When it comes to the daily protection of the kidneys, in addition to paying attention to living habits, such as drinking more water, eating less salt, avoiding overwork and emotional stress, there is also a very important aspect, which is diet. So, what kind of food protects the kidneys? There are mainly the following types of foods that protect the kidneys:
1. Black food. Black food is rich in melanin and trace elements, which can nourish kidney essence, replenish qi and blood, and strengthen muscles and bones. For example, mulberries (can be used for medicine), black beans, black sesame, black rice, black fungus, black dates, etc.
Second, protein-rich foods. Protein is one of the essential nutrients that provides amino acids to promote cell repair and regeneration. However, not all proteins are suitable for the kidneys, and too much or too little is not good.
In general, animal protein is easier to be absorbed and utilized by the body than plant protein, but it is also more likely to produce uric acid and nitrogen waste, which increases the excretion pressure of the kidneys. Therefore, we should choose high-quality and low-fat animal protein, such as fish, chicken, milk, etc., and match some plant-based protein, such as beans, soy products, etc. in moderation.
3. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals are essential micronutrients that participate in a variety of metabolic reactions, regulate fluid balance and pH, and protect cells and tissues. The most important vitamins and minerals for the kidneys are the following:
1. Vitamin C: can resist oxidation, reduce uric acid levels, prevent urinary tract infections and stones.
2. Vitamin B: can promote protein metabolism, prevent kidney damage, improve kidney function.
3. Calcium: can maintain the health of bones and teeth, prevent osteoporosis, and also inhibit the formation of kidney stones.
4. Potassium: can regulate the contraction of the heart and muscles, maintain the balance of blood pressure and water, and prevent hypertension and edema. Of course, if it is a patient with kidney disease, especially people with impaired renal function, it is necessary to pay attention to the intake of potassium to avoid the occurrence of hyperkalemia.
5. Magnesium: It can stabilize cell membranes, protect the function of nerves and muscles, and also promote the absorption and utilization of calcium and prevent calcium deposits in the kidneys.
There are many foods rich in these vitamins and minerals, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, spinach, celery, bananas, pumpkins, walnuts, etc.
Fourth, food with diuretic effect, diuretic food can help the kidneys excrete excess water and waste, reduce the burden on the kidneys, prevent edema and urinary tract infections, such as: winter melon, watermelon, tea, corn whiskers, aloe vera, etc.
In summary, the above is mainly aimed at ordinary people, for our kidney disease patients, the choice of food needs to be strictly controlled. For example, diabetic nephropathy patients, bananas, pumpkins (especially old pumpkins) can not be eaten, but also follow the principle of low sugar and low calories; Patients with gout nephropathy also have to pay attention to the intake of purines.