What Vegetables and Fruits can Help Improve Kidney Function Naturally

For kidney patients, diet can play an important role in how the kidney functions. Avoid foods high in potassium, which some fruits and vegetables -- such as bananas and spinach -- contain. However, fruits and vegetables often contain high levels of antioxidants and essential vitamins that can help improve your immune system and prevent infections.

Vegetables
Many vegetables can help to improve kidney functions, as long as they are low in potassium. Red bell peppers, for example, are a good source of vitamins C, A and B-6, folic acid, fiber and the antioxidant lycopene. Cabbage contains phytonutrients that help break up free radicals and prevent certain diseases. Cauliflower is high in vitamin C and fiber and contains compounds that can help improve kidney functioning. Onions are another super-food that is high in antioxidants that can help prevent certain diseases, including diseases of the kidneys. All of these vegetables are low in potassium.

Fruits
Apples are high in antioxidants and relatively low in potassium and sodium. Apples are also high in fiber and help to reduce inflammation, which can improve kidney function. All types of berries are considered super-foods because they contain phytonutrients, nutrients from plants that contain protective compounds. Berries, such as blueberries, cranberries and strawberries, are also low in potassium and high in antioxidants, which can help to protect against free radicals, a group of highly reactive atoms that can cause damage to cells. Red grapes and cherries are also healthy fruits for kidney functions.

Besiedes, patients with kidney disease should limit the amount of protein they eat. Sodium, potassium and phosphorous are minerals that can worsen kidney problems. Avoid fruits such as bananas, oranges and dried fruits, because they are high in potassium. Vegetables with high potassium levels include tomatoes, spinach, artichoke and acorn squash.
Read more: Herbs That Return Kidneys Filtration to Normal 
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