If you have a family member or a loved one with kidney disease, then there are many different things that you can do to help them keep the disease under control. Of course, one of the most important things that you can do is to support them in their journey. Here are some concrete things that you can do that may help them feel better.
Limit Salt
Salt can be found in many unsuspected places, so help them clean out their pantry of all food containing an excessive amount of salt. Check breakfast cereals carefully as many brands contain up to 350 milligrams of salt per one cup serving. You will also want to look at any tomato sauces as they can contain over 510 milligrams of salt along with any Asian sauces. You will also want to check out loaves of bread as they can contain over 190 milligrams per slice.
Get Adequate Protein
It is important that the person with kidney problems get the right amount of protein each day. While traditional thinking says that you should help the person concentrate on eating foods like red meat and poultry containing complete protein or carefully balance plant proteins to account for all nine amino acids required by the body to build protein, current thinking says that as long as the person is getting enough calories balancing is unnecessary. Some vegetables containing protein are peas, kale, broccoli and spinach. Eating the right amount without going over is important because while the body needs protein to build and repair muscles, eating too much makes the kidneys have to work harder.
Keep Blood Sugar Levels Within Range
Spiking or crashing blood sugar levels can be hard on the kidneys. Eating nuts is a great way to keep blood sugar stable, and they help the person with kidney disease get the healthy fats that they need. Cinnamon may help the body produce insulin faster without causing it to spike. Additionally, consuming just two ounces of apple cider vinegar may help keep blood sugar within a normal range. The family member needs to realize that having too much sugar in their bloodstream makes it hard for their kidneys to function properly.
Stay Hydrated
Getting an adequate amount of water intake can help slow growth of cysts in the kidneys and help the kidneys to function properly. While a person going to a facility or using a home kidney dialysis machine will want to listen to their health care provider, most people need about 64 ounces of water each day. If drinking that much water seems like a daunting task, then consider eating fruits high in water like most melons and strawberries. Additionally, try juicing with fruits and vegetables that have high water content.
Following the advice in this article may help your family member with kidney disease feel better. Of course, as with any disease, it is important to listen to your health care provider because they know the unique situation. If you suspect that a family member’s kidneys are not functioning properly, then get them to see a doctor very soon.
