Foods That Help Improve Kidney Function
There are a number of foods, including some fruits and vegetables, that can help improve kidney function. Chronic kidney diseases are currently a major health problem.
It is estimated that its prevalence will double in the next 10 years, due to the progressive aging of the population and the increase in other chronic processes such as diabetes and obesity.
Both fruits and vegetables that help you improve kidney function and other eating guides for this purpose, offer preventive measures that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve associated cardiovascular complications.
The importance of a correct diet to improve kidney function
The kidneys are the organs that are responsible for eliminating waste substances from the body. The blood passes through them and they filter it, retaining the products to be eliminated. In addition, they also regulate fluids and electrolytes in the body.
In severe kidney disease, the kidneys stop doing these functions normally. That is why in these cases patients must control the intake of fluids and some foods.
Modifying your diet in order to improve kidney function is not only a healthy recommendation, but along with medications and dialysis, it is a fundamental part of treatment.
Food is essential for the correct evolution of the disease and to prevent the appearance of other associated diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or obesity.
The diet of people who have kidney problems should be:
- Varied.
- Balanced.
- Adequate in energy.
- Neat.
- Adapted.
- Complemented.
Next, we will talk about 5 fruits and vegetables that help improve kidney function.
1. Endive
Endive is a delicious and ideal food for people who want to improve kidney function because it contains a high water content and a low caloric intake. In fact, about 95% of its composition is water, hence it is a light but satisfying food due to its fiber content.
From a nutritional point of view, in addition to its high water content, it also has minerals and vitamins. Among the first, we can include in its composition calcium, phosphorus, iron, potassium and sodium. As for vitamins, vitamins A, C and B vitamins stand out. Remember that C is essential to guarantee good immune function, according to a study published in Nutrients .
2. Onion or chives
It is one of the vegetables most used in meals around the world. Hide, layer by layer, many benefits. However, the main benefit to improve kidney function is its diuretic property, that is, it favors the expulsion of urine.
A scientific study from the Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice confirmed the onion’s abilities to efficiently activate kidney function and facilitate the elimination of fluids in the body.
In addition, it is a food, as we have said, with other benefits such as:
- Ally against diabetes.
- It favors digestion.
- Improves the immune system.
- Relieves some respiratory ailments.
3. Carrot
It is a vegetable known for its benefits in improving eyesight. However, it also has numerous other properties, and in this case, the important one is its diuretic property.
Like the previous ones, it contains a high water content that improves kidney function, since it facilitates the formation and expulsion of urine, helping, in turn, to the disintegration of kidney stones.
And, in addition to them, yes, carrots are also good for your eyes. Behind that old recommendation is the true essence of carrots. Beta carotenes are powerful protectants that have been shown to prevent premature aging. Its consumption will protect the retina and prevent the appearance of cataracts.
4. Blueberries
In particular, blueberries are ideal for fighting infections and for improving peripheral circulation. The cranberry juice of the red variety exerts a surprising antiseptic and antibiotic action on the bacteria that cause urinary infections, especially Escherichia coli .
In addition, blueberries contain quinic acid, a substance that is eliminated and acidifies the urine, thus preventing the formation of calcium phosphate stones or kidney stones. In short, they improve kidney function.
5. Other foods to improve kidney function
The fruits and vegetables mentioned in the article are not the only foods recommended for people who want to improve kidney function. There are many foods with properties for this function and among these others we can mention:
- Tangerine.
- Lemon.
- Cucumber.
- Fresh asparagus.
- Green peas.
- Champignons and mushrooms.
With diet you can improve kidney function
However, if you suffer from any type of kidney problem, do not hesitate to contact a professional to make you a good treatment plan and an adequate diet guide to reverse the problem.
