Top 3 foods that boost your kidney health naturally

Diet tips to keep kidney healthy: What we eat has a direct impact on the health of our kidneys. Include lemons, cucumber and parsley in your daily diet (Images: Canva)

Kidneys play an important role in the body and are part of the urinary system. Their role is to filter fluids from the blood every day, removing waste and balancing the body's fluids, including water and electrolytes. They also regulate blood pressure.

Kidney health is thus important, as what we eat can have a direct impact. Dr. Eric Berg, a nutritionist and chiropractic doctor, has recommended these three foods that can boost kidney health.

Health benefits of cucumbers

Cucumbers have high water content, which, according to Dr. Berg, helps the body to stay hydrated. More water content implies that waste products such as creatinine and uric acid are being flushed out by the kidneys.

Also read | How to keep your kidneys healthy: Diet, exercise, sleep & managing chronic diseases like diabetes

Cucumbers make for a healthy option, as they are low in calories and suitable for those on a diet. They can be eaten as part of salads, dressings or coolers. However, those prone to calcium oxalate stones should exercise caution and have them in moderation.

Health benefits of lemons

Lemons offer many health benefits and are good for kidneys. They are rich in Vitamin C and citric acid which prevents formation of kidney stones. According to studies, drinking lemon juice diluted in water or juice of two lemons can lower the risk of kidney stones and raise urine citrate levels.

Regular consumption can lower uric acid levels. However, people who have sensitive stomachs and suffer from acid reflux should consult a doctor before incorporating them into their routine.

Also read | Superfoods for kidney health: Add kale, berries, quinoa and others to your healthy diet

Health benefits of parsley

Parsley not only adds freshness and flavour to your salads and foods, it is also good for your kidney health. Because of its high antioxidant content, it helps control kidney diseases by lowering oxidative stress. Flavonoids with anti-inflammatory qualities, such as quercetin, luteolin, and apigenin, are found in parsley.

Parsley can improve metabolic indicators, lower oxidative stress, improve kidney function, and check the formation of bacterial and fungal strains. Additionally, parsley helps with chronic illnesses linked to inflammation and oxidative damage, as well as kidney-related disorders.

All three foods are easily accessible, affordable, and can also be grown at home in your kitchen garden, ensuring they are chemical-free and safe to consume.