10 Superfoods for Healthy Kidneys

8. Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers help break down toxic waste in the blood, and therefore contribute to kidney health. They are low in potassium and rich in vitamins A, B6 and C, folic acid and fiber.

When suffering from kidney problems, it is often advised to keep your potassium intake low because damaged kidneys may not be able to effectively filter potassium from your blood.

This tasty vegetable also contains lycopene, an antioxidant that protects against certain types of cancers. You can include red bell peppers in your diet in raw, baked, roasted, cooked or stuffed form.

9. Cauliflower

This cruciferous vegetable is high in vitamin C and contains a good amount of folate and fiber. It also has compounds like indoles, glucosinolates and thiocyanates that help the liver neutralize toxic substances that can otherwise damage cell membranes and DNA.

When consumed on a regular basis, cauliflower can reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels due to its antioxidant and anticlotting properties.

Cauliflower can be eaten raw with dip or in salads. You can also try steamed, boiled, fried, roasted or baked cauliflower dishes. However, being high in purines that lead to the accumulation of uric acid, cauliflower may not be siutable for those suffering from gout  and kidney stones.

10. Apples

Apples are good for detoxifying and cleansing the kidneys as they are high in fiber and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, apples help prevent urinary tract infections and thus may help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

At the same time, apples are great for reducing cholesterol, protecting against heart problems, decreasing your risk of cancer and helping prevent constipation.

Have an apple each day to keep your kidneys functioning properly. You can enjoy this crunchy and juicy fruit raw, in baked desserts, or as applesauce or juice.

According to a research published in the Journal of the American Society Nephrology, a healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, nuts, low-fat dairy products and whole grains, and low in salt, red meat, processed meat and sweetened beverages can help prevent kidney stones.