NUTRITION AND WELLNESS
Following a balanced and nutritious diet is critical to protecting your renal and overall health. At Urology of Greater Atlanta, the team of expert urologists offers personalized nutrition and wellness counseling to optimize your health and reduce your risk of health issues ranging from urinary tract infections to cancer. Call Urology of Greater Atlanta today or schedule a wellness counseling session online.
Why is my diet important?
Your diet provides the fuel and nutrients your body needs to function. Unfortunately, the Standard American Diet is full of salt, sugar, fat, and unhealthy convenience foods. As a result, many Americans suffer from potentially avoidable health problems, including high blood pressure and diabetes, which can lead to kidney disease.
Your diet also helps control your weight, which is another significant factor in many health problems. The food you consume also keeps your hair and skin healthy while also nourishing the organs and tissues inside your body.
What are kidney and urinary tract friendly foods?
In general, your diet should consist of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and small amounts of lean protein and dairy. However, if you have kidney or urinary health problems, your doctor might recommend limiting potassium, phosphorus, and some fluids. For example, you might need to cut back on or eliminate:
- Avocados
- Bananas
- Melons
- Oranges
- Prunes
- Raisins
- Artichokes
- Winter squash
- Plantains
- Spinach
- Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Bran products
- Beans
- Brown and wild rice
It would be best if you also stayed away from sodas, sugary drinks, and caffeine.
Instead, try apples, cranberries, grapes, pineapples, strawberries, cauliflower, peppers, radishes, and summer squash. You can still eat pitas, tortillas, beef, and chicken.
If you have kidney disease, you might retain fluid if your kidneys don’t remove extra water from your blood. Your doctor can provide personalized advice on how much water to drink every day.
What are some of the signs that I need to change my diet?
Some of the signs of kidney and urinary problems that could benefit from dietary changes include:
- Dark and malodorous urine
- Brown, pink, or reddish urine
- Incontinence
- Urinary urgency and frequency
- Not releasing much fluid when you urinate
- Lower back, abdominal, or pelvic pain
You might also have low energy levels, feel bloated, or your skin and hair might look dull.
Many health issues cause similar symptoms, so make an appointment at Urology of Greater Atlanta if you notice any of these signs or other changes in your urinary habits. Call or make an appointment online today.
