love? ›

Foods that may help boost kidney health include low-phosphorus cheese, fish, root vegetables, broccoli, beans, seeds, nuts, leafy greens, whole grains, herbs, eggs, and shellfish.

Are eggs good for the kidneys? ›

Healthy options for kidney disease are protein, egg whites, fish, unsaturated fats, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, apple juice, grape and cranberry juice, light colored soda. The amount of protein intake per day varies depending on the stage of kidney disease.

What fruit is best for the kidneys? ›

Other fruits that may be recommended for promoting kidney health include:
  • Pears.
  • Peaches.
  • Clementines.
  • Nectarines.
  • Mandarins.
  • Plums.
  • Satsumas.
  • Watermelon.

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