Diet to Keep Kidneys Healthy Naturally

Kidney disease is a chronic condition that often requires invasive, unpleasant management techniques. In the absence of a kidney transplant, most people with renal disorders eventually have to face life on dialysis treatments. There are some natural methods you can use to deal with kidney disease, however, such as making kidney-friendly dietary changes. Choosing food with the health of your kidneys in mind can make your condition more manageable or stop you from developing kidney problems at all.

Kidney Diet Basics

• Your kidneys are an important part of your body's waste removal system. When they are not working properly, toxins can build up in your bloodstream. Kidney-friendly diets are designed to keep those toxin levels as low as possible. In some patients, eating with your kidney health in mind may actually slow the progression of disease.

  There are three main factors in a kidney-healthy diet: low sodium, low protein and low phosphorus. Some doctors also like their patients to reduce their calcium and potassium consumption. Your doctor can help you figure out the importance of calcium and potassium in your diet plan based on the specific nature of your condition.

  Limiting your fluid intake is also a crucial part of a kidney-friendly diet, especially if you are on dialysis. Approximately 48 ounces of fluids a day is an appropriate amount for most patients. Don't forget to consider liquids you eat as well as drink in this number. As a general rule of thumb, if the food is liquid at room temperature, it is considered a liquid. This includes things like ice cream and pudding. Again, be sure to consult your doctor for a liquid quota specific to you.

Go Natural for Sodium Reduction

• Processed foods may be convenient but they are packed with sodium. You can significantly decrease your sodium intake by eating natural foods. Pick a piece of fresh fruit over canned fruit and whole chicken breasts over lunch meat. Foods that have been pickled or smoked typically have high sodium content, so choose other cooking methods. Cut salty snacks like chips and pretzels from your shopping list.

  Salt substitutes can help you quell your craving for that flavor, but these should be avoided if your doctor has instructed you to limit your potassium intake. Use herbs to add more flavor to your food in place of salt.

Avoid Hidden Protein Sources

• Most kidney patients should keep their protein consumption in the range of five to seven 7 ounces a day. To meet this guideline, restrict foods like eggs, meat and cheese. Be sure to watch out for hidden sources of protein, however. Bran is a major culprit, so avoid bran cereals and breads. Nuts and seeds are also sources of protein and should be eaten in small doses.
  Since protein is a vital part of a healthy diet, your doctor can help you determine exactly how much protein you should consume daily without straining your kidneys.

Lowering Phosphorus Intake

• Phosphorus can be trickier to manage, simply because most people aren't familiar with its sources. To control phosphorus intake, check the labels on dairy products for phosphorus content and limit your consumption. Phosphorus is also commonly found in nuts, legumes, beer, soda and cocoa-based drinks like hot chocolate.

  Approximately 800 to 1,000mg daily is a good target range for phosphorus intake, but your doctor can work you on a specific intake goal for your condition.