What foods help repair kidneys and liver

The 20 Best Foods for People with Kidney Disease

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Heres our process.

How we vet brands and products

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

If you have kidney disease, you may need to follow a special diet, usually low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. This may not heal your kidneys, but it can help make them healthier.

When your kidneys arent working properly, waste builds up in the blood, including waste products from food. People with kidney disease can benefit from following a special diet known as a renal diet.

Here, we look at 20 of the best foods for people with kidney disease.

Dietary restrictions vary depending on the level of kidney damage. People with later-stage kidney disease will have different restrictions from those with early kidney disease.

At any stage, the diet will need to boost kidney function while lowering the risk of further damage.

While dietary restrictions vary, people with kidney disease typically need to restrict the following nutrients. The kidneys may have difficulty removing or processing these nutrients, and high levels can cause damage to the body.

Since kidney disease has close links with heart disease, its best to combine these choices with a heart-healthy diet one that contains plenty of fresh, plant-based foods and is low in saturated fats.

Everyones experience of kidney disease varies, so its important to talk with a doctor about your individual dietary needs.

Here are 20 foods that may improve kidney health or prevent it from worsening:

Cauliflower provides many nutrients, including vitamin K, folate, and fiber. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Try mashed cauliflower in place of potato for a low potassium side dish.

One-half cup or about 62 grams (g) of boiled cauliflower without salt contains:

• sodium: 9.3 milligrams (mg)
• potassium: 88 mg
• phosphorus: 20 mg
• protein: 1 g

Blueberries are rich in nutrients and antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which may protect against heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases.

Theyre also low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium.

One cup (148 g) of fresh blueberries contains:

• sodium: 1.5 mg
• potassium: 114 mg
• phosphorus: 18 mg
• protein: 1 g

Sea bass is a fish option that provides high quality protein. It also contains healthy fats called omega-3s. Omega-3s may help prevent a range of diseases and boost the health of those living with long-term conditions.

Three ounces (85 g) of cooked sea bass contains:

• sodium: 74 mg
• potassium: 279 mg
• phosphorus: 211 mg
• protein: 20 g

However, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommends eating small portions of meat or fish, as high protein levels can make the kidneys work harder.

One portion is 23 ounces of chicken, fish, or meat, or a piece around the size of a deck of cards.

Red grapes are a good source of antioxidants called flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.

One half-cup (75 g) of red grapes contains:

• sodium: 1.5 mg
• potassium: 144 mg
• phosphorus: 15 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Egg whites provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein that is low in phosphorus.

Egg whites may be a better choice than whole eggs for people on a renal diet, as egg yolks can be high in phosphorus.

Two large, raw egg whites (66 g) contain:

• sodium: 110 mg
• potassium: 108 mg
• phosphorus: 10 mg
• protein: 7 g

Garlic provides a tasty alternative to salt, adding flavor to dishes while also providing nutritional benefits.

Its a good source of manganese and vitamin B6. It also contains sulfur compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Three cloves (9 g) of garlic contain:

• sodium: 1.5 mg
• potassium: 36 mg
• phosphorus: 14 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Buckwheat is a whole grain thats low in potassium. It also contains B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber.

Its also gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

A half cup (85 g) of buckwheat contains:

• sodium: 0.8 mg
• potassium: 391 mg
• phosphorus: 295 mg
• protein: 11 g

Olive oil is a healthy source of vitamin E and mostly unsaturated fat. Its also phosphorus-free, making it a suitable option for people with kidney disease.

Most of the fat in olive oil is oleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

Whats more, monounsaturated fats are stable at high temperatures, making olive oil a healthy choice for cooking.

One tablespoon (14 g) of olive oil contains:

• sodium: 0.3 mg
• potassium: 0.1 mg
• phosphorus: 0 mg
• protein: 0 g

Bulgur is a whole grain wheat product and a kidney-friendly alternative to other whole grains that are higher in potassium and phosphorus.

