Learn about Foods Good for Kidney Health

Quick Take

Watermelon is one of the foods good for kidney health. Learn what other foods help and find a simple and delicious way to include them in your diet.

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Kidneys

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs with important functions. Their primary job is to remove unnecessary and harmful substances from the blood, such as excess water, excess substances the body doesn’t need because it has enough (for instance, vitamin C), waste products (from chemical reactions), and toxins. Every day, about 200 quarts of blood passes through the kidneys to filter out these substances (which become urine). The kidneys also regulate the acidity of the blood by excreting alkaline salts and releases three important hormones (renin, erythropoietin, and calcitriol).

Maintaining healthy kidneys can prevent problems like infections, stones, cancer, and failure.

Foods Good for Kidney Health

Cranberries

Cranberries help prevent kidney, urinary tract, and bladder infections. They acidify the urine and also prevent bacteria (including E. coli) from adhering to cells, which is the first step in any infection.

Cranberries are packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that damage cells, proteins, and genes. It is believed that free radicals contribute to aging and many diseases, including kidney disease.

Cranberries also contain quinic acid. Quinic acid helps prevent kidney stones, which are composed of calcium salts.

The following smoothie is a delicious way to add cranberries in your diet:

Blend 1 cup of nonfat milk, 1 very ripe banana, 1 cup of fresh cranberries, and 2-3 ice cubes until smooth.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a water based fruit (about 92% is water) that naturally cleans the kidneys by promoting frequent urination. It is packed with nutrients and powerful antioxidants. Eating watermelon regularly can help prevent kidney damage and kidney stones.

Besides having fun eating watermelon, try this tasty and nutritious recipe:

Blend 2 cups of fresh watermelon pieces (cubed) and 1 cup of fresh raspberries. Add 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream and blend until smooth.

Cabbage, Root Vegetables, and Bananas

According to research, regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially cabbage, root vegetables (such as carrots, beets, radishes, and sweet potatoes), and bananas, may reduce one’s risk of kidney cancer. Many root vegetables and bananas contain high amounts of phenolic compounds (antioxidants), and cabbage is high in sulfur compounds that help protect kidney function.

Cabbage can be made into slaw and root vegetables can be added to soups and salads. The following recipe includes cabbage and carrots:

In a large bowl, mix 1 large cabbage (shredded), 1 small green bell pepper (sliced), 2 green onions (chopped), and 2 large carrots (shredded).
Mix 3/4 cup of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of celery seeds, 3 tablespoons of prepared mustard, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add 2/3 cup of vegetable oil and 1/2 cup of white sugar. Mix until the sugar is dissolved and pour over the vegetables.
Have it sit for 1 hour in room temperature, stirring occasionally. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 24 hours, stirring occasionally.
Before serving, season the coleslaw with freshly ground black pepper.

To include more bananas in your diet, try the above cranberry recipe or try this healthy treat: