Chronic kidney disease (CKD), or chronic kidney failure, is characterized by an ongoing loss of kidney function. One of the main functions of the kidneys is to filter excess fluids and waste from the blood. But in CKD, the kidneys cannot effectively filter the blood, leading to excessive electrolytes, fluid, and waste buildup. Below, you can find some foods to eat and management strategies that might reverse chronic kidney diseases.

While one cannot fully reverse chronic kidney diseases, one can take certain steps to manage the condition. This includes lifestyle modifications such as changes in one’s eating habits. These changes can also help reduce one’s risk of developing complications in the future.

Managing chronic kidney disease – Foods to eat
Generally, to manage kidney disease, one must consume foods low in phosphorus, sodium, and potassium. But one must remember that these foods cannot completely heal the kidneys. However, they do help stop disease progression. Hence, here are some foods that may help manage kidney diseases:

• Blueberries These fruits are rich sources of antioxidants called anthocyanins, which are beneficial for fighting inflammation. Furthermore, blueberries contain extremely low amounts of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are hard for the kidneys to process. One can consume whole blueberries or add them to smoothies or other preparations to reap their benefits.

• Cabbage Cabbage, a member of the cruciferous family, provides the body with a lot of nutrition. It is packed to the gills with minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. In fact, a 2021 study noted that red, green, and white cabbage can aid in managing blood sugar, reducing liver and kidney damage-related risk, and preventing oxidative stress. Additionally, a cup of shredded cabbage contains only 161 mg of potassium, 20 mg of sodium, and 29 mg of phosphorus.

• Bell peppers Red bell peppers are especially considered a healthy addition to a CKD patient’s meal plan. This is because they are rich sources of vitamin C, vitamin A, and other antioxidants. What’s more, they remain low in potassium, sodium, and phosphorus. Besides this, bell peppers are excellent sources of folic acid, Vitamin B6, and fiber. One can eat them raw by adding them to salads or cooked by adding them to soups, curries, and sauces.

• Onions As a member of the allium family, onions have a pungent smell. But that does not make them unhealthy. These vegetables are good sources of nutrition in the form of manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin B. Additionally, onions contain large amounts of flavonoids known as quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation. Over and above this, versatile vegetables like onions can be consumed in any form. Further, they can help add flavor to low-salt meals without harming the kidneys.

• Cauliflower Another cruciferous vegetable, cauliflower, possesses many nutrients like folate, fiber, and vitamin K. Moreover, it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit people with chronic kidney disease. Plus, it’s packed with compounds such as thiocyanates, glucosinolates, and indoles, aiding the liver in neutralizing toxic substances. One of the best ways to consume this vegetable is to mash it and eat it as a side dish. But one can also ferment, steam, or add it to soups and curry preparations.

• Garlic Like onions, garlic can be used as an alternative to salt to add taste to food and be consumed for its nutritional value. It is rich in vitamin B6 and manganese and contains properties that can reduce inflammation and cholesterol. Fresh garlic can be added to soups, curries, and pasta preparations. On the other hand, dried garlic can be used to flavor fries and dips or as a dry rub for meat.

In addition to consuming the foods mentioned above to try and reverse chronic kidney disease, one can also try developing certain habits such as exercising regularly, staying hydrated, getting annual physical checkups, and monitoring cholesterol levels.

If the condition worsens, one’s doctor may also suggest getting a kidney transplant, i.e., getting a new, healthy kidney from a donor. Alternatively, one can also try dialysis, where waste and extra fluid are artificially extracted from the blood to keep them from increasing to uncontrolled levels.

In cases where one does not wish to opt for transplants or dialysis, one can look for alternative treatment methods to alleviate symptoms. Here, one has to work with a specialist to manage the symptoms and follow a definitive treatment plan suggested by a doctor.