Bulgur provides B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, as well as plant-based protein and fiber, which is important for digestive health.

A half-cup (70 g) serving of cooked bulgur contains:

• sodium: 154 mg
• potassium: 48 mg
• phosphorus: 28 mg
• protein: 2 g

Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds.

The authors of a 2021 study note that white, green, and red cabbage can help:

• manage blood sugar
• reduce the risk of kidney and liver damage
• prevent oxidative stress and obesity

A cup (70 g) of shredded savoy cabbage contains:

• sodium: 20 mg
• potassium: 161 mg
• phosphorus: 29 mg
• protein: 1.4 g

Skinless chicken breast has less fat and phosphorus than chicken with the skin on.

One cup (140 g) of cooked, skinless chicken breast contains:

• sodium: 104 mg
• potassium: 358 mg
• phosphorus: 319 mg
• protein: 43 g

NIDDK advises people with kidney disease to limit portions of meat and fish to 23 ounces, as high protein levels can make your kidneys work harder.

Bell peppers are high in vitamins A and C and other antioxidants but low in potassium.

These nutrients are important for immune function, which is closely linked with kidney disease.

One medium red pepper (100 g) contains:

• sodium: less than 2.5 mg
• potassium: 213 mg
• phosphorus: 27 mg
• protein: 1 g

Reducing salt can be challenging, but onions are one way of providing sodium-free flavor to renal diet dishes.

Sauting onions with garlic, olive oil, and herbs can add flavor to dishes without compromising your kidney health.

Onions provide vitamin C, manganese, and B vitamins, including folate. They also contain prebiotic fibers that help keep your digestive system healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.

One small onion (70 g) contains:

• sodium: 3 mg
• potassium: 102 mg
• phosphorus: 20 mg
• protein: 0.8 g

Arugula is a flavorful and nutrient-dense green that is low in potassium, making it a good choice for kidney-friendly salads and side dishes.

Arugula provides vitamin K, manganese, and calcium, all of which are important for bone health.

This nutritious green also contains nitrates, which can lower blood pressure an important benefit for those with kidney disease.

One cup (20 g) of raw arugula contains:

• sodium: 5 mg
• potassium: 74 mg
• phosphorus: 10 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Most nuts are high in phosphorus and are not suitable if youre following a renal diet.

But macadamia nuts are a delicious option for people with kidney problems. Theyre lower in potassium and phosphorus than peanuts or almonds.

They also provide calcium, healthy fats, folate, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese.

One ounce (28 g) of macadamia nuts contains:

• sodium: 1.4 mg
• potassium: 104 mg
• phosphorus: 53 mg
• protein: 2 g

Radishes are crunchy vegetables that make a nutritious addition to a renal diet. Theyre very low in potassium and phosphorus but contain other important nutrients, such as folate and vitamin A.

Their peppery taste makes a flavorful addition to low sodium dishes.

A half cup (58 g) of sliced radishes contains:

• sodium: 23 mg
• potassium: 135 mg
• phosphorus: 12 mg
• protein: 0.4 g

Turnips are root vegetables that provide fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

They can be roasted or boiled and mashed for a healthy side dish that works well for a renal diet. Alternatively, serve raw, grated turnips with a salad or add them to a winter stew.

A half-cup (80 g) of cooked turnip cubes contains:

• sodium: 160 mg
• potassium: 159 mg
• phosphorus: 22 mg
• protein: 1 g

Pineapple can make a sweet treat for people with kidney conditions. Its lower in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium than oranges, bananas, or kiwis.

Pineapple is also a good source of fiber and vitamin A, and it contains bromelain, an enzyme that may help reduce inflammation.

One cup (165 g) of pineapple chunks contains:

• sodium: 2 mg
• potassium: 180 mg
• phosphorus: 13 mg
• protein: 1 g

Cranberries contain phytonutrients called A-type proanthocyanidins. These are antioxidants that may prevent urinary tract and kidney infections by reducing bacteria levels in urine.

Cranberries are also low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium.

