Your kidneys work as your body’s filtration system and expel harmful substances. They also help produce hormones, keep your blood pressure in check, and support bone health. Like other organs, your kidneys can also get damaged if not taken care of. This is where a kidney-friendly meal plan comes in. Specific foods help the kidneys function better and lessen the pressure on them. Read on to know about kidney-friendly foods.

Kidney health and foods – What is the connection?
According to the Kidney International Supplements Journal, chronic kidney disease affects more than 800 million people around the world. The condition is primarily attributed to diseases such as hypertension and uncontrolled diabetes.

A regular intake of healthy foods is intricately connected to the management of these contributing conditions and, ultimately, the health of your kidneys. The kidney diet is a special meal plan that’s low in protein, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. It helps in reducing the strain on your kidneys and aids in their better functioning. A balanced meal plan for the kidneys prevents organ problems and also slows down the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Here are some of the best things that you can eat to improve your kidney health:

Cruciferous vegetables
Vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale are considered to be kidney superfoods. They are not just low in sodium but are also alkaline. Thus, they help in reducing the acidic content of your meals and reduce the pressure on your kidneys.

These food choices are also rich in calcium and vitamins A and C, which contribute to your overall health. The best part is that these vegetables are rich in fiber and play a part in reducing the complications associated with kidney damage.

Fatty fish
If your kidney disease is due to high blood pressure, then fatty fish is one of the best things to include in your meal plan. Since fatty fish is abundant in omega-3 fats, they help reduce the levels of fat in your blood. This, in turn, regulates your blood pressure and protects your kidneys from being overworked.

Blueberries
According to the National Kidney Foundation, blueberries are among the best fruit choices for people suffering from kidney issues. This delicious fruit is low in sodium, sugar, and phosphorus. Blueberries are also an excellent source of fiber, along with antioxidants and nutrients such as vitamins C and K.

Olive oil
One of the healthiest things to include in your kidney-friendly meal plan, olive oil is low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. This makes it an ideal fat to use in cooking for people experiencing problems with their kidneys. It is also rich in monounsaturated fats, known as oleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Since people suffering from advanced stages of kidney disease have trouble keeping their weight regulated, olive oil also supplies essential fats to keep your body healthy.

Bell pepper
Bell pepper is one of the most recommended foods that have a great impact on one’s kidney health. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which help strengthen the immune system of patients suffering from chronic kidney disease.

They also reduce fat accumulation by breaking down lipids and transforming them into energy to prevent fatigue. One of the most important advantages of bell peppers is that they are low in potassium and high in fiber, making them very beneficial for improving your kidney health.

Garlic
Garlic has tremendous benefits when it comes to chronic kidney disease. The food option has amazing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces toxins in the body. It also improves your lipid profile and reduces oxidative stress.

Egg whites
They are known as a superfood for kidney health; egg whites are a must-include in your meal plan. They are a low-salt source of protein. Along with this, they also help in lowering the levels of phosphorus in your blood, thus preventing kidney problems in the first place.

How can you make the most of your kidney-friendly meal plan?
While we have shared the top things to eat to improve your meals to help your kidney health, here are some tips to help to gain the most nutrition from what you eat:

Create portions on your plate. For instance, half of your plate must be filled with vegetables and a quarter of each with lean protein and whole grains.
Prepare your meals at home. This way, you can control the nutrients and use the freshest ingredients.

Including these renal-friendly foods in your meals will go a long way in improving and maintaining your kidney health. However, before making any changes to your food routine, make sure to discuss them with your doctor for the best results.