5 Vegetables to Eat More of for Better Kidney Health, According to Experts
Key Points
Your kidneys work harder than you may think. Around the clock, these two bean-shaped organs filter waste, balance fluids and help regulate blood pressure. Your kidneys also filter about a half-cup of blood every minute while helping to maintain healthy electrolyte levels and supporting bone and red blood cell health.
Because your kidneys are so essential for your well-being, keeping them healthy and functioning at their best is nonnegotiable, especially since chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects an estimated 35.5 million U.S. adults. Additionally, high blood pressure and diabetes remain the leading causes of kidney disease, which is why lifestyle habits like nutrition can have a major impact on your kidney health.
The good news? Eating more nutrient-rich, plant-forward foods can lead to better kidney health. “Someone with CKD needs to take extra precautions to protect their kidney and overall health, and focusing on a plant-rich diet is a great starting point,” says a Dr.
Here are five vegetables dietitians recommend eating more of for better kidney health.
1. Beets
Beets are packed with nutrients that may help support kidney health, particularly when it comes to blood pressure management and inflammation. “Beets (or beetroot) are rich in dietary nitrate, which is converted to nitric oxide and promotes vasodilation, lowering blood pressure,” says Bruno.
Beets contain compounds called betalains that act as antioxidants in your body. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, which are associated with kidney damage and CKD progression, making antioxidant-rich foods an essential part of kidney health.
Try adding roasted beets to salads, blending them into smoothies or tossing them into grain bowls for an easy nutrient boost.
2. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are some of the best vegetables for supporting kidney health. These vegetables are rich in compounds called glucosinolates and sulforaphane, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
“Cauliflower in particular is touted as a kidney-friendly staple because it is lower in potassium compared to many other vegetables, while still providing beneficial fiber, vitamin C and folate,” Bruno explains.
Roast broccoli or cauliflower with olive oil, toss frozen riced cauliflower into smoothies, or swap mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower.
3. Red Bell Peppers
“Red bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A, with relatively low potassium and very low phosphorus,” says Bruno. “They are high in the antioxidants lycopene and beta-carotene, which support reduction of oxidative stress, a key driver of CKD progression.”
Oxidative stress can damage kidney tissue, which is why antioxidant-rich vegetables can help improve long-term kidney function. Plus, red bell peppers add flavor, crunch and color to meals without the need for sodium-rich sauces or seasonings.
Slice red bell pepper into salads, roast it with other vegetables or dip it in hummus for a simple, kidney-friendly snack.
4. Garlic & Onions
“Garlic and onions are an excellent way to flavor dishes without needing salt, which can help keep meals something you look forward to,” explains Bruno. “They also have the benefit of containing organosulfur compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties."
Choosing flavorful salt alternatives like garlic and onions can be beneficial for kidney health, as high sodium intake can increase blood pressure and place additional stress on your kidneys.
Garlic and onions are incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate into everyday meals. Use them as a base for soups, stir-fries, roasted vegetables, sauces and marinades.
5. Green Beans
“Green beans are a good choice [for kidney health] because they are low in potassium and water content,” says a Dr. “They also provide fiber, which can be hard to get in when monitoring specific vegetable intake.”
For those living with CKD, monitoring your potassium intake is crucial, since your kidneys may struggle to remove excess potassium from your body effectively. Try steaming green beans as a side dish, roasting them with olive oil and garlic, or adding them to stir-fries and salads.