Every year, March 10, 2022, is observed as World Kidney Day. Kidneys are small beans like organs that fit in the lower abdomen of the body and are known to play a significant role in the overall wellbeing of the human body. It filters the waste product from the blood and sends it out of the body in the form of urine. It also helps in balancing fluid and electrolyte levels.
Consumption of unhealthy food can cause medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Such diseases cause damage to the kidneys. According to PubMed, an unhealthy diet is the most significant factor for chronic kidney illnesses.
Making changes in the diet plan can help and be a key part of the treatment. Here are some food items to keep your kidneys healthy-
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals that help maintain sodium levels and reduce their harm to the body. Excess fibre present in this vegetable breaks slowly resulting in less insulin levels. However, according to Medical News Today, a health website, sweet potatoes are high in potassium. Therefore people who have chronic kidney disease or are on dialysis should consume this vegetable in an accurate amount.
Apples
Apples are a wonderful source of important fibre Pectin. Pectin helps in avoiding high blood sugar and increased levels of bad cholesterol. Thus, protecting the kidneys.
Green leafy veggies
Green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale provide vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to the body which help protect kidneys and maintain overall health. However, people who are on dialysis are restricted from diets containing these vegetables.
Nettle leaf
Nettle leaf is a natural remedy, known to treat kidney problems, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. Consuming nettle leaf tea on a regular basis helps improve blood purification, reduce creatinine levels, improve urination, and control inflammation of the kidneys.
Berries
Cranberries, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries are high in nutrition and multiple vitamins. Berries are also wonderful sources of antioxidant phytonutrients that reduce inflammation in the body. To aid good kidney health, it also helps reduce cell damage. One can consume berries in many different ways like smoothies, fruit salads or add them to cereals.
Keep your kidney health happy and strong with these fruits and vegetables. It is also important to consult your physician or nutritionist in case you are on dialysis.
