by Every second Thursday in March (in 2023 on March 9) World Kidney Day is celebrated, a date established by the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Renal Foundations (IFKF) 13 years ago.
The objective of this day is to raise awareness among the world population about the early detection of kidney diseases. According to data from the international non-profit organization World Kidney Day, By 2022, 10% of the world’s population will suffer from chronic kidney disease which, if left untreated, can be fatal.
The kidney is responsible for filtering toxins from the body through urine, removes excess sodium from the body, generates red blood cells, and maintains balanced water, electrolyte, and pH levels in the body. One of the main recommendations of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to maintain the health of this organ is to take care of the diet.
The most recommended foods to take care of the kidney are those that improve cardiovascular health since hypertension is one of the main causes of kidney failure.
Fruits with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties
First is the apple, which is high in soluble fiber, pectin, and antioxidants. These two properties mean that eating apple helps to improve intestinal transit and the neutralization and elimination of free radicals in the body. The ideal is to consume an apple daily or prepare a compote without added sugar to enjoy the benefits.
In addition, consuming this fruit helps prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer, protects the brain, contributes to strengthening memory and prevents cavities.
Another ideal fruit to take care of the kidney is blueberries. These small berries contain anthocyanin, the compound responsible for giving blueberries their characteristic color. which is also an antioxidant that helps improve blood flow, reduce free radicals in the body and is chemoprotective. In fact, studies carried out by the United States Department of Agriculture classify blueberries as the food with the highest antioxidant power among 40 vegetables and fruits analyzed.
Finally, eating grapes helps to take care of the kidneys and fight anemia and fatigue, thanks to its high level of water, calcium, magnesium, iron and vitamin C. This fruit provides around 70 and up to 110 calories per 100 grams, as well which is a natural generator of energy.
Recently it was shown that the consumption of grapes helps prevent the appearance of cancer cells and cardiovascular diseases. According to the center of Cancer Care of Western New York, this is thanks to the presence of resveratrol in the grapes.
Green vegetables and low in phosphorus and potassium
Another recommendation is to include green leafy vegetables such as chard, lettuce and spinach in the diet. The latter is a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A and K, thiamine, phosphorus and folic acid. Consuming it can help the health of hair, bones and skin, it is also a great food for blood sugar control, prevent asthma and also reduces the risk of developing cancer.
What are the worst foods for the kidney?
The ideal is to reduce the consumption of protein, salt, potassium and phosphorus. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommends reducing your intake of these foods:
Alcohol.
Fried foods are best baked, broiled, or sautéed.
Meats with high amounts of fat. The ideal is to eliminate that fat and remove the skin of the birds before eating them.
Reduce the intake of saturated fats and trans fats.
