Diet is one of the easily adjustable factors you can improve on kidney health. This is because the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste, balancing electrolytes and maintaining fluid levels in the body. When kidney function is impaired, some foods can help you reduce the strain on your kidneys or worsen the damage. Managing your protein intake, con trolling sodium, potassium and phosphorus levels and staying hydrated appropriately can slow the progression of kidney disease, prevent complications like fluid overload or heart problems, and improve overall well-being. Some desi foods can support kidney health in kidney patients if chosen wisely and in consultation with a doctor or dietitian. In this article, we share desi foods you can add to your diet as a kidney patient for better health.
Desi foods that kidney patients can consider including in their daily diet
1. Lauki
Bottle gourd is light, hydrating and low in potassium, which makes it easy on the kidneys. It helps prevent water retention and supports digestion without adding unnecessary pressure on kidney function. Steamed or boiled lauki with minimal salt can be a gentle, nourishing choice.
2. Tinda
Tinda also known as Indian round gourd is another low-potassium vegetable that is soft in texture and easy for you to digest. It is cooling in nature, which may help reduce internal heat and inflammation. A simple tinda sabzi cooked with jeera and minimal oil works well for kidney patients.
3. Turai
Turai or ridge gourd is rich in fibre yet low in sodium and potassium which makes it ideal for those with kidney issues. Turai can help prevent constipation, which is important as waste elimination becomes slower in kidney disease. A light turai curry or stir-fry with a pinch of turmeric is both kidney- and digestion-friendly.
4. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a versatile, kidney-safe vegetable that provides vitamins C and K without overloading potassium. It can replace high-potassium vegetables like potatoes in curries and parathas. Light steaming or boiling before cooking helps further reduce potassium content.
5. Cabbage
Cabbage is low in potassium and phosphorus but high in vitamins and fibre. It can be used raw in small amounts in salads or lightly sautéed for a side dish. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also benefit overall health.
6. Bottle gourd juice (diluted)
When taken in moderation and only if prescribed, diluted lauki juice can help with hydration and mild detoxification. It should be fresh, made without added salt, and consumed immediately to prevent bacterial growth.
7. Jeera water
Cumin water aids digestion and reduces bloating. It can be taken warm in the morning or sipped through the day in small amounts. Since kidney patients often have to limit fluid intake, this should be counted toward total daily fluid allowance.
8. Moong dal
Among pulses, moong dal is considered one of the gentlest for kidney patients due to its lower protein load compared to heavier dals like chana or urad. Preparing it thin (dal ka pani) with minimal salt and spices makes it easy to digest.
9. Apple
Apples are low in potassium and a good source of fibre and antioxidants. They help control cholesterol and blood sugar which are two factors that often affect kidney health. Peeled, sliced apples can be eaten raw or lightly stewed.
10. Guava
Guava, when eaten in moderation, provides vitamin C and fibre without excessive potassium. Overripe guavas should be avoided as their potassium levels are higher. A small, ripe, and firm guava can be a healthy snack.
11. Rice
White rice is low in potassium and phosphorus, making it a safer grain choice for kidney patients than whole wheat or brown rice, which are higher in these minerals. It can be paired with low-potassium vegetables or light dals for a balanced meal.
12. White bread
While not traditionally encouraged for healthy individuals, in kidney patients who need to limit potassium and phosphorus, white bread can sometimes be a better option than whole-grain bread. It should be consumed in moderation and preferably alongside fresh, kidney-friendly vegetables.
Incorporate these desi foods in your today if you are a kidney patient trying to improve your health.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
