Tuesday 23 August 2022

Some herbal bitters we approved are hazardous to Nigerians, NAFDAC warns. - Wednesday, August 24, 2022


The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has admitted to approving healthy herbal beverages harmful to consumers.

The food and drug agency highlighted the manufacturers of a herbal intoxicant, known as ‘Kurkura’ and alcoholic bitters in the country.

NAFDAC director-general Mojisola Adeyeye admitted the agency’s misstep at a press briefing held in Abuja on Friday. She maintained that the agency’s findings revealed high concentrations of tobacco and cannabis use in the products. 

“Kurkura is an illicit product illegally consumed for the sole aim of getting intoxicated. The substance when abused can be harmful to the body organs such as the brain, kidney, and liver. The damage to the kidney and liver cannot be overemphasised,” Ms Adeyeye said. “This substance can cause irrational thinking, and an altered state of mind, which if taken by a driver can lead to a road traffic accident with the attendant fatality consequences or can lead to criminal behaviours such as rape, kidnapping, and murder.”

She added that NAFDAC impounded dangerous herbal aphrodisiacs various shops in Zaria, Kaduna. These include ‘Gagare Man Power’, ‘Minister For Man Power’, ‘Almenjou For Lazy Men in Bed’, ‘Nisan Zango Karfin Maza’, ‘Shagalin Ka Man Power’, ‘Dakan Jia Man Power enhancement’, ‘Wuff Male Sexual Performance’ and ‘Afafata For Sexual Drive’. 

In her comments, Ms Adeyeye noted that several drugs were used to manufacture the products, despite the maker’s claim they were completely herbal. This includes ‘Hyergra 200’ (Sildenafil Citrate tablet), ‘Amafranil tablets’ (Clomipramine tablet 25mg)’, and ‘Cannon Extra’ (Paracetamol 500mg+Caffeine 30mg).  

“The owner admitted that he dissolves the Hyergra 200, Cannon Extra, and the Amafranil in a drum and mixes the content with boiled Kanafari, Garlic, Dundu, Marke, Hankufa, Sweetener, and Sodium Benzoate to make up the Man Power preparation,” Ms Adeyeye explained. 

An alcoholic bitters product Japata Alcoholic was named. NAFDAC said the product in circulation was laced with marijuana compared to the registered product that had only ethanol. 

“The alcoholic content was doubled compared with the registered product. The retained samples, kept at the point of registration, did not cause any injury to the animals,” Ms Adeyeye said. “The product laced with cannabis was said to cause altered state of mind and psychological problems to the user. The owner of the company is on the run and the matter has been shared with NDLEA.”

This is the second time the drug agency is raising concerns over Japata, an alcoholic drink produced by Chigodson International Company Ltd.

In May, the agency said its laboratory investigation showed that Japata Alcoholic Bitters was contaminated, unwholesome, and unfit for humans to consume. 

Ms Adeyeye promised that the agency would continue with the raid on other illegal production outlets and that the perpetrators will be dealt with in line with the extant laws and regulations.

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Effect Of Aqueous Extract Of Bitter Leaf (vernonia Amygdalina) On Phenyl-hydrazine Induced Kidney Damage In Albino Rat.

Introduction:-Vernoniaamygdalina (Asteraceae) known as the bitter leaf is commonly consumed in many parts of Africa as a leafy vegetable and is used in ethnomedicine to treat various illnesses. 

This study was undertaken to determine the effects of VernoniaAmygdalinaon Phenyl hydrazine-induced kidney damage in rats. 

Methodology:- Thirty (30) Albino rats were randomly divided into five groups of six rats each (n=6). 

Group 1 was normally controlled and the rats were fed with standard rat pellets diets and water. Groups 2-5 were the experimental group and the rats were treated with an equal dose of phenylhydrazine. 

Group 2 consist of phenylhydrazine-induced kidney damage; the rats were treated with phenylhydrazine only. 

Group 3 was administered 500 mg/kg of the extract simultaneously with phenylhydrazine. 

Groups 2-3 were sacrificed under chloroform vapour on the fourth day in other to ensure that the level of phenylhydrazine is enough to induce renal damage. 

Group 4 was post-treated with 400 mg/kg of the extract for 14 days. Group 5 was post-treated with 300 mg/kg of the extract for 28 days. 

Groups 4-5 were then euthanized under chloroform vapour and were sacrificed immediately after the respective final day of administration. The kidney was surgically removed, immediately blotted using filter paper to remove traces of blood, weighed with an analytical balance then fixed in 10% formal saline preparatory to histological processing. 

Results:-The experimental animals treated with phenylhydrazine only were observed to produce body weakness, loss of appetite, a decline in body weight, and respiratory distress. 

Conclusion:- The results suggest that Vernoniaamygdalina (bitter leaf) have a great level of renal recovery from phenylhydrazine-induced kidney damage. It has nephroprotective effects; it is, therefore, safe to consume so as to enhance renal functioning. Further research should be carried out in humans because the renal disease is a problem now globally.

