Kidneys play a vital role in performing various important functions in the human body such as maintaining the electrolytic balance, excretion of waste materials, maintaining the right acid-base balance, and regulating the blood pressure. Kidneys excrete waste materials and ammonia quite efficiently, and at the same time, reabsorb water, glucose and amino acids. But sometimes, some dietary minerals get accumulated in the urine and form crystals which affect the normal functioning of the kidneys. Kidney stones are also known as renal calculi, and they might contain different chemical compositions in different humans. There are a number of super foods that keep you from renal calculi. Let’s have a look!
1. Red Bell Peppers
Besides adding piquant taste and color to the dish, there is much more red bell peppers can do. Red bell peppers are low in potassium content, but contains plethora of vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin C, B6, and fiber. Moreover, they also contain significant levels of lycopene which is a type of antioxidant that prevents certain types of cancer. They are an excellent super food for a healthy kidney.
2. Cauliflower
Just like cabbage, cauliflower is yet another affable vegetable for your kidney’s well being. It is rich in vitamin C along with folate and fibers. It also contains compounds that help the liver to neutralize the toxic substances. So, one can consume cauliflower in a number of ways – either as a main dish or side dish. In whatever way you intake, it is certainly going to be beneficial for your kidneys and body.
3. Cabbage
Cabbage is a kind of cruciferous vegetable that is loaded with phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are efficient in fighting off the free radicals in the body and are also believed to treat and combat carcinogens, thereby, reducing the risk of cancer. Besides, it contains high levels of vitamin B6, A, K, C, and low levels of potassium which make this veggie a kidney-friendly food.
4. Onion
Onions also come under the category of foods that make your dish more ambrosial. They are full of flavonoids, particularly quercetin, which prevent the deposition of fatty substances in the blood vessels. Quercetin is also known to protect our body against various carcinogens and heart disorders. Being low in potassium, onions are friendly and safe for your kidneys. They also contain chromium- a kind of mineral that assist our body with the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
5. Garlic
Garlic is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties and also for reducing the levels of cholesterol in the body. It is also a powerful antioxidant. On cooking, the anti-inflammatory properties of garlic reduce, however, the antioxidant properties doesn’t get affected. It is recommended that one should consume garlic on a regular basis to shield the kidneys from the detrimental effects of heavy metals.
6. Blueberries
Blueberries contain an antioxidant, called anthocyanin. They also contain high levels of vitamin C and fibers, and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Apart from this, they are also rich in manganese which is good for developing stronger bones. Blueberries can be enjoyed in a number of ways – as a smoothie, milk shake, juice or simply as fruity bites.
7. Apples
Apples are extremely high in fibrous content and also have anti-inflammatory properties. Besides, they also play a key role in controlling cholesterol, preventing constipation, and protecting against heart diseases and also some carcinogens. They can be cooked or eaten raw, or you can even consume a glass full of apple juice.
8. Cranberries
Cranberries play a significant role in preventing various kidney-related problems, such as renal infections and renal calculi, by making the urine more acidic. Cranberries also protect against carcinogens and heart disorders. So, one can enjoy juice of fresh cranberries to stay fit and healthy throughout the year.
9. Strawberries
Strawberries have anti-inflammatory properties and ward off carcinogens and heart related disorders. Besides, they are rich in vitamin C, manganese and fibers, like other berries. You can top the strawberry sauce over your favorite smoothie or drink up a glassful of strawberry shake to keep your kidneys in the pink.
10. Raspberries
Raspberries are known to contain a compound, called ellagic acid, which fights off free radicals present in the body. They are also well-off in manganese, vitamin C, folate, and vitamin B. Because of all these powerfully active compounds and nutrients, raspberries are considered good for renal health.
11. Cherries
Cherries are loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals. They make for a very ambrosial dessert and snack, and are also known to keep the heart and kidney-related disorders at bay.
12. Red Grapes
The red color in grapes is imparted by a variety of flavonoids. Grapes are well-known to increase the levels of oxygen in the bloodstream. One of the flavonoids found in grapes is reservatol, which stimulates the production of nitric oxide and improves the flow of blood. Flavonoids also fight against carcinogens and heart diseases. On the whole, red grapes are quintessential super food for your kidneys.
13. Olive Oil
Studies in numerous countries have revealed the fact that people who used olive oil had the lower risk of getting heart problems and cancer. The reason being, olive oil is rich in oleic acid which is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. Besides, it is also good for the health of your kidney. Hence, it is advisable to replace your cooking oil with olive oil to keep yourself hale and hearty.
14. Fish
Fish are yet another high quality and the purest source of proteins. They also hold significant quantities of omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce levels of cholesterol and also fights carcinogens and heart ailments. Some of the most beneficial varieties of fish are tuna, salmon, mackerel, herring, and rainbow trout.
15. Egg Whites
Egg whites contain the highest levels of natural proteins that too, in the purest form. These proteins have all the essential amino acids needed by the body. Being low in phosphorus contents, egg whites are excellent for kidneys. One can have egg in a variety of ways – scrambled, boiled or egg sandwiches.