Foods that are good for kidneys

 Kidney disease also known as kidney failure, this is when your kidneys gradually lose function. Over 37 million Americans suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease. Believe it or not, there are several foods you can eat to help you. 

Here are 11 of the best foods for people with kidney disease. 

1. Bell Peppers

No, I’m not talking about the spicy kind. Did you really think I was going to recommend eating a ghost pepper to help you with your kidney disease? Not a chance. Bell peppers on the other hand can do a lot to help fight this.

I mean, just check out the nutrients they hold. Just one tiny bell pepper holds more than 150 mg of potassium. Potassium is a mineral that can protect you from getting kidney stones. The only issue is that a person with kidney disease can’t process potassium the way a healthy person can. Bell peppers hold an ideal amount of potassium for a person with kidney disease to keep up with.

There is also a ton of Vitamin C, the same small bell pepper holds 105% of your daily recommended intake. This will protect your body’s cells.

The Vitamin A in bell peppers will improve the function of your immune system, this is a Foods that are good for kidneys

2.Cabbage

I get it, probably not the first choice on your grocery list. But on a list of kidney strengthening foods, cabbage should always be one of the top picks.

Cabbage is loaded with all kinds of vitamins and minerals. The kinds that will be useful in a battle against kidney disease. Not only will you be getting Vitamins C, B and K, but also some really good fiber.

Fiber is really beneficial for people with Chronic Kidney problems.

It allows your gastrointestinal system to work better by helping control your bodily functions.

It will also allow you to go to the bathroom easier by-- You ready ?Adding water to your stool!

Just a single cup of chopped cabbage gives you almost 10% of your daily suggested fiber intake. Now in case you're still bummed out about having to try this vegetable, you don’t have to eat it whole.

Cabbage is an amazing ingredient in soups and salad.

If you’re feeling brave, you can have it with just salt and pepper.

3.Chicken

Now here’s something most of us enjoy eating. At least I think so.

When you’re suffering from kidney disease, your body can only take in so much protein. A high protein diet will only worsen your kidney damage With skinless chicken, you’re getting just the right amount.

Half of a skinless chicken breast carries less than 30 grams of protein. Three ounces of skinless chicken breast holds about 220 mg of potassium as well. Try to get fresh chicken instead of pre-made roasted chicken. You’ll get the right amount of phosphorus and sodium.

The reason chicken might be better for you skinless is because the skin holds extra fat and calories. Try making it a policy to eat your chicken skinless as much as you can. It also tastes really good with some veggies on the side.

4.Strawberries

Now this is a choice that probably doesn’t go well with chicken. But you should try it anyway.

If you’re suffering from kidney disease, strawberries will help you with some much-needed nutrients.

I’m talking about a reasonable amount of potassium.

There’s also some great Vitamin C, manganese and fiber to go along with it.

If you have the opportunity to go strawberry picking, or you just want to grab some from the store, don’t miss out on that opportunity.

5.Olive Oil

Olive oil is something that goes well with cooking recipes. It’s also a really healthy choice for people with bad kidneys. I mean there are very few nutrients, but it’s got a ton of calories.

Now normally this wouldn’t sound like a positive thing. But people with kidney disease have trouble maintaining proper weight, and a single tablespoon of olive oils holds around 120 calories. So this does come in handy.

Another thing that olive oil has going for it is the monounsaturated fat called oleic acid. This helps fight off inflammation, which is something any sick person needs. These fats will survive at really high temperatures, so cooking them over the stove shouldn’t be a problem.

6.Bulgur

Originating in the Middle East, bulgur is a type of cereal made from several different types of wheat. You’ve probably had it and not even realized.

Bulgur is really good for your kidneys. It contains both plant-based protein and fiber. This way you’ll be able to digest things properly. There is also a reasonable amount of potassium and phosphorus in it as well.

You even have some decent magnesium, sodium and iron. Bulgur generally goes well with salads. You can even add some to your pasta sauce. A half-cup of bulgur is usually a decent start.

7.Egg Whites

You need some egg whites in your life. While you might be used to hearing just how good the yolk is for you, you need to drop it in this case.

Egg yolk carries a lot of phosphorus, which is a no-go for people with kidney disease. Egg white contains just the right amount of protein for hurting kidneys to process. Just one serving of whites from a large egg holds under 4 grams of protein.

You’re also getting tolerable amounts of potassium and sodium.

If you’re in the mood for a light breakfast, or another ingredient for your recipe, cook some egg whites.

8.Fish

We all can use a little more fish in our life, kidney disease or not. Different species like sea bass are a goldmine of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s help reduce inflammation in times of sickness. Sea bass is also said to contain the lowest amounts of phosphorus of any other seafood.

Actually, let me explain the purpose of phosphorus.

While it does perform several functions, phosphorus helps your kidneys by filtering out waste. If your kidneys aren’t working, too much phosphorus isn’t good. While adults are recommended no more than 700 mg a day, just a three ounce serving of sea bass holds under 200 mg of phosphorus.

Go down to the nearest market and pick up some fresh fish.

9.Onions

I know, onions are not ideal unless you're sprinkling a few on a cheeseburger. Well for people with kidney disease, they’re one of the easiest things to have. Just a small onion carries a little bit of sodium, some pretty decent potassium and a safe amount of phosphorus.

You’ll also be serving your digestive system with some vitamin C and manganese. One of the best things you can do when cooking is to sauté your onions with some olive oil and garlic.

It’s as tasty as you can imagine, while also easy on your sick kidneys.

Come to think of it, this brings me to my next pick.

10.Garlic

Again, I know it’s not on most of your lists . But garlic has some pretty good kidney benefits. Garlic is a great weapon against inflammation.

It has a pretty decent amount of Vitamin C and B6.

Garlic has very little to no salt. A tablespoon of garlic has zero. Add garlic to your cooking recipes. It’s definitely worth it.

11.Pineapple

Now I know it’s not really the right season for pineapple, but there are no rules with this delicious fruit.

The good thing about pineapple is that it’s low on potassium. It also has plenty of fiber. But you want to know why pineapple is really special? Bromelain. This is an enzyme exclusive to the stems of pineapple. It helps to reduce inflammation. So whether you like it on your pizza or not, one thing’s for sure…

Pineapple is friendly on the kidneys. Yup, kidney disease is no joke.

There are so many tell tale signs that your kidneys are a wreck.

How to Cut a Pineapple 

While following a renal diet can feel restrictive at times, there are plenty of delicious foods that fit into a healthy, well-balanced, kidney-friendly meal plan. 

HEALTHY FOODS WOMEN SHOULD EAT EVERY DAY