The kidneys have a very important role for health, especially for filtering the rest of the body's metabolism and excess fluid from the blood, and removing it through urine. Eating a variety of foods that are good for the kidneys can keep this organ healthy and functioning optimally.
When kidney function is disturbed, the rest of the body's metabolism and excess fluid from the blood will accumulate in the body and cause various diseases. Therefore, kidney health should really be maintained. One way is to eat foods that are good for the kidneys.
Various Foods that are Good for Kidney Health
Eating the right foods is an important step to maintain kidney health. Foods that contain excessive salt, potassium, phosphorus, and cholesterol will burden the kidneys because they are quite difficult to filter, so the kidneys need to work harder.
Some of the following foods have good content for the kidneys, so they can help maintain kidney health:
1. Apple
Apples are low in potassium which are friendly to the kidneys. Apples also contain fiber which can lower cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
To get these benefits, you are advised to eat apples with the skin that has been washed clean. If you want to be varied with other low-potassium fruits, you can try pineapple, grapes, strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Onion
To limit the intake of salt in the diet, you can use onions as a substitute for the seasoning. Onions can keep dishes delicious and healthy at the same time.
Try using garlic and onions as seasonings in cooking, as they are both low in potassium and phosphorus. The trick, stir-fry onions with the food you want to cook.
3. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Consumption of fish is also good for keeping the kidneys healthy, especially fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, snapper, and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients for various body functions, including kidney function.
The types of fish above are also good for people with kidney disorders. If you don't like fish, fish oil supplements or nuts, such as walnuts, are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the kidneys.
4. Cabbage, cauliflower, bell pepper, and radish
These vegetables have low potassium levels, and contain vitamin C and other antioxidants that are good for kidney health, especially in counteracting the bad effects of free radicals.
5. Egg white
Egg white is a source of protein that is low in phosphorus content, so it is good for the kidneys. However, limit the consumption of egg yolks, because this part contains a lot of phosphorus.
In addition to eating foods that are good for the kidneys, you are also advised to drink about 8 glasses of water per day, not to drink excessive vitamins or herbal supplements, limit caffeine intake, and avoid alcoholic beverages and foods or drinks that contain lots of chemicals, such as dyes, flavorings, and preservatives
If necessary, you can consult a nutritionist about the types of foods that are good for the kidneys, or with an internal medicine doctor to get a kidney health check.