The Kidney is involved in removing all the waste products from the body such as extra fluids, sodium, electrolytes and other substances found in the blood. The kidneys regulate urine output, blood pressure, hormones and removes drugs/toxins. Consuming plenty of electrolytes from whole foods, avoiding harmful toxins and chemicals and maintaining a healthy weight are good ways to prevent kidney damage.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is when there is a minor decline in the function of the kidneys. Renal failure (RF) is when the kidneys suddenly stop functioning. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is when there is a gradual loss in the kidneys function. Characterised by fatigue, weakness, sleeping problems, changes in urination, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, muscle cramps/twitches, swelling, shortness of breath and high blood pressure. Caused by several factors such as diabetes, anaemia, high blood pressure, heart failure, unhealthy diet, obesity, age, prostate disease, liver damage, significant blood loss to the kidneys, certain medication and kidney or urinary tract infections. Treatment involves a change in diet, medication, haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and in some cases kidney transplantation.
The renal diet is recommended to those with CKD. This diet limits the intake of nutrients; sodium, potassium and phosphorous as these minerals accumulate in the blood as the kidney is not able to remove them.
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Foods to eat on a renal diet |
Foods NOT to eat on a renal diet |
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Wholegrains (unfortified) |
Dairy products |
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Variety of vegetables and fruits high in antioxidants |
Processed meats and meals (frozen/canned/fast foods) |
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Low in sugar |
Caffeine/carbonated drinks |
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Healthy fats (not unsaturated) |
Alcohol |
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Foods that are thought to help lower blood pressure |
High levels of protein |
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Water |
Foods high in oxalic acids |
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Fresh herbs (no spices or condiments) |
Avoid salt |
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Small servings of white carbohydrates (potatoes, white rice) |
Legumes, beans and nuts |
Supplements
Individuals with AKI, CKD and RF may benefit from taking supplements. Working together your doctor and dietician will advise you which treatment, diet and if and what supplements are suitable depending on your personal stage of AKI, CKD or RF.
- Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity, protein and glycogen metabolism, cysteine synthesis, homocysteine metabolism and normal function of the immune system
- Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant which contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
- Vitamin C contributes to collagen formation and increases iron absorption
- Burdock root/burdock root tea acts as a diuretic
- Activated charcoal can be used to help detoxify the body
- Chlorella, Spirulina; Superfoods beneficial to the body for detoxification
Any information or product suggested on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Consult your primary healthcare physician before using any supplements or making any changes to your regime.
Sources
- Renal Diet Foods List and Eating Plan for Kidney Disease - Dr. Axe (draxe.com)
- Kidney Failure Symptoms, Causes & Treatments - Dr. Axe (draxe.com)
- Nutrition in Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2022 - American Journal of Kidney Diseases (ajkd.org)
- Kidney failure, Chronic kidney disease | FULL HEALTH SECRETS
- Images: People photo created by stefamerpik - www.freepik.com Urinary system vector created by brgfx - www.freepik.com
