World Kidney Day: Kidney isn't the first thing on our priority list when it comes to eating healthy. But turns out we can eat our way to better kidney health with these simple foods in our diet. There are certain foods that will allow you to eat your way to better kidney health. They are simple and everyday foods that are easily available within the household. The inclusion of these foods in your diet acts as a preventive measure for avoiding the contraction of kidney disease.
Macrobiotic Health Coach and Nutritionist Shilpa Arora ND suggests that sodium intake should be avoided as much as possible. "Salt intake should be limited in the diet. Less processed items should be had as they are very high on sodium and trans fats, for example, diet namkeens etc." Further, unhealthy kidneys have problems in filtering out phosphorous so lesser quantities of this mineral are recommended for a kidney-healthy diet.
Here Are 7 Foods To Eat For A Healthy Kidney:
1. Apple
The healthiest any-time snack that keeps doctors away, apples are helpful for protecting kidneys too. The high pectin content in apples helps reduce the risk factors associated with kidney damage.
2. Berries
Berries are a great source of antioxidants and helpful nutrients. There are a number of berries that can be added to the diet to protect kidney health such as strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, etc.
3. Citrus Fruits
If you want to keep your kidney healthy, the more Vitamin C the better. Citrus fruits such as oranges, and lemons contain this vital vitamin in abundance. According to the book Healing Foods by DK Publications, "Consuming dilute lemon juice daily has been shown to decrease the rate of stone formation."
(Also Read: Beat The Cold Naturally: 5 Interesting Ways To Include Citrus In Your Diet)
4. Cabbage
Cabbage is naturally low in sodium, which makes it a great vegetable to have to prevent kidney disease. It also contains a number of helpful compounds and vitamins for overall well being. The best way to eat cabbage is to have it lightly cooked so that it retains its health benefits.
5. Sweet Potato
The number of vitamins and minerals found in sweet potato is great for consumption at any time of the day. Their high fibre content further breaks down slowly, making it ideal to reduce weight too.
6. Kale
Dark leafy green vegetables are a must-include in your diet for better kidney health. Kale is one such superfood that is readily available and can be added for its high vitamin and mineral content.
(Also Read: 5 Amazing Health Benefits Of Eating Kale)
7. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is one power-packed vegetable that has Vitamin C, Folate and fibre in abundance. It can be boiled or even had raw for maximum health benefits for the kidney. Nutritionist Shilpa Arora ND says that eating water-rich food may be beneficial for health. "Celery, kakadi, cucumber, bottle gourd and watermelon are a must-have to ensure healthy kidneys," says Shilpa Arora. Coconut water is another drink that is recommended by the expert. "Coconut water is extremely healing for the kidneys as it's high in potassium and helps flush out the excess sodium," adds Arora.
Nutritionist-Recommended Recipe For Healthy Detox Water
Here is a simple recipe for detox water you can easily make at home, by Nutritionist Shilpa Arora ND.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers - 2
- Lemon 1/2
- Mint leaves
- Pinch of black salt
Method
Blend all the ingredients together and drink it for maximum health benefits.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.