The Kidneys are small organs yet play a very powerful role in our bodies.

It is shaped like
kidney beans and its main job is to cleanse the blood of toxins and transform the waste into
urine. Healthy kidneys filter at least 200 quarts of blood and about 1 to 2 quarts of urine.
Unfortunately, there are numerous ways that can damage our kidneys, especially poor eating
habits. In recent studies, at least 10% of the world's population is suffering from kidney disease.
If the kidney is in trouble, waste builds up in the blood, especially those from unhealthy foods,
thus, for people with chronic kidney disease, it is vital to follow healthy diets and eat specific
foods. A kidney-friendly diet also referred to as a renal diet will help decrease the volume of
waste in the blood and help boost kidney function at the same time, protecting them from
additional damage.

Kidney patients are restricted with the following nutrients:

Sodium - almost present in many foods and is a vital component of salt. A person suffering from
kidney disease is unable to filter out excess sodium resulting into rising in blood levels. The
recommended sodium intake for people with kidney disease is less than 2000 mg per day.
Potassium - very important in the body but people with kidney problems must limit their intake
of potassium to prevent a rise in blood levels. The recommended potassium intake for a person
with kidney disease is less than 2000 mg per day.

Phosphorus - another mineral that needs to be under control for kidney disease patients. The
recommended phosphorus intake for a person with kidney disease is less than 800-1000 mg
per day.

Protein - another important nutrient in our body but should be on the watch for kidney disease
patients. Waste products from protein metabolism are unable to get rid of by damaged kidneys.
End-stage renal disease though needs more protein.

It is important to consult your attending physician for the best diet because every person
suffering from kidney disease is different from one another.

HERE ARE BEST FOODS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE

CAULIFLOWER - a nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C, K,
B6, Folate, Manganese, Magnesium, Potassium (9% of the RDI), and Phosphorus (4% of the
RDI). One cup of cauliflower has 40 mg phosphorus, 176 mg potassium, and 19 mg sodium.
Mashed cauliflower is becoming popular today because it's a healthy replacement to the potato
as a side dish.

RED GRAPES - contains Vitamin A, C, Calcium, Iron and has high in useful compounds called
resveratrol. A type of flavonoid that is very beneficial to heart health and helps maintain normal
sugar levels. Half cup of red grapes contains 1.5 mg of sodium, 144 mg potassium, 15 mg
phosphorus. which is very kidney-friendly.

BLUEBERRIES - contains a good amount of calories, protein, fiber with zero cholesterol. One
of the best sources of antioxidants and is full of nutrients. Blueberries contain antioxidants called
anthocyanins that help protects against heart disease, certain types of cancer, and diabetes.
One cup of fresh blueberries equivalent to 148 g contains 1.5 mg sodium, 114 mg potassium,
and 18mg phosphorus.

EGG WHITES - eggs are very nutritious but yolks that are high in phosphorus are not
recommended to kidney disease patients or someone on a renal diet. Thus, egg whites are
kidney-friendly because it gives a high-quality source of protein. Two large eggs whites contain
110 mg sodium, 108 mg potassium, and 10 mg phosphorus.

MACADAMIA NUTS - unlike almonds and peanuts that are high in phosphorus, macadamia
nuts contain a low amount of phosphorus and are recommended for people on a renal diet. One
ounce of macadamia nuts is equivalent to 28 grams contains 1.4mg sodium, 103mg potassium,
and 53 mg phosphorus.
SKINLESS CHICKEN - provides the body with a fair amount of high-quality protein but with
restriction for some kidney disease patients. It has 60 mg sodium, 200 mg potassium, and
phosphorus. Only choose fresh from the farm chicken and you must avoid pre-roasted one
because it has large amounts of sodium and phosphorus.

Studies show that consuming anti-inflammatory-rich foods can improve kidney health and can
even reverse kidney disease. More research has been found to connect out-of-control
inflammation to chronic diseases. Inflammation is our body's immune response to signal
abnormal functions in our system. An inflammation that is not given immediate healing actions
can lead to major degenerative diseases. Unhealthy foods like sugar can trigger inflammation
and create free radicals that damage cells in our organs. The good news is, there are foods that
can help fight inflammation not only because they are healthy but they also contain low
potassium and phosphorus plus packed with vitamins, phytonutrients, and healthy
anti-inflammatory compounds that will help speed up the recovery of kidneys.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS THAT HELP REVERSE KIDNEY DISEASE

BLUEBERRIES - high in fiber and antioxidants that contain strong anti-inflammatory

benefits. Its anthocyanins compound is what activates its anti-inflammatory effect.
Consume this food daily and it will boost immunity and strengthen metabolism.

BUCKWHEAT - studies show that consumption of this healthy whole grain slows down
the progression of kidney disease patients. It is gluten-free and known for its
anti-inflammatory properties. Buckwheat is called Kasha when roasted and is ideal for a
renal diet. Rich in fiber that helps reduce the level of C-reactive protein, an inflammation
in the blood. Unlike other whole grains, buckwheat is less in phosphorus which makes it
very suitable for kidney disease patients. Buckwheat, not really wheat, is a type of seed
called Pseudocereal that does not grow on grasses. It is packed with nutrition giving an
excellent amount of B Vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber. Since it is gluten-free, it is
good for people with gluten intolerance.

SHIITAKE MUSHROOM - the best protein substitute for tasty meats especially red
meat. One cup of shiitake mushroom is equivalent to 145 grams which contains 6mg
sodium, 179mg potassium, and 42mg phosphorus. This delicious anti-inflammatory food
is the best plant-based meat substitute for kidney patients following a renal diet. Packed
with vitamins and minerals such as B Vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium. It
also provides a good amount of fiber that is excellent in fighting inflammation.
Compared to white mushrooms and Portobello, shiitake mushroom is low in potassium.
Best when eaten raw or lightly cooked.

OLIVE OIL - popular to be included in almost all Mediterranean diets and considered to
be among the healthiest fats. A tablespoon of olive oil contains less than 1mg sodium
and potassium without any phosphorus. Best replacement for cooking oil because it is
rich in monounsaturated fats. Studies show that virgin olive oil reduced the risk of heart
disease, brain cancer, and other serious diseases. It is so powerful in fighting
inflammation because of oleocanthal, a type of polyphenol only olive oil can form.

TURNIPS - a good substitute for vegetables high in potassium like potatoes and
squash. Half cup equivalent to 78grams contains 12.5mg sodium, 138mg potassium,
and 20mg phosphorus. This vegetable is among the cruciferous family like brussels
sprouts, kale, and Bok choy. Turnip consists of an anti-inflammatory compounds to fight
diseases and packed with fiber, vitamin C, B6, and manganese. Turnip also contains
glucosinolates previously known as thioglucosides compounds that reduce the disease
triggering effect of oxidative stress that aids in avoiding chronic and excessive
inflammation. Can be served roasted or mashed as a side dish which is very beneficial
for kidneys. A must for patients following a renal diet.

GARLIC - considered top anti-inflammatory food. One clove garlic contains 1 mg

sodium, 12 mg potassium, and 4mg phosphorus. So powerful that can even prevent
tooth plaque. Its medicinal and anti-microbial properties help lowers cholesterol and
reduce inflammation significantly. Crush garlic and leaving it for about 5 minutes
maximizes its health benefits because it releases a compound known as allicin.

Help more people suffering from kidney disease by sharing this article.

Disclaimer.

All information provided on this site is all based on personal research and should not be used as
a substitute for professional treatment. Please consult your doctors, attending physicians, or
health practitioners for guidance about your medical condition.