09/03/2023
World Kidney Day is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys.
World Kidney Day is a joint initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations – World Kidney Alliance (IFKF-WKA).
Raise awareness about our “amazing kidneys” Highlight that diabetes and high blood pressure are key risk factors for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
For most people with advanced kidney disease, it’s important to follow a kidney-friendly diet that helps decrease the amount of waste in the blood.
This diet is often referred to as a renal diet.
It helps boost kidney function while preventing further damage.
While dietary restrictions vary, it’s commonly recommended that all people with kidney disease restrict the following nutrients:
Sodium. Sodium is found in many foods
and a major component of table salt. Damaged kidneys can’t filter out
excess sodium, causing its blood levels to rise. It’s often recommended to
limit sodium to less than 2,000 mg per day
Potassium. Potassium plays many critical
roles in the body, but those with kidney disease need to limit potassium
to avoid dangerously high blood levels. It’s usually recommended to limit
potassium to less than 2,000 mg per day
Phosphorus. Damaged kidneys can’t
remove excess phosphorus, a mineral in many foods. High levels can cause
damage to the body, so dietary phosphorus is restricted to less than
800–1,000 mg per day in most patients
Protein is another nutrient that people with kidney disease may need to limit, as damaged kidneys can’t clear out waste products from protein metabolism.
Here are some of the best foods for people with kidney disease.
1. Cauliflower
One cup (124 grams) of cooked cauliflower contains
sodium: 19 mg
potassium: 176 mg
phosphorus: 40 mg
2. Blueberries
contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which may protect against heart disease,kidney disease certain cancers, cognitive decline, and diabetes
3. Red grapes
They’re high in vitamin C and contain antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation.
Additionally, red grapes are high in resveratrol, a type of flavonoid that has been shown to benefit heart health and protect against diabetes
4. Egg whites
Egg whites provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein.
Plus, they’re an excellent choice for people undergoing dialysis treatment, who have higher protein needs but need to limit phosphorus.
Two large egg whites (66 grams) contain
sodium: 110 mg
potassium: 108 mg
phosphorus: 10 mg
For further information see the next post..