How the Mediterranean-Style Diet Can Help Protect Your Kidneys

A recent study published as an abstract and presented at the American Society of Nephrology conference demonstrated the impact of a Mediterranean style diet on kidney function. According to the investigators led by Minesh Khatri, MD, of Columbia University Medical Center, close adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet was associated with a reduced risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and slower rate of decline in kidney function. 

Current options for patients with kidney disease are limited but most doctors recommend modifying the diet in both its treatment and prevention. However, most experts focus on restricting protein intake, which has been shown to produce modest benefits in patients with kidney disease. 

Several studies have shown that a Mediterranean style diet has been linked with lower cholesterol levels, better blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and lower risk for heart disease.

More about the Mediterranean Diet

This diet features foods typically eaten in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It does not consist of a formal plan but instead, describes a way of eating.  It emphasizes eating high-fiber foods and those rich in monounsaturated fats as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Intake of meat, cheese, and sugary foods is limited. It also allows drinking red wine with a meal, which is limited to one to two glasses daily for men and one glass daily for women.

The Mediterranean-style diet is a heart-healthy diet that includes an average of 35-40% of calories coming from fat, mainly from unsaturated oils, nut/seed oils, and olive oil.

Benefits of Mediterranean Diet

Chronic kidney disease is known to be a common complication of certain diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. A Mediterranean-style diet helps lower your risk for these diseases since it can help control blood sugar levels, reduce blood cholesterol levels, limit salt intake, and moderate alcohol intake.

Aside from these benefits to the kidneys, eating a healthy, balanced diet patterned after Mediterranean diets can help improve mood, boost energy levels, and keep the brain healthy.

Read More: Try The Mediterranean Diet For A Healthy Life

• Instead of putting butter on your toast, dip bread in olive oil and herbs.
• Instead of ham or bacon, add some sliced avocado or tomatoes on your sandwhich.
• Eat grilled fish brushed with olive oil instead of red meat.
• Sprinkle salads with nuts or  seeds, not cheese.
• Use olive oil or canola oil for cooking instead of oils or butter, which are high in saturated fat.
• Avoid eating white bread or white rice. Instead, choose whole-grain products.
• Try adding ground flaxseed to your cereal, soups, and low-fat yogurt.
• Instead of whole milk or 2% skim milk, use fat-free milk.
• Eat whole fruits for dessert instead of pastries.
• Season foods with herbs and spices instead of salt.