Research reveals ever more links between inflammation and chronic disease. Inflammation is often caused by oxidative stress, or excessive oxidation of fat and cholesterol in the body. This creates molecules called ‘free radicals’ that can damage your organs, cells, and even genes. You can neutralize free radicals by eating foods high in antioxidants, protective compounds that can calm and reverse inflammation. Fortunately, many antioxidant-rich foods are on the renal diet. Here, a dietitian discusses some anti-inflammatory foods that are safe and healthy for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), even if you’re on dialysis.*

Great antioxidant, anti-inflammatory foods for CKD

Red bell peppers. Low in potassium, red bell peppers are also high in fiber, folic acid, and vitamins A, B6, and C. A ½ cup serving of red bell pepper makes a good snack, appetizer, or addition to omelets, salads, or meat, poultry, and fish dishes. 

Cabbage. Versatile and inexpensive, cabbage is packed with vitamins (C, K, folic acid) and is even lower in potassium than peppers. The phytochemicals in cabbage break down free radicals before they can cause damage. They also protect against heart disease (the primary cause of death in people with CKD) and certain cancers. 

Cauliflower. Just a ½ cup of boiled cauliflower is high in vitamin C, folate, fiber, and compounds that support liver function. It can be eaten raw, steamed, mashed, or as a substitute for rice or pasta. Its mild taste provides a blank slate for flavoring it with a wide range of herbs and spices.

Garlic. One garlic clove packs a lot of flavor while being low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. Garlic also has antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and fight plaque.

Onions. In addition to antioxidants, onions contain the mineral chromium, which supports fat, protein, and carbohydrate metabolism. A ½ cup of onion contains 116 mg of potassium, but only 3 mg of sodium and phosphorus.

Apples. A daily apple, with the skin on, not only fights inflammation but also helps prevent constipation. Apples contain no sodium and can be eaten in a multitude of ways. If eating applesauce, opt for a brand that contains just apples, with no additives.

Cherries and berries. Cherries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all chock-full of antioxidants. In addition to being anti-inflammatory, a ½ cup serving of any one of them can: 

• protect against bladder infections 
• promote gut health 
• slow bone loss 
• fight brain cell degeneration. 

Red grapes. Grapes with red or purple skin are high in resveratrol, that protects against oxidative stress, relaxes muscles, and improves blood flow. A ½ cup of grapes can be eaten by itself or added to chicken salad or other meals. 

Egg whites. Two egg whites provide protein and essential amino acids while keeping sodium, potassium, and phosphorus at manageable levels. Egg whites can be fresh, pasteurized, or powdered, and can be cooked and used as an entrée or added to salads, smoothies, or shakes.

Fish. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week. Herring, mackeral, rainbow trout, salmon, and white fish are particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Three ounces of fresh fish is best. Beware of salt and other preservatives in canned and processed fish products.

Olive oil. Olive oil contains anti-inflammatory oleic acid. Adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil to your salad or pasta, adding herbs and dipping bread in it, or cooking with it are easy ways to add taste and health support to your meals. Virgin and extra-virgin olive oils are higher in antioxidants.

These are general guidelines. Speak with your renal dietitian about optimal amounts of the foods above for your nutritional needs, stage of kidney disease, concurrent medical conditions, and overall health status. 

*DaVita Kidney Care. (N.D.). A DaVita Dietitian’s Top 15 Healthy Foods for People with Kidney Disease.

https://www.davita.com/diet-nutrition/articles/advice/top-15-healthy-foods-for-people-with-kidney-disease 

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