Foods that are most harmful to the kidneys
Foods high in salt increase blood pressure, and having diabetes are two risk factors for kidney problems.
The kidneys are responsible for regulating fluid balance in the body, ensuring you have enough water to function while eliminating excess water through urination. They also produce hormones that help regulate calcium and red blood cells.
Foods that are most harmful to the kidneys
What we eat and drink has a significant impact on our health.health. According toParadeAccording to specialists, the most harmful foods to the kidneys are those high in salt, such as french fries, pizza, cold cuts, processed meats, and frozen meats.
Dr. Emily Chang, from Chapel Hill University School of Medicine (USA), explains that the two biggest factors causing kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. A high-salt diet can increase the risk of both conditions. According to Dr. Chang, people with diabetes and high blood pressure have a 50% higher risk of developing kidney disease.
Dr. Chang explained: "Eating foods high in salt increases blood pressure. This pressure on the blood vessels leads to pressure on the kidneys, which have many blood vessels."
Dr. Cynthia Silva, an American nephrologist, also agrees that salty, processed foods are the most harmful to the kidneys: “Processed foods contain a large amount of preservatives such as salt, sugar, and fat, which help extend shelf life and make them taste better. This reduces the nutritional value of the food, such as less fiber, while increasing calorie intake. The kidneys are under great pressure to filter out these excess preservatives while still maintaining their daily functions.”
If you want to cut down on salt intake, Dr. Chedid recommends cooking at home and using herbs to enhance flavor, such as garlic, basil, rosemary, and mint. Unlike salt, herbs are beneficial for the body because they contain many antioxidants, preventing or reducing chronic inflammation.
Eating habits that are good for the kidneys.
The best foods for the kidneys also benefit the rest of the body. Dr. Silva says it's important to have a balanced diet (prioritizing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and plant-based protein) and to stay well-hydrated.
Dr. Alice Chedid, a nephrologist, explains that people need to control their blood sugar levels – especially if they have diabetes. “This is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease. Maintaining a healthy diet low in sugar will reduce the risk of kidney failure. It’s also important to stay hydrated, especially in hot summer weather, so that urine isn’t too concentrated. That increases the risk of kidney stone formation,” Dr. Chedid says.
If you have kidney problems, you may need to change your diet based on your doctor's recommendations. Dr. Silva says, "People with kidney disease need to control their intake of protein, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium." Eating foods high in protein will make the kidneys work harder and worsen the condition over time.