Foods That Are Good for Kidney Health

The human body is filled with internal organs that serve important purposes. The brain, heart, and lungs are the three that most people think of as most vital. There are others as well. The kidneys have the essential job of filtering wastes out of the blood so they can exit the body. Excess amounts of sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are removed from the blood. If they were to remain, they could cause imbalances that are detrimental to health. Kidneys also produce hormones that improve bone health, help produce red blood cells, and maintain healthy blood pressure. Organs that perform such vital functions need to be kept healthy. Here are some foods that can help keep your kidneys in good health. 

Proper Protein Sources

Protein is an essential nutrient used to build and repair muscle tissue. However, too much of it can be harmful to the kidneys. People who are at risk for kidney disease need to choose their protein sources carefully. Foods that are high in protein such as red meat and poultry should be consumed in moderation. Lower protein sources such as fatty fish, vegetables, pasta, rice, and white bread have smaller amounts of the nutrient so it's easier to control protein intake.

Vegetables

Vegetables are low in carbohydrates and many of them such as cucumbers, lettuce, snow peas, arugula, cauliflower, cabbage, and turnips provide some protein while being low in both phosphorus and potassium, an important consideration for those at risk for kidney disease. Spinach is a vegetable to look out for. As healthy as it is, it contains high levels of potassium.

Proper Fat Choices

A healthy diet, in general, should limit fats but the body does need some to protect nerves, provide energy, and help regulate hormones. Choosing the right sources of fat is important to kidney health. Cooking with olive oil is a better method than using butter or margarine, both of which are high in phosphorus. Sunflower oil is another good substitute and contains unsaturated fats which are healthy.

Condiments

Condiments add flavor and moisture to food but people who are at risk for kidney disease must be careful when choosing them. Many of the commercial brands available at supermarkets are loaded with sodium which can harm kidney health. Make your own low-sodium relishes and pickles. Hot peppers, black pepper, and garlic are tasty ingredients that are good for kidney health.

The kidneys are among the most important of the body's many organs. Keeping them healthy is essential, especially for people at risk of kidney disease. Being mindful when making food choices can be a big help in keeping your kidneys healthy.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bothell, Wash.

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