There are close links between urinary tract infections (UTI) and kidney infections, and a UTI can lead to kidney complications.

You can eat cranberries dried, cooked, fresh, or as a juice.

One cup (100 g) of whole, fresh cranberries contains:

• sodium: 2 mg
• potassium: 80 mg
• phosphorus: 11 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Shiitake mushrooms are a savory ingredient that you can use as a plant-based meat substitute. Theyre suitable for people with kidney disease who follow a plant-based diet and anyone on a renal diet who needs to limit their protein intake.

Theyre an excellent source of B vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium. They also provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.

Shiitake mushrooms are lower in potassium, sodium, and phosphorus than portabella and white button mushrooms, making them a good choice if youre following a renal diet.

One cup (145 g) of cooked shiitake mushroom pieces without added salt contains:

• sodium: 6 mg
• potassium: 170 mg
• phosphorus: 42 mg
• protein: 2 g

What is the best diet for kidney disease and kidney failure?

It may not be possible to heal your kidneys, but according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, it may be possible to manage your kidney disease with dietary changes such as:

How can I make my kidneys stronger again?

The National Kidney Foundation recommends the following to help keep your kidneys healthy:

• manage high blood pressure levels
• maintain ideal blood sugar levels
• avoid eating too much protein
• lower your salt intake
• avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), aspirin, and naproxen (Naprosyn)
• get your annual flu shot

What is the best drink for healthy kidneys?

Water is the best option as it flushes out the kidneys without adding stress due to toxins. Theres also growing evidence that drinking plain water may help prevent kidney disease.

Unsweetened cranberry juice is also a good option, as it contains antioxidants that may help protect the kidneys from infections. You might also try rice milk thats not enriched with potassium or phosphorus.

Limit or avoid alcohol, as this can increase your chances of developing several health problems.

What are 10 foods that are bad for the kidneys?

Foods to avoid if you have kidney disease are mainly those that are high in sodium, phosphorus, or both.

Here are some items to avoid or limit:

• processed foods or premade meals, which tend to have added sodium
• canned foods with added salt opt for salt-free or rinse them before using them
• large portions of protein foods, such as meat or dairy foods
• high fat items and any food thats not heart healthy
• alcohol
• packaged foods with labels that have PHOS on them (standing for phosphorus)
• deli meats
• bran cereals and oatmeal

Learn more about which foods to avoid if you have kidney disease.

People with kidney disease have to manage their intake of phosphorus, salt, and potassium. At certain stages, they may also need to limit their protein intake.

As nutritional needs and restrictions change during the course of the disease, its best to speak with a doctor before making any dietary changes. They will help you work out a diet suitable for you.

Suitable options may include chicken, shiitake mushrooms, cranberries, macadamia nuts, and a wide range of other tasty and nutritious foods.

LetsGetChecked

What foods protect the liver?

Some of the best foods and drinks for the liver include the following.

1. Coffee

A 2021 study analyzed data from 494,585 people in the United Kingdom to learn how different types of coffee might affect the risk of chronic liver disease, including decaffeinated, instant, and ground coffee.

The authors suggest that all types of coffee link to lower risks of chronic liver disease and its complications, though ground coffee had the largest effect among decaffeinated coffee types.

They suggest 34 cups daily offered the maximal protective effect and that the protective effect may occur due to more than one active ingredient.

Another study from 2021 associates coffee with lower liver stiffness. Regular, long-term coffee consumption may also have a protective effect on liver enzyme levels in people with and without liver disease and people with chronic alcohol consumption.

2. Oatmeal

Consuming oatmeal is an easy way to add fiber to the diet. Fiber is an important tool for digestion, and the specific fibers in oats may be especially helpful for the liver. Oats and oatmeal are high in compounds called beta-glucans.

As one 2017 study reports, beta-glucans are very biologically active in the body. They help modulate the immune system and fight inflammation, and may help reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity.

The review also notes that beta-glucans from oats may help reduce the amount of fat in the livers of mice, which could also help protect the liver. However, more clinical studies are necessary to confirm this benefit in humans.

