Kidneys
The kidneys filter waste materials and extra water from the blood which are then eliminated from the body as urine. If the kidneys do not function properly, this waste builds up in the blood and will eventually poison the body. The kidneys also regulate levels of nutrients in the blood, filtering out any excess.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney disease. Many prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications can cause kidney damage when taken regularly over a long period of time. Eating excessive amounts of animal protein, sugar, sodium, vitamin C, or calcium can cause the development of kidney stones. Drinking adequate amounts of water is important for maintaining healthy kidneys and preventing kidney stones from forming.
Beneficial Foods
| Apples | Apples and apple juice help prevent kidney stones. Pasteurized commercial apple juice is less healthy than freshly juiced apples. |
| Bananas | Especially protective against kidney cancer in women. One study showed that eating 4-6 bananas per week can cut the risk of kidney cancer among women in half. |
| Burdock Root | Improves kidney function. |
| Cucumbers | Known as a kidney cleanser and diuretic. Help remove kidney and bladder stones. |
| Dandelion Greens | The leaves support kidney function and act as a diuretic. |
| Grapefruit | Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice prevents the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. |
| Radishes | Natural kidney cleansers. Improve elimination. Radish juice helps break down kidney stones. |
Beneficial Nutrients
| Magnesium | May prevent the formation of calcium oxalate crystals and kidney stones. |
| Phosphorous | Regulates kidney function and proper pH levels. |
| Potassium | Low levels of potassium can increase the risk of kidney stones. |
| Vitamin B6 | A deficiency can lead to higher amounts of oxalic acid in the urine, which in turn leads to the formation of kidney stones. |