5 tips to protect kidney health

Your doctor explains how food helps treat and prevent kidney stones

Food is the key to a healthy life. Through food it is possible to obtain the vitamins, nutrients and proteins essential for the proper functioning of the body. However, just as some foods can offer benefits, others can harm your health, especially when consumed in excess.

In the case of kidney stones, some foods such as vegetables, legumes, cereals and greens favor kidney function, but other substances, generally fat and rich in sodium, aggravate the organ’s situation. “Diet is key in stone prevention, as urine composition is directly related to diet,” says Dr. Caroline Reigada, nephrologist, specialist in internal medicine and nephrology.

Next, the professional explains how to protect kidney health. I wait!

1. Reduce your salt intake

Sodium causes an increase in urinary calcium excretion, generating the accumulation of small crystals in the kidneys which can promote the formation of kidney stones. “It is also essential to use a little salt when preparing food and avoid salty ones. In this sense, an important tip is to focus on natural seasonings to flavor the food: garlic, onion, parsley, chives, coriander, lemon or anything else you like should be on the list. The more spices you use, the less salt you’ll need,” says the doctor.

two. Avoid convenience foods

The expert also explains that processed foods are not recommended, as they are rich in phosphorus and substances that cause kidney overload. “We should avoid: Sausages, relishes and ready-to-eat sauces, canned foods, preserves, yellow cheeses, bagged soups and instant noodles, salted meats, snack foods, salty or sweet filled crackers, margarine or salted butter, regular or light cream cheese, pasta prepared with mayonnaise, pâtés, and MSG products (check the label for ready-to-eat tomato sauce, snacks, canned sardines, farofa, and ready-made condiments).

3. Watch out for excess protein and carbohydrates

As far as macros go, watch out for excess protein (especially animal-based protein) e carbohydrates. “Go for lean meats, fish, or skinless chicken,” says the doctor. “Carbohydrates (rice, potatoes, pasta, bread, sweets) are not prohibited, but if consumed in excess they can promote weight gain, which contributes to the formation of kidney stones, because they contain fibers that help intestinal functioning and help in satiety,” says Dr. Carolina Reigada.

4. Consume oxalate foods in moderation

Coffee, chocolate milk, black, mate or green tea, chocolate, nuts, peanuts, shellfish and seafood should be consumed sparingly. “These foods are rich in oxalate, a substance that favors the formation of stones when in excess. People predisposed to absorb more oxalate in the intestine (Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis, short bowel syndrome) should follow this orientation more,” says Dr. Carolina Reigada.

5. Use supplements only with guidance

You vitamin supplements also enter the account. Do not consume without medical advice: “The excess of certain vitamins (C and D) can lead to the formation of stones. Therefore, do not use without indication”, concludes the doctor.

By Paola Amoroso

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.