The Nephrologist Reveals the Foods You Should Avoid

Kidneys in Danger: Nephrologist Reveals the Foods You Should Avoid

Diet, key to kidney health: Dr. Quiroga warns about ultra-processed foods and proposes five basic principles.

In the whirlwind of modern life, where speed often takes precedence over quality, fundamental aspects of our well-being are relegated to oblivion. While we pay almost obsessive attention to digestive functioning or aesthetics, the health of our kidneys, those silent guardians of our body, often goes unnoticed. However, its role is crucial to feeling full and vital.

Although many kidney conditions are elusive in their early stages, denying the patient the opportunity for early intervention, science and medicine offer us clear guidelines to keep these organs in optimal condition. Nature, in its generosity, provides us with allies such as cauliflower, peppers and zucchini, vegetables that nourish and protect. White rice, healthy fats and fruits such as apples, pears or grapes add to this list of kidney protectors, forming a solid nutritional base.

However, the other side of the coin presents an alarming picture. There are foods that, far from contributing, erode our health, and the renowned nephrologist Borja Quiroga wanted to warn about them in a recent and illuminating intervention for 'Mundo Deportivo'. His message was forceful and radical.

Dr. Quiroga did not mince words when expressing his total rejection of ultra-processed foods. “I have eliminated them from my diet. They are toxic and should be banned,” he said, lamenting that “this message is not reaching the population.” Their call is for a frontal fight against these products, loaded with additives and responsible, in their words, for “precocious aging.”

These “silent enemies” of our kidneys usually hide alarming levels of sodium in their composition, an accomplice to fluid retention and the consequent increase in blood pressure. Worse still, some disguise themselves as quality protein sources when their nutritional value is questionable, while others hide huge amounts of added sugars, opening the door to a range of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity.

Given this panorama, Dr. Quiroga outlined the five basic principles which, especially for middle-aged people, stand as pillars for enviable kidney health. These principles are not mere recommendations, but a comprehensive action plan.

Physical exercise, something forgotten in many routines, emerges as an essential component. Not only does it prevent a myriad of pathologies, but it is also a balm for mental health. Strength training, in particular, has been noted by numerous experts as a pillar of longevity. “In consultations we recommend strength exercise because it activates hormones called myokines and that have beneficial effects on organs such as the heart, kidneys or brain,” said Dr. Quiroga, highlighting its systemic impact.

Adequate hydration, a gesture as simple as it is vital, is essential so that the kidneys can carry out their filtering work efficiently. Drinking the recommended amount of water throughout the day helps dilute waste substances and prevent the formation of kidney stones.

A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and low in saturated fats and refined sugars, is the protective armor for our kidneys. Prioritizing fresh, natural foods over processed foods is a direct investment in our long-term health.

Controlling blood pressure and blood glucose are two fronts that we cannot neglect. Hypertension and diabetes are two of the main causes of chronic kidney disease, so regular medical follow-up and the adoption of healthy habits are essential to keep these conditions at bay.

Finally, moderation in salt consumption and avoidance of certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without medical supervision, complete Quiroga's decalogue for healthy kidneys and a full life.

These tips, simple in their formulation but profound in their impact, invite us to reflect on our daily choices and take charge of our health. Taking care of our kidneys is taking care of our life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kidney Health

What are ultra-processed foods and why are they harmful?

Ultra-processed foods are industrial products made with ingredients that often include additives, preservatives and added sugars. They are harmful because their high content of sodium, unhealthy fats and sugars can contribute to fluid retention, increased blood pressure, the development of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, in addition to accelerating aging.

What are the most recommended vegetables for kidney health?

Vegetables such as cauliflower, peppers and zucchini are especially suitable for maintaining healthy kidneys due to their low potassium and phosphorus content, and their richness in vitamins and fiber.

What type of exercise does Dr. Quiroga recommend for kidney health?

Dr. Quiroga especially recommends strength exercise, as it activates the release of myokines, hormones with beneficial effects on vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and brain.

How can physical exercise improve kidney health?

Regular physical exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure and blood glucose, key factors in preventing kidney diseases. Furthermore, the release of myokines during resistance exercise has a direct and positive impact on kidney function.

What role does hydration play in kidney health?

Adequate hydration is essential so that the kidneys can effectively filter and eliminate waste products from the body. Helps prevent the concentration of salts and minerals, reducing the risk of kidney stone formation.

Is salt harmful to the kidneys?

Yes, excessive salt consumption can raise blood pressure, which in the long term can damage the kidneys. Therefore, it is recommended to moderate its intake.

Are there foods that should be avoided completely if you have kidney problems?

In addition to ultra-processed foods, people with specific kidney problems should consult their doctor or nutritionist about foods rich in potassium and phosphorus, such as certain nuts, dairy products or processed meats, which may need to be limited.

What are myokines and why are they important?

Myokines are proteins secreted by muscles during physical activity, especially resistance exercise. They have pleiotropic effects, that is, they benefit multiple organs, including the heart, kidneys and brain, acting as cellular messengers that promote health and regeneration.

Is regular medical monitoring necessary for kidney health?

Yes, especially after a certain age or if there are risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension or family history. A regular medical check-up makes it possible to detect possible kidney problems in time and take preventive measures.

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