There is always a thought that people with a plant-based diet have more kidney problems. But is it true or just one of vegan diet myths? And the answer is, any diet filled with proper nutrition can increase kidney function, including the plant-based diet.

So, let’s first study how it can, and then we will discuss which foods can help. Let’s begin!

How a Plant-Based Diet Can Improve Kidney Function

Well, we have seen how kidney disease has become a major health-related concern in recent years. It can lead to cardiovascular disease, end-stage renal disease, and even death. The leading causes of impaired kidney function are brought on by the patient’s genetic makeup, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

It’s only kidneys that filter out harmful substances such as excess water, phosphorus, toxins, metabolite, and drugs. Hence, they are so important to the overall well-being of our bodies. All such waste is removed with the process of urination. Moreover, the kidneys detoxify our blood. However, waste cannot be efficiently filtered out if your kidneys become impaired, and it builds up and up. And, that can cause problems like heart disease, anemia, nerve damage, and weak bones.

Fortunately, the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found in a recent study stated that eating a vegan diet could improve kidney function. The reason behind it is optimum levels of phosphorus in plant-based diets as it can cause a lot of wear and tear on the kidneys as they work to filter it out of our bodies.

According to reports, the studies found that patients who consumed meat in diets have high levels of phosphorus in the bloodstream compared to those that prefer a plant-based diet. It is because the animal sources, plant sources of phosphorus are less bioavailable. Hence, based on researches, it was decided that patients with chronic kidney disease consume a plant-based diet instead of a meat-heavy diet only to evade high accumulations of toxic phosphorus levels in the body.

In all, we can say, without the absorption of excess phosphorus, our kidneys can function efficiently, and further complications from kidney disease can be prevented which means consuming a plant-based diet is very important to the kidneys.

Best Vegan Foods for our Kidneys

When it comes to a plant-based diet, there are some of the specific foods and beverages that are exceptionally great for cleansing the kidney so they can function to the best of their ability. Here is the list of the best kidney cleansing food and beverage products.

1. Cranberries and Cranberry Juice

Cranberry is a great addition to any diet. They are not only with a rich array of nutrients, but they also work wonders at clearing out the kidneys. This is because they have specific benefits to the urinary tract that prevents bacteria from developing.

2. Radishes

Radishes are the vegetables that are low in potassium and phosphorus, but high in other nutrients like protective vitamin C hence very useful in kidney functioning.

3. Arugula

If you are looking for a plethora of vitamins and minerals, as well as naturally occurring nitrates, Arugula is the right thing. These nitrates present in Arugula have been known to lower blood pressure, which is very important for those with kidney disease.

4. Grapefruit

It is another fruit that is a great source of vitamin C but low in potassium. Vitamin C aids with bacterial removal and supports the immune system hence great for kidneys.

5. Red Bell Peppers

Red Bell Pepper is a genus of flowering plants that is very low in potassium. Potassium is a nutrient that generally makes chronic kidney disease more critical because it causes the bladder to empty too often. Moreover, Red Bell Pepper is also loaded with antioxidants that have protective qualities; hence, it is great for kidney functioning.

Also, as we all know, water is the best and purest way to flush harmful toxins out of the body. Yes, its biggest advantage is the frequent water consumption can prevent bacterial infections and the development of kidney stones.

Final Thoughts

Hence, we can say, a diet low in potassium and phosphorus is key for those who suffer from kidney disease. And, the above discussion also proves that a plant-based diet is the best way to avoid elevating phosphorus levels. Hence, this is another evidence that shows that there are several life-transforming health benefits of turning into a vegan.

However, if you are not suffering from kidney disease, but still want to improve or maintain healthy kidneys, follow the above suggestions and achieve great benefits.