People looking to add oats or oatmeal to their diet should look for whole oats or steel-cut oats rather than instant oatmeal. Instant oatmeal may contain fillers such as flour or sugars, which will not be as beneficial for the body.

3. Green tea

A 2020 research review highlights research that associates moderate green tea consumption with lower levels of two enzymes: alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Both enzymes may increase due to liver injury.

In rare cases, green tea extract may cause an increase in these enzymes or of acute liver injury. In these cases, stopping green tea extract consumption typically induced liver recovery.

A 2020 systematic review suggests that green tea effects may depend on the health status of the individual, offering moderate benefits to people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) but increasing liver enzymes in people without NAFLD.

4. Garlic

A 2020 randomized clinical trial found that 800 milligrams (mg) of garlic powder over 15 weeks significantly improved fat-build ups and comorbidity risk in people with NAFLD.

A 2019 population study of adults in China suggests that raw garlic consumption may also reduce the risk of liver cancer.

According to a systematic review from 2020, garlic supplementation may also lower AST levels but does not impact ALT levels. However, they highlight that more research is necessary to confirm this effect.

5. Berries

Many dark berries including blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries contain antioxidants called polyphenols, which may help protect the liver from damage.

Several animal studies have investigated the effect of berries on the liver. For example, a 2023 study suggests that blueberry and cranberry polyphenols reduced liver damage in rats.

A 2019 study suggests that blueberries reduced liver fibrosis in rats, lowering the rate of liver weight gain and liver enzyme activity.

A 2022 study also suggests that blueberries may help to manage age-related liver disease and dysfunction in rats.

However, further research is necessary to determine the effect of berry polyphenols on the liver in humans.

6. Grapes

A 2022 study suggests a compound in grape skin and seeds alleviates symptoms of severe liver problems in rats, including liver enlargement, inflammation, and fat buildups.

Eating whole, seeded grapes is a simple way to add these compounds to the diet. A grape seed extract supplement may also provide antioxidants.

7. Grapefruit

Grapefruit contains two primary antioxidants: naringin and naringenin. These may help protect the liver from injury by reducing inflammation and protecting the liver cells.

A 2019 study suggests that naringin may protect against alcohol-induced liver steatosis by reducing oxidative stress.

However, some medications can interact with grapefruit, so people should check with a doctor before adding grapefruit or grapefruit juice to their diet.

8. Prickly pear

The fruit and juice of the prickly pear may also be beneficial to liver health. A 2022 article suggests that prickly pear extracts show beneficial effects on the liver in animal studies.

However, more research is necessary to determine the bioactive compound that causes these effects, the most appropriate dose, and whether the effects apply to human models.

9. Plant foods in general

A 2023 review associates plant-based diets with a lower risk of NAFLD and liver fat content. Plant foods they group as healthful include:

• whole grains, such as whole meal bread, whole wheat couscous, and brown rice
• vegetables, including carrots, broccoli, and lettuce
• nuts
• legumes, including broad beans, peas, and green beans

People should eat these foods, if possible, as part of a whole and balanced diet.

10. Fatty fish

Consuming fatty fish and fish oil supplements may help reduce the impact of conditions such as NAFLD.

A 2021 population-based cohort study also associates regular fish oil supplementation with lower risks of liver cancer.

Fatty fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are the good fats that help reduce inflammation. These fats may be especially helpful in the liver, as they appear to prevent the buildup of excess fats and maintain enzyme levels in the liver.

11. Nuts

Eating nuts may be another simple way to keep the liver healthy and protect against NAFLD.

Nuts generally contain unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants. These compounds may help prevent NAFLD and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

12. Olive oil

Eating too much fat is not good for the liver, but some fats may help it. A 2019 study suggests olive oil, as part of the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce oxidative stress and improve liver function. This is due to the high content of unsaturated fatty acids in the oil.

However, the clinical data on olive oil benefits for people with NAFLD are currently scarce.