6 best foods for kidneys as per top gastroenterologist

As per the National Kidney Foundation, millions of people are suffering from kidney diseases and mostly because of irregular lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. It is said that the kidneys are vital organs that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. They act as the body’s natural filtration system, removing toxins, excess salts, and waste products from the blood while regulating fluid and electrolyte balance. They also help control blood pressure, support red blood cell production, and activate vitamin D for strong bones. They also maintain the body’s acid-base balance, ensuring that organs and tissues function properly. And to keep the kidneys healthy, it is important to pay attention to what you eat. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities, recently shared a video on Instagram, where he explained about best foods for kidneys and how they help keep the kidneys healthy and active. Scroll down to read the details.

As per his video, herbs like cilantro, basil, parsley, thyme and oregano are packed with antioxidants and are good for human kidneys. Basil leaves are naturally diuretic and can increase urine production, helping the kidneys flush out excess salts, toxins, and uric acid, which may reduce the risk of kidney stones and improve overall kidney function.

As per Dr Sethi, beetroots have nitrates that can reduce blood pressure, easing the load on your kidneys. As mentioned in the study, beetroot shows promise as a functional food for supporting kidney health through improved vascular function, reduced inflammation, and oxidative stress mitigation. It has also shown that the persistent consumption of beetroot juice effectively postpones the postprandial glycemic response and decreases the blood glucose peak. The significant blood pressure lowering effect has been seen among normotensive subjects, which tend to be more considerable among hypertensive individuals and progressive among overweight adults. And, a reno-protective property of beetroot juice is associated with the reduction of mortality rate and favorable changes in kidney’s functional parameters among patients with renal disorders. Its betalains act as natural detoxifiers that support the body’s filtration process. However, beetroot is high in oxalates, so people with a history of kidney stones (especially calcium oxalate stones) should consume it in moderation. Beetroot contains antioxidants like betalains, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in kidney tissues.

They are loaded with vitamins and low in potassium and therefore are kidney friendly, he states in the video. It is said that blueberries can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in kidney tissues, which are key factors in preventing or slowing kidney damage. A study by the National Kidney Foundation, a blueberry-enriched diet improved renal function and decreased oxidative stress in animals with metabolic syndrome, largely through inhibiting the TLR4-MAPK signaling pathway, which is involved in inflammation and kidney injury.

These are low in phosphorus and high in healthy fats, making them a great snack for protecting kidney function. As per experts, macadamia nuts support healthy lipid profiles too and are recommended in kidney-friendly diets.

As per experts, cranberry juice is a popular home remedy for urinary tract infection (UTI), credit its antioxidant properties. Cranberries are also considered natural antibiotics that prevent any bacterial growth in the digestive tract or the kidneys. A research study showed that cranberries had the potential to treat calcium oxalate kidney stones. It is also mentioned in the study that supplementation of cranberries may have beneficial effects on human health such as prevention of urinary tract infections.

They are a rich source of phytochemicals that help protect the heart and kidneys. As per experts, regular consumption of cherries helps reduce inflammation, especially kidneys. As per the National Kidney Foundation, sweet cherries are high in potassium (>200 mg in 3.5 ounces, which is almost one-half cup), while sour cherries are considered a low potassium food (<200 mg in 3.5 ounces). It is always suggested to consult your dietitian, if you need to limit potassium and can help you fit cherries into your diet.


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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is meant for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.