Kidneys are the bean-shaped organs that are located in the upper abdominal area of your body, in a pair of two. They perform crucial functions including blood filtration, urine production, body fluid maintenance, hormone production etc. Unhealthy dietary habits, excessive alcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle are some of the common factors that are giving rise to kidney diseases in people, globally. Additionally, diabetes, hypertension and progressing age can also add to the risk. Thus, people suffering from any kidney diseases should follow a proper diet along with their medication and treatment procedure prescribed by a doctor to prevent further damage. Find below 5 foods that you should avoid if you have kidney disease.

• Avocados

Though being one of the most nutritious foods, avocados may not prove to be a healthy choice for people with kidney diseases. This is because along with the fibre, healthy fats and antioxidants content, avocados are also rich in potassium, which is usually not recommended to individuals on a renal diet.

• Bananas

Like avocados, bananas are also high in potassium. If a person is suffering from chronic kidney disease, their kidneys lose the capacity to remove excess minerals like sodium, potassium and phosphorus from their body adequately. Therefore, a renal diet involves a limited intake of such minerals. Instead of bananas, such individuals may go for kidney-friendly fruits like pineapple to have a tasty yet healthy platter.

• Brown rice

Brown rice contains more phosphorus and potassium as compared to white rice. Though the people on a renal diet may consume brown rice in a limited amount, they are suggested to go for other nutritious alternatives such as white rice, pearled barley, buckwheat and bulgur.

• Whole wheat bread and other products

Usually, whole wheat bread is recommended to healthy people over bread made of refined flour, however, it may not suit people with kidney disorders. This is because of their high potassium and phosphorus contents, similar to brown rice. Thus, a renal diet usually involves white bread that contains less sodium content.

• Processed meat

Processed meats, like sausages, pepperoni, jerky, bacon and hot dogs contain large amounts of salts and other preservatives. Due to this, they are considered unhealthy for most people and are associated with several chronic diseases. However, their high sodium and protein content make them especially unhealthy for people on a renal diet. Such people are suggested to either avoid processed meat altogether or consume it in moderation.

The Bottom Line

Dietary restrictions depend upon the type, stage and severity of the kidney disease, other conditions that the person may be suffering from, medications they are on, their overall health status and factors such as age etc. Therefore, one should prefer consulting a professional dietician and discuss all of their health concerns, food allergies, medication, diagnostic reports and health history in detail with them to get a custom diet plan. Following a restricted diet may feel to be a hassle sometimes, however, a regulated renal diet can help you live a healthier and better life. So, if you or any of your loved ones is suffering from kidney disease, visit HJ Hospitals today to get the best medical advice in the whole of Central Africa.