Our kidneys are of vital importance to health – they eliminate toxins via the urine, keep protein in the body by filtering it out of the urine, balance electrolytes, fluid and acid-base levels, stimulate red blood cell production and activate vitamin D. People with high blood pressure or diabetes need to take especially good care of their kidneys because they’re at greater risk of damage. In addition to good preventive health care, regular urine and blood screening starting at age 40 can identify kidney issues before they progress. The presence of protein, red or white blood cells in urine and the amount and type of protein your kidneys filter in a 24hr period are key indicators.

Foods that Promote Kidney Health

  • Berries
  • Cherries
  • Grapes
  • Organic blue corn
  • Celery
  • Matcha green tea
  • Hibiscus tea
  • Curries
  • Watermelon
  • Green peas
  • Low mercury fish
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Coconut

Foods to Absolutely Avoid If You Have Kidney Issues

  • Aspartame
  • Starfruit
  • Fast foods
  • Fried foods
  • Splenda
  • Hydrogenated oil
  • High Fructose Corn Syrup
  • Beer
  • Distilled alcohol
  • Boxed cereal
  • Conventionally raised meats
  • GMO corn
  • Coffee
  • Soy

Lifestyle Support for Kidneys

  • Stay hydrated – generally 35ml water for each kg body weight is recommended.
  • Avoid exposure to heavy metals – get rid of aluminum cookware, drink filtered water, consult ewg.org for a list of low-mercury fish, avoid metal amalgam fillings.
  • Eat organic foods – whole grains, nuts, legumes, colorful fruits and vegetables, cold-water fish. If protein is present in your urine switch to low-moderate protein intake, about 0.6-0.8g for each kg body weight.
  • Limit sodium to 1,500mg daily if you have high blood pressure.
  • Obesity, smoking and sedentary lifestyle are risk factors for kidney disease – incorporate regular physical activity and stress reduction.
  • Detox through other pathways of elimination – skin and colon. Regular sweating with exercise, sauna, hot bath/shower. Support regular elimination through the bowels with adequate water, fiber, physical activity and colonics if needed.
  • Avoid use of diuretics or consult with your physician to use minimum dosage necessary.
  • Supplement with omega-3 fats, bromelain and turmeric/curcumin.