Our kidneys perform several crucial functions in the body. These include filtering blood, and removing waste, that helps us stay healthy. However, with a poor diet and lifestyle, our kidney function can get impaired over time. However, the good news is that while Cognitive Kidney Damage (CKD) is not reversible, it is completely treatable. The regular consumption of some foods leads to higher kidney disease risks, elevated blood pressure, and impaired waste removal by your body. Your ability to select healthy foods for life-long wellness improves, when you understand which foods damage your kidneys. Here are 5 such foods that you should stay away from, to protect your kidneys…Processed foodsThe consumption of processed foods, which includes packaged snacks, deli meats and ready-to-eat meals, leads to kidney damage, because these products contain artificial ingredients, and unhealthy fats and excessive salt. Research indicates that consuming ultra-processed foods (UPFs) leads to kidney disease development, that accelerates kidney function deterioration. The high sodium content in these foods, forces your kidneys to work excessively, while simultaneously increasing blood pressure and causing blood vessel damage. Research published in 2022 demonstrated that processed food consumption leads to a 24% increased risk of developing kidney disease, and disrupts gut health, while producing toxic substances accumulate for kidney elimination. Your kidneys benefit from consuming fresh and unprocessed foods, instead of processed ones.
Red and processed meatsYour kidneys face difficulties while processing saturated fats and proteins which exist in red meat and processed meat products, including bacon, sausages and deli slices. Research demonstrates that consuming high amounts of animal protein, results in accelerated kidney function deterioration and increased chances of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). Research conducted on large populations demonstrates that people who consume the most animal protein from red and processed meat sources, develop higher risks of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, during extended periods. Your kidney health will benefit from replacing red meat with plant-based protein sources, including beans, nuts and lentils in your diet.High-sodium foodsYour kidneys experience damage when you consume foods with high salt content, because they have to retain more water, hence straining them. The excessive consumption of sodium leads to elevated blood pressure, which stands as the primary reason for kidney disease worldwide. The kidneys need to eliminate excess salt, which causes progressive damage to their structure, eventually developing poor filtration ability, and kidney failure. The CDC reports that processed foods and restaurant takeouts, account for 75% of total salt consumption in the United States, rather than home salt usage. Reducing your consumption of concealed salt, will protect your kidneys from damage and disease development.
Soda and sugary drinksResearch indicates that drinking soda regularly, whether it contains sugar or artificial sweeteners, leads to negative effects on kidney function. The combination of artificial sweeteners and high phosphate content in these beverages, accelerates the deterioration of kidney function. Research indicates that people who drink two or more sodas daily, face an elevated risk of developing chronic kidney disease because of blood sugar and blood pressure changes, along with waste filtration problems. The combination of acidic and bubbly characteristics in soda drinks, leads to dehydration and kidney stone development, which puts additional stress on the kidneys. Drinking water, herbal teas and diluted fruit juice (cold pressed) instead of soda, will help you maintain kidney health throughout your life.Foods high in PhosphorusProcessed foods contain excessive phosphorus additions, which occur naturally in various foods, including cheese spreads, deli meats, sodas and baked goods. The kidneys experience excessive workload because they need to eliminate excessive phosphorus, which enters the body through these hidden food additives. The kidneys lose their ability to function properly when exposed to phosphorus for extended periods, which results in mineral imbalances, bone disorders and heart disease. Research indicates that people with kidney disease or at risk, should avoid phosphorus additives, while checking food labels and preparing their meals at home.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice
