When people talk about health and fitness, the majority of them focus on the workouts. But people forget about the silent powerhouse – the Kidneys. They not only filter toxins in your body. Kidneys are responsible for balancing fluids and keeping blood pressure in control. If you want them to perform optimally, there’s no need to shift to supplements. Making good food choices can be the best way to promote kidney health and fitness. So now, let’s dive into 7 superfoods to enhance kidney health.
Table of Contents
Red Bell Peppers
Red Bell Peppers are one of the most preferred choices for health and fitness enthusiasts. They are crunchy and sweet. Being rich in vitamins C, A, and B6, you can consider them in your diet to improve kidney health. Along with them, the potassium level is low too, and the presence of lycopene boosts your cardiovascular health. Try it in your salad to add extra taste.
Cauliflower
Never underestimate cauliflowers for your health and fitness needs. They are a flexible food choice for anyone who wants something with high detoxifying abilities. Enriched with vitamin C, folate, and fiber, it aids digestion and eliminates toxins as your kidneys do.
Blueberries
Due to low potassium, sodium, and phosphorus content, Blueberry is the leading fruit for all individuals who want better kidney health. In addition, they contain anthocyanins and plant pigments that occur naturally and provide the intense color. This fruit can also combat oxidative stress that leads to kidney aging.
Cabbage
Cabbage is enriched with vitamins K and C. It also contains a lot of fiber and phytochemicals that break down harmful toxins in your body. For the kidney-conscious people, it would be a great choice because of its low potassium levels. You can have it in many forms, including raw as well by adding it to the salad.
Apples
No wonder we have kept hearing “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” since school time. Apples are full of fiber, especially pectin, which controls your blood sugar and cholesterol. These two are the significant contributors to your kidney health. Mostly, people have it raw, but you can try it with different food combinations.
Garlic and Onions
When you want to reduce salt consumption, trust garlic and onions. They can add fragrance to any meal without needing sodium. In fact, allicin is also present in Garlic, which acts as a natural chemical to reduce inflammation. It has antimicrobial properties too that reduce blood pressure and protect kidney cells from damage.
Olive Oil
Olive Oil is more than a culinary staple; it can go too far in protecting your kidneys. The presence of monounsaturated fat will make your heart safe and bid adieu to inflammation. Forget about the collection of excess phosphorus and potassium in your body.
Papaya Seeds/Moringa Seeds
Among all the foods that boost your fitness and health, papaya or moringa seeds can’t be forgotten. Both of them are rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds shown to support kidney function:
- Papaya Seeds have potent antioxidants such as phenolic compounds and flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) that protect kidney tissues from damage. Some researches suggest that they may help minimize organ injury and support detoxifying processes to reduce strain on the kidneys.
- Both Ayurveda and modern research value Moringa seeds for their nutrient values. It is capable of converting glucosinolates into isothiocyanates and aids in kidney detoxification. Additionally, it brings down cortisol levels by acting as an adaptogen. As a result, it boosts kidney function. and blood circulation regulation.
Trust the Process: Balanced Habits for Kidney and Fitness Health
Stay consistent in improving the health and fitnes by ensuring these things:
- Strive for 6-8 glasses of water every day unless and until your physician instructs you to keep it less
- Start avoiding foods with high sodium content, especially canned soups, salted snacks, and frozen dinners, which affect your kidneys
- Monitor your protein consumption closely because the excess of it that you get from processed foods will strain the kidneys.
- Physical exercise is necessary in your everyday life, as it regulates your blood pressure and sugar levels
- Add magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and whole grains to avoid the buildup of kidney stones
Final Thoughts: Incorporate Kidney Health into Your Fitness Regimen
It’s impossible to bring changes in your diet overnight. Taking small and deliberate steps like replacing your lunchtime snack with an apple or using olive oil for dinner preparation can be of great help. While working on your health and fitness journey, ensure that your kidneys remain healthy. They work quietly in your body during every yoga pose or session at the gym.