Every organ of your body is important to your health and may require special care. The kidneys for example are vital for healthy and happy life. These two bean shaped
organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage are part of your urinary system and are responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluid from the blood, which are then eliminated from the body as urine.
The kidneys perform several vital functions, including regulating the body's fluid balance, controlling the levels of electrolytes and other important substances in the blood, and producing hormones that help regulate blood pressure and stimulate the production of red blood cells.
Besides, the kidneys produce several hormones, including:
Erythropoietin (EPO): a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
Renin: a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure by controlling the balance of salt and water in the body.
Calcitriol: an active form of vitamin D that helps regulate calcium and phosphate metabolism and bone health.
So, it is important to take care of your kidneys and give them the food your kidneys love the most. The best foods for kidney health are those that are low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, as well as high in nutrients that support kidney function. Here are some examples of foods that are good for kidney health:
Berries: Berries are low in potassium and high in antioxidants, which can help protect the kidneys from damage.
Cauliflower: Cauliflower is low in potassium and a good source of vitamin C and fiber, which can support kidney health.
Garlic: Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the kidneys from damage, and it can also help lower blood pressure, which is important for kidney health.
Onions: Onions are low in potassium and high in antioxidants, which can help protect the kidneys from damage.
Apples: Apples are low in potassium and high in fiber, which can help support kidney health.
Fish: Fish such as salmon and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and protect the kidneys from damage.
Olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy source of fat that can help lower inflammation and protect the kidneys from damage.
Egg whites: Egg whites are low in potassium and high in protein, making them a good choice for people with kidney disease who need to limit their potassium intake.
Red bell peppers: Red bell peppers are low in potassium and high in vitamin C, which can help protect the kidneys from damage.
Cabbage: Cabbage is low in potassium and high in vitamin C and fiber, which can help support kidney health.
Overall, a healthy diet that is low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus and high in nutrients that support kidney function.
In case someone is suffering from chronic kidney disease, there are certain things one should avoid doing to prevent further damage to the kidneys and maintain their overall health. Here are some things that someone with kidney failure should never do:
Avoid over-the-counter painkillers: Over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can be harmful to the kidneys and should be avoided unless approved by a doctor.
Don't smoke or drink: Smoking can cause further damage to the kidneys and should be avoided. Drinking too much alcohol can damage the kidneys and should be avoided or limited.
Avoid high-sodium foods: High-sodium foods can cause fluid build-up and increase blood pressure, which can be harmful to the kidneys. It's important to limit sodium intake and avoid processed and packaged foods that are high in sodium.
Don't consume excessive amounts of potassium: People with kidney failure may need to limit their potassium intake because the kidneys are no longer able to remove excess potassium from the body. It's important to avoid high-potassium foods, such as bananas, potatoes, and spinach, and follow a low-potassium diet recommended by a healthcare professional.
Don't ignore symptoms: It's important to pay attention to symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and changes in urine output, as these can indicate worsening kidney function. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention.
Don't skip dialysis treatments: For people with end-stage kidney disease, dialysis is a necessary treatment to remove waste and excess fluids from the body. It's important to attend all scheduled dialysis treatments and follow the recommended treatment plan.