Top 12 Superfoods For Healthy Kidneys

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It is often said that what you eat reflects your health and just like any other organ, kidneys too require their own specific diet too. A healthy kidney is equally important as having a healthy heart. Their main function is to filter out the waste and extra water by removing the harmful toxins from the body.

Kidneys also help in maintaining a balance of electrolytes and other fluids in your body. Kidney problems can cause puffiness round the eyes, difficulty in urinating and give raise to swollen hands and feet.

Diet is incredibly important for patients suffering from kidney diseases. Eating the right kind of foods helps organs to function properly, including your kidneys, liver and the heart. There are certain superfoods that are rich in antioxidants and are packed with nutrition.

So, if you want to feel healthy, start including these 12 superfoods for healthy kidneys and also for people with kidney diseases.

1. Cabbage

Cabbage is most commonly used as a natural medicine to repair and nourish the kidneys. This vegetable improves the kidney functioning due to the phytochemicals present in it. It is high in vitamin B6, vitamin C and vitamin K along with fibre and folic acid.

2. Fish

Fish contains omega 3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation in the body and protect the kidneys. People with kidney problems should eat fishes like salmon, mackerel, herring and tuna. You must consume steamed, baked or roasted fish to reduce kidney problems.

3. Berries

Berries are excellent sources of magnesium, vitamin C, fibre and folate. Berries like strawberries, cranberries, raspberries and blueberries are considered to be good for your kidneys. Berries contain anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve bladder functioning.

4. Garlic

Garlic contains antioxidants and anti-clotting properties that can effectively reduce the chances of kidney disease. Garlic protects the kidneys from the potential harmful effects of heavy metals. You can use fresh, minced or powdered garlic in your dishes to reap the health benefits.

5. Olive Oil

Everyone knows how olive oil is good for the heart. But, did you know olive oil is good for your kidneys too? It is a great source of anti-inflammatory fatty acids that lower oxidation and promote kidney health. Use extra-virgin olive oil to make salad dressing and in your everyday cooking.

6. Egg Whites

People with kidney diseases are advised to have egg whites. It is because egg whites are low in phosphorous and are high in good quality of protein. It also contains essential amino acids which is necessary for the kidneys to function properly. People with kidney problems should avoid eating egg yolks however.

7. Red Bell peppers

Red peppers are low in potassium and high in vitamin A, vitamin C as well as vitamin B6. It is also an excellent source of folic acid and fibre, which is needed to help the kidney perform better. Include red bell pepper in your cooking and avoid kidney problems.

8. Apple

Apples prevent constipation, protect against heart diseases and improve eyesight. Apples also help in maintaining a healthy kidney, because it is rich in antioxidant and vitamins. Apples also help to maintain a good cholesterol level and keeps your urine clear.

9. Red Grapes

Red grapes are acidic and they kill bacteria and germs found in kidneys and the urinary tract. Red grapes also help the muscles to relax, thus improving your blood flow. They are also an excellent source of flavonoids that protect against cancer and prevent any type of inflammation.

10. Lemon Juice

The acid content found in lemon and limes breaks down the kidney stones, which in turn helps to keep your kidneys healthy. The citrus found in lemons prevents the crystals that are already present in your kidneys from binding with each other.

11. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that is rich in vitamin C, folate and fibre. Cauliflower contains essential compounds that help the liver neutralize toxic found in the body and preserve the cell membranes. You can either boil or poach the cauliflower.

12. Onions

Onions are full of powerful antioxidants which help in detoxifying and cleansing the kidneys. They are low in potassium, chromium, etc., that help the body to metabolize fats, proteins and carbohydrates.