The human kidney should be in a healthy condition. However, kidney diseases are common conditions that affect around 10% of the world population [1]. The human kidneys are small, but they perform essential functions. 

One of the human kidney’s significant functions is the filtering of waste products, releasing hormones for blood pressure regulation, and balancing fluids in the body. The kidneys also help in the production of urine and perform other critical functions in the body. 

Various factors can cause damage to the kidneys in the body. Some of these factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, age, and gender [2]. Fortunately, certain foods help in maintaining kidney health and heal the human kidneys. 

Here are some of the foods that heal kidneys. 

Cauliflower 

Cauliflower is a vegetable with a lot of health benefits. It contains a high amount of nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and the B vitamin folate. This vegetable also contains many anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles and has a great source of fiber. 

There are several health benefits of consuming cauliflower. The vegetable may support a healthy heart due to the plant compound called sulforaphane. The presence of that plant compound helps in reducing the risk of cancer. Note that this function also applies to other vegetables like cabbage or broccoli. 

Cauliflower is rich in sulfur, making it able to support gut health and improve the body’s defense mechanism against some significant infections. 

Sea Bass and Egg Whites 

Sea bass is a quality source of protein that contains very healthy fats known as omega-3s. The fat helps in reducing inflammation and also lessens the risk of depression and anxiety. Unlike most seafood, sea bass contains a low amount of phosphorus. However, ensure that high portions of sea bass are not consumed to prevent high intake of phosphorus. 

In 85 grams of sea bass, individuals can get 74mg of sodium, 279mg of potassium, and 211mg of phosphorus. The presence of sodium in sea bass also helps in the needed muscle contraction and influences the overall body blood pressure. 

For individuals on a renal diet, egg whites are more advisable over egg yolks. Consumption of egg whites offers a kidney-friendly source of protein. This food is also helpful for individuals going through dialysis treatment with a higher protein need but less requirement for phosphorus. 

Since egg whites are low in calories, fat, and cholesterol, they are excellent food choices for individuals who want to lose weight. In two large egg whites, individuals can enjoy 110mg of sodium, 108mg of potassium, and 10mg of phosphorus. 

Blueberries and Apples 

Blueberries contain various nutrients, and they are one of the best sources of antioxidants that individuals can consume. They contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which help protect the body against heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and cognitive decline. 

The inclusion of blueberries in an individual’s daily diet serves as an excellent inclusion because they are low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. In 148 grams of fresh blueberries, individuals can get 1.5 mg of sodium, 114mg of potassium, and 18mg of phosphorus. 

Apples are well-known to reduce cholesterol, prevent constipation, and protect against heart illnesses. It’s also known as a fruit that helps in reducing the risk of cancer. Apples are high in anti-inflammatory compounds, which are very healthy for reducing inflammation. 

Including apples in a diet for good kidney health is advisable. Other health benefits of apple include its use for weight loss due to high fiber and water content. Research has also linked the consumption of apples to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes in humans. 

Buckwheat 

Most whole grains are high in phosphorus content, but buckwheat doesn’t have high levels of this element. It’s highly nutritious and offers a good amount of B vitamins, iron, fiber, and magnesium. Buckwheat is an excellent choice for individuals with celiac disease due to its gluten-free nature. 

In a half cup of cooked buckwheat, individuals can get 3.5mg of sodium, 74mg of potassium, and 59mg of phosphorus. Generally, buckwheat provides improved heart health, reduced blood sugar, and protects against cancer. 

Buckwheat helps heart health by reducing inflammation and lower LDL, also known as bad cholesterol. It reduces low blood sugar due to its low glycemic index. Due to its dietary fiber content, food is kept moving smoothly through the digestive tract. 

Garlic 

Garlic is an excellent alternative to salt because individuals with kidney issues may be advised to limit sodium intake, including added salts. It also adds a great flavor to dishes while offering nutritional benefits to the body. 

Garlic is an excellent source of manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, and it also contains sulfur compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. In 9 grams of garlic, individuals can get 1.5mg of sodium, 36mg of potassium, and 14mg of phosphorus. 

Garlic also proves to be effective in combating some sicknesses like the common cold. The supplements are known to boost the functioning of the immune system. According to a 12-week study [3], it was discovered that a daily garlic supplement reduced the number of common colds by 63% compared to a placebo. 

Bulgur 

Bulgur is a whole grain wheat product and an excellent kidney-friendly alternative to other grains with high phosphorus and potassium levels. Bulgur contains a reasonable amount of B vitamins, manganese, and iron. The presence of B vitamins is known to help prevent infections and support cell health. 

The manganese in Bulgur helps in improving bone health when combined with other essential nutrients. It also has strong antioxidant properties that may help in reducing the risk of diseases in the body. Thanks to the manganese in Bulgur, the whole grain plays a part in regulating blood sugar. 

Bulgur is an excellent source of plant protein and complete dietary fiber, essential for the digestive system’s overall health. In 91 gram serving Bulgur, individuals can receive 4.5mg of sodium, 62mg of potassium, and 36mg of phosphorus. 

Cabbage 

Cabbage is among the cruciferous vegetable family known to contain many vitamins, minerals, and vital plant compounds. This vegetable is a good source of vitamin K, B vitamins, and vitamin C. 

Cabbage offers insoluble fiber, a type of fiber that keeps the digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements [4]. Individuals can benefit from this vegetable because it’s low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. One cup of shredded cabbage will provide 13mg of sodium, 119mg of potassium, and 18mg of phosphorus. 

There are several health benefits of consuming cabbage. Some of the significant health benefits of this vegetable include keeping inflammation in check due to antioxidants’ presence. Cabbage helps in keeping the heart-healthy, thanks to the presence of anthocyanins. 

Onions 

Onions are great at offering a sodium-free taste to individuals on a renal diet. Lowering salt intake is quite challenging for all individuals, making it essential to find flavorful salt alternatives. Onions are necessary for adding flavor to food without compromising the health of the kidney. 

Onions are well-known to be high in vitamin C, manganese, and B vitamins. They also contain a reasonable number of prebiotic fibers that help keep the digestive [5] system healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria. 

In 70 grams of onions, you can get 3mg of sodium, 102 mg of potassium, and 20mg of phosphorus. 

Conclusion 

The food choices in this write-up are excellent for individuals creating a healthy renal diet. It’s important to discuss food choices with a doctor always to consume the appropriate diet. Note that dietary restrictions vary depending on the type and level of kidney damage, including the degree of medical interventions like medications. 

Source: https://entirelyhealth.com/conditions/kidney/best-foods-for-kidney-health/8/