Foods to Avoid on a Renal Diet

When talking about a balanced diet it’s important to make sure you have all your bases covered. There is far more to living a healthy lifestyle than exercise, portion control and simply counting calories, and making smart food choices like reducing your sugar and fat intake. When it comes to physical well being, you need to watch out for your kidneys because you need them to survive. People with kidney problems or patients who have struggled with renal failure need to make sure they avoid foods that are high in protein, overly rich with sodium or phosphorous, and must manage their potassium intake as well in order to make sure they have healthy fluid levels. The human body is really amazing when you think about it. If you put in the time and effort to treat your symptoms you can naturally reverse the effect of most health issues by making the right choices an every day habit.

In order to follow a diet that can boost kidney health it is important to do more than just consume foods that support it; you have avoid certain food items all together if you’re on a Renal diet including the following:

High in Sodium
The first foods to avoid on a renal diet for those high in sodium. By reducing sodium intake you’ll be able to regulate blood pressure, remain hydrated for longer periods of time and prevent water retention as well. Processed meat products and many other fresh meats are high in sodium as well as most prepackaged soups and sauces. Avoid these kinds of products and adding additional salt; instead choose alternative herb and spices mixes, and always going for low sodium food versions.

High in Potassium
High potassium foods are dangerous because they can cause build up and end up affecting your heart. Potassium is usually nothing to worry about but when it comes to patients struggling with renal failure and poor kidney functionality it’s important that you avoid foods high in potassium which include various fruits and vegetables such as oranges, nectarines, raisins and others. While these are typically considered healthy foods, their high potassium content can make them dangerous for individuals with kidney problems.

Protein
A certain amount of protein is also considered part of a balanced diet but if you are consuming too much protein, you’ll want to cut back. Protein can increase the amount of waste that ends up in your blood and cause your kidneys to work overtime. Foods that are high in protein range from various meats, seafood, and eggs to some dairy products.

Phosphorus
Phosphorous rich foods are often attributed to renal failure and kidney problems because it builds up in the blood makes the kidney work harder in order to cleanse blood flow. Phosphorus can also reduce the amount of calcium your bones require for optimal growth and strength. Soft drinks are the most notorious when it comes to sources of phosphorous but it is also a factor in dairy products, nuts, beans and various other foods.

A balanced diet is so much more than trying to lose weight or gain muscle; it’s about your health and well being, treating your body like a temple instead of a trash can. Kidney and renal failure health problems are serious issues that have to be treated to ensure a long, healthy and balanced life. Also keep in mind; prevention is the best medicine so consider how you’re living now, make the necessary adjustments, and look forward to a life full of vibrant good health.