1. Fatty fish
Fatty fish such as mackerel, herring, sardines, salmon... possess high levels of omega-3. This is a good fatty acid with anti-inflammatory effects, improving kidney problems. According to research, omega-3 helps reduce the risk of developing end-stage kidney disease in people with kidney disease and people with other underlying diseases. In addition, this nutrient can also control the amount of fat absorbed, preventing obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure,...
2. Sweet potatoes
Potassium in sweet potatoes has the ability to help balance sodium and reduce the accumulation of fluid that this mineral causes for the kidneys. However, because sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, patients with chronic kidney failure before and during dialysis should limit the absorption of this food.
3. Berries
Berries such as blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, grapes,... possess a variety of antioxidants such as ellagic acid, anthocyanins and resveratrol. These compounds have the ability to protect and improve kidney function effectively, specifically:
Ellagic acid: According to research, this compound has the ability to minimize the risk and prevent the progression of chronic kidney failure due to poisoning.
Anthocyanins: Have been shown to improve kidney function, especially in people with kidney failure due to diabetes.
Research shows that resveratrol supplementation is an effective therapy to help prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease and minimize the risk of death in people with this disease.
4. Apples
Apples are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, quercetin, catechins, and beta-carotene. These compounds have a powerful effect in protecting and preventing kidney damage. Specifically:
It has been shown that it has the ability to reduce toxicity in the kidneys, protecting the kidneys from fibrosis and nephritis swelling.
Research shows that catechin compounds can be used to heal acute kidney damage caused by COVID-19.
In addition, this fruit also possesses natural potassium content - a mineral that helps maintain the acid-base balance in the body. As a result, the pH level of urine is always kept at a normal level, and the risk of kidney stones due to high alkaline urine is also limited.
5. Red bell peppers
Vitamins A and B6 in red bell peppers help regulate oxalate levels in urine, preventing the formation of kidney stones. Meanwhile, folate has the ability to prevent chronic kidney failure from deteriorating. In addition, the combination of lycopene and vitamin C in this fruit also helps protect the kidneys from infections and damage caused by oxidative stress. In particular, lycopene has also been proven to reduce the risk of death in people with kidney disease.
6. Cabbage
Cabbage contains other antioxidants such as kaempferol and apigenin. These are two compounds belonging to the flavonoid group, capable of preventing kidney cell carcinoma through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In addition, the large amount of fiber in cabbage also helps improve the digestive system, beneficial for people with malnutrition due to poor kidney function. Therefore, this will be one of the indispensable kidney-boosting foods to maintain a healthy physical condition.
7. White cauliflower
The content of sodium, potassium and phosphorus in white broccoli is relatively low, very suitable for people undergoing treatment or at risk of kidney failure. In addition, this vegetable also contains a lot of fiber and antioxidants such as vitamin C, indole, sulforaphane, which have the effect of protecting the kidneys from toxins and infections. In particular, sulforaphane has been shown to be able to prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease. Currently, the compound is also being clinically tested for breast cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer.
8. Garlic
According to research, allicin in garlic has the ability to lower blood sugar, fight inflammation, oxidative stress and protect the kidneys. Eating garlic regularly not only helps strengthen kidney function but also helps the kidneys avoid harmful agents such as oxidation, free radicals, and toxins. Therefore, this is one of the indispensable kidney-boosting foods in the daily diet.
9. Onions
Onions and garlic are two perfect spices to replace table salt, helping you minimize daily sodium intake. In addition, soluble fiber in onions also has the ability to help improve digestion by strengthening the gut microbiome. As a result, digestive disorder symptoms - factors contributing to kidney failure - will be effectively controlled.