What Foods Can Keep Your Kidney Healthy?

A healthy and functional kidney is very important to your body. Nutrition is vital for the proper functions of the kidneys since insignificant nutrients that you introduce to your body will be removed by your kidneys. If you frequently eat unhealthy foods, there is a great tendency that you will have overworked kidneys resulting to a greater risk for kidney diseases or even kidney failure. To prevent overworking your kidneys, there are some foods that are kidney-friendly and will help in keeping your kidneys healthy.

Water
A high water intake can significantly improve the general health of your body. Your kidneys especially require water to help them eliminate wastes from your blood. If the body is dehydrated, the wastes will then form kidney stones which are painful if they pass through the urethra to leave your body. Having lots of water can help you prevent urinary tract infections which can also affect the kidneys if they aggravate.

Low Sodium Foods
Foods with high sodium can lead to hypertension, which is also a risk for kidney disease. It means that one must lower his sodium intake to control his hypertension and to keep his kidneys healthy at the same time. Research shows that one way to reduce salt intake is to avoid adding salt to your food at the table.

Low Potassium Foods
Although the body needs potassium, too much of it can also cause problems with the heart and the kidneys. Limit your intake of tomatoes, potatoes and oranges if you want to lower your potassium levels. Cabbage, eggplant, rice and alfalfa have low potassium levels.

Low Phosphorus Foods
Limit your intake of dairy and nuts to cut down your phosphorus levels. You also replace your cream cheese with hard cheese or popcorn with pretzels.

Low Protein Foods
Too much protein can overwork your kidneys. You can reduce your protein intake by eating less meat and having more vegetables instead for your main meals.