Keeping your kidneys healthy is important to your overall health. The kidneys have the important job of clearing waste and extra fluids from your blood, balancing your body’s fluids, and even controlling your blood pressure. For people with kidney disease, eating the right foods is especially important, as their kidneys may not work as well and may have trouble removing waste from the body.

Those who live with kidney disease may have restrictions on how much fluid, potassium, sodium and phosphorus they can have. Keeping this in mind can help guide you in making the best food decisions. Some fruits, vegetables and other things foods can help support kidney health and make it easier for your kidneys to do their job.

1. Fruits

Fruit is a good complement to one kidney diet because they provide important nutrients that the body needs without putting too much strain on the kidneys. Many fruits are low in potassium, which is important for people with kidney problems who need to watch their potassium intake. These fruits are also high in fiber, which helps with digestion and can keep blood sugar levels stable.

Eating a variety of fresh fruit can provide vitamins and minerals that support kidney health and general well-being. Some useful nutritious fruits are:

• Apples
• Blueberry
• Cherry
• Grapefruit
• Oranges
• The pomegranates

2. Vegetables

Vegetables are also an important source of vitamins, minerals and fibre. Many vegetables are low in potassium and high in fiber. Including a variety of vegetables in the diet helps support kidney health, energy levels and the immune system.

Some useful vegetables are:

• Beetroot
• Pepper
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Broccoli
• Leafy green
• Potato
• Squash
• Sweet potato
• Tomatoes

3. Proteins

Protein is an important part of a kidney-friendly diet, but managing the amount and type of protein (animal protein vs. plant-based protein) is important for people with kidney problems. The body needs protein to build and repair muscles and support other functions, but too much protein can strain the kidneys.

Good protein choices for the kidneys are:

• Beans
• Chia seeds
• Chicken
• Egg
• Fish
• Flaxseed
• Tofu
• Yoghurt

4. Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy in a renal diet, as they provide fuel for the body without putting much strain on the kidneys. However, for those with kidney disease and diabetes, it is important to monitor carbohydrate intake. For carbohydrates, it is often best to focus on whole food sources and not processed foods.

Sources of carbohydrates can be:

• Fruits
• Legumes (peas, beans, lentils, peanuts)
• Vegetables
• Whole grains

5. Nuts and nut butter

Nuts and nut butters can contain healthy fats, protein and other nutrients. But they can also be high in phosphorus and sometimes potassium, which may need to be limited for some. Choosing unsalted varieties is usually important for kidney health.

Examples of nuts and nut butter are:

• Almond butter
• Almond
• Hazelnuts
• Macadamia nuts
• Peanut butter
• Peanuts
• Pecans
• Sunflower seed butter

6. Healthy oils

Healthy oils are an excellent addition to a renal diet, as they provide essential fats. Healthy fats like olive oil, avocado oil, and flaxseed oil contain heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. These types of oils include:

• Avocado oil
• Linseed oil
• Olive oil
• Sunflower oil
• Walnut oil

7. Drinks

Fluid balance is an important factor for kidney health. Water is generally the best option for hydration, as it has no added sugars, sodium or phosphorus. Other drinks that are OK with kidney disease include black coffee and unsweetened green tea.

What to avoid if you have kidney disease

For people with kidney disease, certain foods and drinks should be avoided or limited to ensure that the kidneys are working as well as possible.

Foods high in sodium should be avoided, as they can alter fluid balance and cause fluid retention. Foods high in sodium include:

• Canned soups
• Many processed foods
• Savory snacks

In addition to sodium, potassium may be another electrolyte that must be avoided or taken in moderation. For some people with kidney disease, potassium can be difficult for the kidneys to process. Foods high in potassium include:

• Bananas
• Dairy products
• Orange juice
• Tomatoes

Phosphorus is another nutrient that may need to be limited, as kidneys that aren’t working well can’t process phosphorus. Foods high in phosphorus include:

• Dairy
• Nuts
• Dark soft drinks
• Meat
• Poultry

Other ways to improve kidney function naturally

In addition to a kidney-friendly diet, there are several other ways to support and improve kidney function.

Maintaining a healthy weight is important to help kidney function. A healthy weight can help lower blood pressure and manage blood sugar levels, all of which help improve kidney health. Exercising regularly is an important part of maintaining kidney health.

Managing stress is helpful for kidney health. Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and inflammation, which can damage kidney function over time. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation or mindfulness, can help reduce stress and support overall well-being.

Getting enough sleep is also important, as poor sleep can negatively affect kidney function. Combining these lifestyle changes with a healthy diet and regular checkups with a healthcare provider can help improve kidney function and prevent further damage.

Summary

Keeping your kidneys healthy means eating the right foods and making healthy lifestyle choices. People with kidney disease may need to monitor their intake of potassium, sodium, phosphorus and fluids to prevent overstraining the kidneys.

Eating fruits, vegetables, and proteins that are easy on the kidneys can help, as can choosing healthy oils and staying hydrated. It is also important to limit foods high in salt, potassium and phosphorus.

Along with a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and good sleep can help support kidney health and improve general well-being.