You might have learnt about the role and importance of kidneys in bodily functions during your science lessons at school. However, how often do we think or care about the health of our kidneys?
If we don’t, we are increasing our risks of developing kidney problems and diseases in the future. Diabetes and hypertension can also increase the risk of kidney diseases.
The kidneys are the warriors of the human body. They play a pivotal role in removal of wastes and extra fluid from the body.
They also help in maintaining a healthy balance of water, salts, and minerals in our blood, which is necessary for good health.
However, an improper lifestyle consisting of unhealthy food choices can hamper the health and functioning of your kidneys.
Here are some foods items which you should stop eating:
1. Processed meats
Processed meats such as bacon, sausages, hot dogs, and burger patties are a huge threat to your kidney health. They are high in sodium and excess sodium intake on a regular basis may increase blood pressure and create extra stress on your kidneys. Research also suggests that intake of more animal protein than plant protein may increase the rate of kidney disease progression.
2. Soda
Sodas are high in sugar content and have hardly a drop of nutritional value. These add extra calories to your diet, which can result in weight gain. Studies have found that consuming sodas is linked to health conditions like osteoporosis (in which bones become weak and brittle), kidney disease, metabolic syndrome and dental problems. It’s time to avoid sodas at all costs and go back to drinking water or healthier flavoured beverages such as fresh lemonade.
3. Frozen meals
Studies have shown that processed foods like frozen meals and microwaveable dinners may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. Heavy processing means your meal could be full of hidden fat, sugar or sodium. It is always better to prepare fresh and whole foods and avoid frozen foods which you can fry or heat for immediate consumption. If you have to eat frozen food, then opt for those which have “low sodium” or “no sodium added” written on the label. You can also try to balance these out by adding fresh fruit and vegetables from your kitchen.
4. Fried potatoes
If you are consuming potatoes from packaged foods like chips or at a fast food chain in the form of French fries, it is safe to say that these fried forms of potato are not doing any good to your precious kidneys. Deep-fried foods should be avoided to protect your heart and kidneys from diseases. Potatoes are also high in potassium, which is advised to minimise if you are already suffering from kidney diseases.
5. Mayonnaise
Your go-to mayonnaise for salads or sandwiches may be deteriorating the value of your otherwise healthy veggie-packed meals. Just one tablespoon of mayonnaise contains 103 calories. Along with that, mayo is also generally high in saturated fat. Again, if there is no way you’ll avoid it, opt for fat-free or low calorie mayonnaises, but make sure these are not high in sodium and sugar. It’s best to substitute mayonnaise with super healthy Greek yogurt or hung curd.
