Kidney disease is a common condition affecting about ten percent of all people worldwide. Your kidneys filter waste products, balance bodily fluids, and produce urine. Uncontrolled blood sugar and high blood pressure are the leading factors that damage kidney blood vessels, reducing functioning and increasing blood waste. Taking kidney-friendly meals, known as a kidney diet, can help reduce the amount of waste in your blood. A kidney diet Memorial Hermann Cypress includes foods with low amounts of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Diet and medications are crucial in managing kidney conditions. There are various foods essential in a kidney diet, including:
Egg whites
Despite egg yolks being very nutritious, they have high amounts of phosphorus, making egg whites suitable for a kidney diet. Egg whites are a high-quality source of protein. They are best if you are undergoing dialysis treatment and need to limit phosphorus intake.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable containing many nutrients, including vitamins C, K, and B. it is a good source of fiber and has anti-inflammatory compounds such as indoles. You can use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-potassium side meal.
Blueberries
Blueberries contain many nutrients and are among the best sources of antioxidants known as anthocyanin. The antioxidants can protect you against heart disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline, and diabetes. Blueberries are low in potassium, sodium, and phosphorus, making them fit in a kidney diet.
Red grapes
Red grapes are delicious and have a ton of nutrients. They contain high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants known as flavonoids that help reduce inflammation. Flavonoids also benefit heart health and protect you against diabetes and cognitive decline. Red grapes have low amounts of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, making them essential in a kidney diet.
Garlic
If you have kidney disease, your doctor will recommend you limit the amount of sodium in your diet, including added salt. Garlic is a suitable alternative to salt, offers nutritional benefits, and adds flavor to dishes. Garlic contains manganese, vitamin C and B6, and sulfur compounds with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Cabbage
Cabbage contains many vitamins, minerals, and powerful plant compounds. It contains vitamins K, C, and B. It provides an insoluble fiber that helps keep your digestive system healthy by enhancing regular bowel movement. Cabbage is crucial in the kidney diet because it is low in phosphorus, sodium, and potassium.
Skinless chicken
A low protein intake is essential for some patients with kidney problems. Skinless chicken breast has low amounts of phosphorus, potassium, and sodium than skin-on chicken breast. Ensure you take fresh chicken and avoid pre-made roasted chicken because it contains high amounts of sodium and phosphorus.
Olive oil
Olive oil benefits people with kidney conditions as it is a healthy fat source and phosphorus-free. Most patients with advanced kidney disease have challenges maintaining weight, making olive oil an essential high-calorie food. Olive oil contains high amounts of monounsaturated fat, known as oleic acid, with anti-inflammatory characteristics.
A kidney diet involves foods with low amounts of potassium, sodium, and phosphorus that help reduce waste in your blood. These foods include egg whites, garlic, blueberries, cauliflower, red grapes, cabbage, skinless chicken, and olive oil. Schedule an appointment at Houston Kidney Specialists Center to learn more about kidney diet to help manage your kidney disease.
