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Nutrition to Improve Kidney Function

The kidneys work hard to keep you healthy. They filter waste from the bloodstream, promote red blood cell production and encourage lower blood pressure. There are many people who have health problems, such as diabetes, that leave them at risk of developing kidney disease. Eating right is especially important if one is at risk for kidney disease.

  1. Soy Protein

    • Protein is an important part of any diet. It builds muscle and repairs damage in the body. Unfortunately, many sources of protein are harmful to someone at risk for kidney disease. When a diabetic, for example, eats animal protein, the levels of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) shoot up and reduce his function. After consuming soy protein, however, the person's GFR remains unchanged. Soy is a good choice for improving kidney function.

      Soy comes in many forms. Drink soy milk or use it in a fresh fruit smoothie to get your daily intake of fruit. Soy protein powders are also available; they can be added to smoothies to increase protein intake. Experiment with different brands of soy protein bars until you find one you like.

    Eliminating Phosphorus

    • Phosphorus is normally removed from the bloodstream by the kidneys. When kidneys aren't functioning properly, it is best to eliminate or lower your intake of phosphorus to reduce the amount of work the kidneys must do.

      Foods high in phosphorus include dairy products, nut products and high-calorie drinks. Use dairy substitutes to replace milk, yogurt and cheese. Eliminate nuts and peanut butter from your diet. Finally, stop drinking soda and beer, which are extremely hard on the kidney due to the amount of phosphorus they contain.

    Lower Sodium Intake

    • The kidneys, blood pressure and sodium intake are all connected. By lowering sodium intake, you improve your blood pressure and your kidney function. The body needs some sodium, but you'll need to cut back a great deal.

      Become conscious of how much salt is in the foods you eat. Start reading labels and stop eating fast food. Look for items labeled "reduced salt" or "reduced sodium." Cook extra chicken at dinner and use the leftovers for chicken sandwiches the next day instead of lunch meat. Find replacements for the foods you love that are high in sodium, and it will be easier to stick with the new diet to improve your kidney function.

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