Other Tips for Supporting Kidney Health
Here are a few additional strategies that can help support healthy kidneys.
- Watch your sodium intake. Diets high in sodium can contribute to elevated blood pressure, which can damage your kidneys in the long term. Instead of adding salt to everything or eating ultra-processed foods, choose herbs, spices and vegetables for extra flavor.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking enough fluids helps your kidneys remove waste and maintain balanced fluid levels. Wonder what to drink? Water and electrolytes are typically your best options for hydration.
- Manage blood sugar and blood pressure. Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of CKD. Eating well-balanced meals, staying physically active and following your treatment plan can help protect and support kidney function.
Our Expert Take
Vegetables such as beets, cruciferous vegetables, red bell peppers, garlic, onions and green beans provide nutrients and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, support healthy blood pressure and protect kidney function. Also, those with advanced kidney disease may need to pay closer attention to nutrients like potassium and sodium in their diet. The best approach for better kidney health is to eat a well-balanced, plant-forward eating pattern while working with a health care provider or a registered dietitian if you have underlying kidney concerns.