World Kidney Day: Insights from an expert on diet, salt intake and hydration
Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit overall health, including kidney function.
As World Kidney Day is marked on Thursday, the attention turns to the vital role nutrition plays in maintaining kidney health.
The kidneys work tirelessly to filter waste, balance fluids, regulate blood pressure, and maintain electrolyte levels. Given their essential function, it is crucial to take proactive steps to protect them.
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To gain deeper insights into how diet affects kidney function, The Eastleigh Voice spoke with Tracy Theuri, an independent registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) consultant at Aga Khan University Hospital.
She sheds light on optimal dietary choices, the impact of salt consumption, the importance of hydration, and specific recommendations for individuals at risk of kidney disease.
Best foods for healthy kidneys
A well-balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can significantly support kidney function.
Theuri emphasizes that consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit overall health, including kidney function.
In particular, she recommends apples, berries, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower as excellent choices.
Whole grains are another crucial component of a kidney-friendly diet which she recommended, in moderation.
"Whole grains such as barley are rich in soluble fibre, which can help lower cholesterol and support cardiovascular health, indirectly benefiting the kidneys," Theuri said.
Theuri noted the importance of managing the intake of proteins.
"Opting for lean protein unprocessed sources like fish, poultry, and plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils can reduce the burden on the kidneys compared to high-fat animal proteins," she said.
Managing salt intake
Excessive sodium consumption is a well-documented risk factor for hypertension, which in turn can lead to kidney damage. Theuri highlights the importance of monitoring salt intake, recommending that individuals limit sodium to less than 2 grams per day (equivalent to less than 5 grams of salt) to maintain optimal blood pressure and reduce the risk of kidney disease.
THe World Kidney Day in Kenya was marked at the Kenyatta National Hospital. (Photo: Kenya Renal Association)
"Be cautious of high-sodium foods such as processed meats, canned soups, pickles, and certain condiments. Always try and read food labels, when shopping to help identify and avoid these hidden sources of sodium," she warns.
She further emphasised that processed foods are a major culprit in kidney damage and should be avoided as much as possible.
The role of hydration
Theuri noted that proper hydration is essential for kidney health, as it helps flush out toxins and prevent kidney stones.
She notes that drinking sufficient water daily aids in urine dilution and facilitates the elimination of waste products.
"Hydration requirements vary based on factors such as age, activity level, and climate. However, the general recommendation is to consume at least two to three litres of water per day to maintain kidney health," she said.
She noted that a lack of proper hydration can lead to toxin buildup, increasing the risk of kidney stones and infections.
"The kidney is responsible for removing waste. If you don't hydrate enough, toxins are not flushed out effectively, which increases the likelihood of complications," she added.
Dietary recommendations for individuals at risk
For those at risk of kidney disease, Theuri noted that making tailored dietary modifications is crucial.
Theuri stresses the need for controlled protein intake, particularly among individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
"Limiting protein intake to 0.55-0.6 grams per kilogram of body weight per day can help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease," she advises.
Additionally, Theuri advised that monitoring phosphorus and potassium intake is essential for individuals with kidney disease.
"People with chronic kidney disease should limit foods high in phosphorus, such as dairy products and nuts, and those high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes. Excess phosphorus and potassium can disrupt electrolyte balance, leading to complications," she warned.
Can certain foods and supplements improve kidney function?
While maintaining a balanced diet is key, some specific foods and supplements may offer additional support for kidney function.
Theuri recommends alkaline-forming foods like leafy greens, berries, and citrus fruits, which help maintain a favourable PH balance and support kidney health.
However, she cautioned against the indiscriminate use of supplements.
"Not all supplements are beneficial for kidney health. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen," she advises.
“Certain probiotics, such as yoghurt, kimchi, and fermented milk (mala), have been shown to reduce toxin buildup in chronic kidney disease patients. Additionally, vitamin D-rich foods like fish, beef liver, and eggs and omega-3 fatty acids can support kidney function.”
For dialysis patients, she said nutritional needs vary significantly.
"Dialysis patients need to monitor their potassium, phosphorus, and sodium intake closely, as imbalances can have severe health consequences," Theuri explained.
"For non-dialysis kidney patients, a low-protein diet is often recommended to reduce stress on the kidneys."
The dangers of processed foods, excess sugar, and red meat
Unhealthy dietary choices can accelerate kidney damage. Theuri warned against long-term consumption of processed foods, excessive sugar, and red meat, as these contribute to metabolic disorders that increase the risk of kidney disease.
"High sugar intake leads to blood sugar spikes, increasing the risk of diabetes, obesity, and kidney disease," she explained.
"Added sugars, found in sodas and processed foods, should be minimized by Kenyans, especially by older people and children."
She said that red meat consumption should also be moderated, especially for individuals with kidney disease.
"Too much red meat can cause excess protein breakdown, leading to a build-up of waste products that overwork the kidneys," she noted.
Theuri noted that high sodium intake was another concern for Kenyans.
"Although salt is good for the body as it helps balance some functions, too much salt contributes to high blood pressure, fluid retention, and kidney damage over time. Processed foods often contain excessive sodium and should be eliminated where possible," she said.
Theuri also said that inorganic or processed phosphorus, found in soft drinks, canned foods, and processed meats, poses an additional risk.
"Before consuming any food, especially ‘packaged’ food, check the ingredient list to identify the processed phosphorus sources as some are more harmful than the natural phosphorus," she advised.
The importance of regular kidney function tests and lifestyle choices
Beyond diet, regular kidney function tests are critical in detecting potential issues early.
Theuri stresses that awareness of dietary habits and making informed food choices can prevent kidney complications.
"If you have any dietary changes that are needed, consult a professional. Healthy lifestyle choices should always come first. Every time before you consume something, look at its nutritional value rather than just the taste," she said.
For those with a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, or hypertension, adopting a whole-food, plant-based diet is key.
"Whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are the best for kidney health. Hydration, reduced salt intake, and maintaining a healthy weight also play significant roles," she said.
She advised Kenyans to eat whole foods, limit processed food, and stay hydrated are the most effective strategies to support kidney health.
"Traditional, natural foods have always been the healthiest option. The rise in lifestyle diseases is closely linked to our increased consumption of processed foods. We need to go back to eating real food," Theuri said.
"Making informed dietary choices is a proactive step toward preserving kidney function and overall well-being. Let's commit to nurturing our kidneys through conscious nutrition and lifestyle choices. On this World Kidney Day, let's take these insights to heart and make kidney health a lifelong priority.”
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