For healthy people, drinking low-fat cow's milk can have a protective effect on your kidneys. It can reduce your risk of chronic kidney disease and getting painful stones. However, for those diagnosed with kidney disease, the high calcium, phosphorus, and potassium levels in cow's milk can cause issues.
Choose soy, almond, cashew, or rice milk for less phosphorus and less potassium than cow's milk. Avoid cow's milk substitutes that are "Enriched" or have the word phosphorus or "phos" in the ingredient list. For a change, try hot cereal like oatmeal, cream of wheat, cream of rice, or Malto-meal.
Some believe that drinking milk can increase the risk of kidney stones. However, it's a mere myth and has no scientific basis. It is believed that calcium in the milk can accumulate and result in stone formation in the kidneys. However, the fact is that milk can actually protect the kidneys.
Most dairy foods are very high in phosphorus. People with kidney disease should limit their daily intake of milk, yogurt, and cheese to ½ cup milk, or ½ cup yogurt or 1-ounce cheese.
Individuals with kidney disease should limit their intake of yogurt because it is high in potassium and phosphorus. Yogurt is high in protein, a nutrient that dialysis patients require. It's also high in calcium and vitamin D.
Healthy options for kidney disease are protein, egg whites, fish, unsaturated fats, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, apple juice, grape and cranberry juice, light colored soda. The amount of protein intake per day varies depending on the stage of kidney disease.
Water: Water is simply the best drink you can have! Water is a zero-calorie, perfectly hydrating, cheap drink. If you are in the earlier stages of kidney disease, choosing water most of the time to quench your thirst will keep your body and kidneys functioning well.
The biggest issue with milk and chronic kidney disease is that animal milk, especially cow's milk, is high in potassium and phosphorus. Consuming high levels of these minerals can put a strain on your kidneys. Some plant-based milks are also high in both of these.
Beta-Carotene Benefits
Beta-carotene, the water-soluble form of vitamin A in carrots, helps the kidneys filter toxins out of the blood and prevent urinary tract infections, according to Dr. George D.
When your kidneys are failing, a high concentration and accumulation of substances lead to brown, red, or purple urine. Studies suggest the urine color is due to abnormal protein or sugar as well as high numbers of cellular casts and red and white blood cells.
Around 80% of kidney stones that are smaller than 4 millimeters (mm) will pass on their own in about 31 days. Approximately 60% of kidney stones that are 4–6 mm will pass on their own in about 45 days. Around 20% of kidney stones that are larger than 6 mm will pass on their own in about 12 months.
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Eat a well-balanced diet every day. That's five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables, along with fiber from vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Be sure to include protein for the enzymes that help your body detox naturally.
The Worst Foods for Your Kidneys
Bananas: Like avocados, bananas are high in potassium — in fact, they're famous for their potassium content. Though bananas are low in sodium, it is still best to avoid making them a daily staple if you're concerned about kidney health.
Milk, yogurt, and cheese can be part of a healthy kidney diet. Shop for natural cheeses, avoiding items labeled “cheese food” or “cheese product.” Greek yogurt and cottage cheese can be easy and tasty snacks, and, in most cases, milk servings should be 1 cup per day.
Diets high in salt are high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and, in turn, harm your kidneys. Flavor your foods with herbs and spices instead of salt. Over time, you may find it easier to avoid using added salt (sodium) on your food.