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16 Amazing Health Benefits of Scent Leaves (Ocimum gratissimum) Pharmapproach

Botanical Name: Ocimum gratissimum

Preferred Common Name: African basil

International Common Names

  • English: clover basil; East Indian basil; shrubby basil; tree basil
  • Spanish: albahaca Africana; albahaca cimarrona; albahaca de limón
  • French: basilic sauvage; menthe gabonaise
  • Chinese: wu mao ding xiang luo le
  • Portuguese: alfavaca-de-caboclo; alfavacão

Local Common Names

  • Brazil: alfavaca brava
  • Cambodia: ling leak kranam
  • Cuba: albahaca de clavo; canela; clavo; clavo mondonguero; laurel cimarrón; orégano cimarrón
  • Dominican Republic: albahaca vaca; atiyayo
  • Haiti: basilic à petites fleurs; basilic grandes feuilles; folle basin; fombasin; gran basilique; grand basilique; grand fombasin
  • India: ajeka; doshakleshi; elumiccam tulaci; elumichanthulasi; kattuthrithavu; mali-thulasi; perumthulasi; ram tulsi
  • Indonesia: kemangi hutan; ruku-ruku rimba; selaseh mekah
  • Jamaica: African tea bush
  • Lesser Antilles: basilic; frond bazin; mint
  • Malaysia: ruku-ruku hitam; selaseh besar
  • Netherlands Antilles: anis; yerba di hole blanku
  • Nigeria: nchuanwu/ Ahuji (Igbo); efirin (Yoruba); daidoya (Hausa)
  • Panama: origanum de castilla
  • Thailand: horapha-chang; kaphrao-chang; yira
  • Vietnam: é lá lớn; hương nhu trắng

The Scent leaf, botanically known as Ocimum gratissimum, is an aromatic herb that has been introduced extensively across tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is native to Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroun, Madagascar, Southern Asia, and the Bismarck Archipelago. It has been naturalized in countries such as Polynesia, Hawaii, Brazil, Panama, the West Indies, and Mexico. The plant is normally a perennial homegrown shrub, although it can be found in the wild, and is used mainly as a spice for cooking delicacies due to its aromatic taste.

Now, it is easy to dismiss this plant as just another sweet-smelling plant but it is more than just that. The plant boasts a lot of antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal, and antipyretic activities that give it a prominent role in the treatment and prevention of diseases and infections. Scent Leaves contain vital bioactive substances which confer it with the above-mentioned activities including; tannins, phenols, calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, and more, all of which are essential for human health.


For a better appreciation of the uniqueness of this plant, its amazing benefits are here outlined;

1. Maintenance of the eyes

Scent leaf is rich in Vitamin A, which promotes good eyesight. Vitamin A is needed by the retina of the eyes in the form of retinal which combines with protein opsin to form rhodopsin, the light-absorbing molecule which is ultimately necessary for both scotopic vision (low-light) and color vision.

The deficiency of vitamin A can be terrible for the eyes leading to xerophthalmia (a medical condition in which the eye fails to produce tears) and night blindness both of which are preventable when adequate amounts of scent leaves are consumed.

Excess intake of vitamin A and by extension, the scent leaves, by pregnant women can lead to birth defects and is not recommended. Also, Information regarding safety and efficacy in lactation is lacking.

2. Improves heart function

Scent leaves contain calcium and magnesium, both of which help to reduce bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and increase blood circulation. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterols increase the risk of Coronary Artery Disease in adults and so the intake of scent leaves can reduce this ever-present risk.

Heart and artery problems resulting from the clogging of arteries are nearly preventable if adequate amounts of scent leaves are consumed.

Read Also: 10 Foods and Drinks to Avoid If You Have Hypertension

3. Aids digestion

Scent leaves can help relieve bloating and also help digest meals on time. Brewed scent leaves can have a calming effect on the stomach and help with bowel evacuation. Drinking scent leaves tea also relieves heartburn.

4. Lowers blood sugar

Scent leaves have an unprecedented ability to lower blood sugar and protect the pancreatic islets that produce insulin from damage. A research study conducted on mice showed that scent leaves were efficacious in lowering blood sugar levels.

Another randomized study equally showed a decrease in blood sugar levels in Non-Insulin Dependent (NID) Diabetes Mellitus patients after eating significant amounts of scent leaves.

5. Insect and mosquito repellent

Scent leaves contain compounds like camphor, cineole, and limonene which are larvicidal and so are harmful to mosquitoes or insects. The leaves can be potted and left in residential quarters to serve as a repellent for houseflies, mosquitoes, and other insects.

This has a double role given that by reducing the population of mosquitoes and houseflies in residences, the incidences of malaria and enteric diseases (caused by houseflies) are both reduced.

6. Treatment of fungal infections

Studies have shown scent leaves to have antifungal activity against Penicillium chrysogenum (also known as Penicillium notatum), Candida albicans, and Microsporeum gyseum. Chloroform extracts from the leaves showed great antifungal activity against the fungal species mentioned. Thus, scent leaves when crushed and smeared on skin infections, help in its treatment.

7. Treatment of Diarrhea

Ethanol and hot water (100oC) extracts of scent leaves have been extensively demonstrated to be effective against some pathogenic bacteria known to cause diarrhea including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Shigella sp. and Salmonella sp. It is thus conceivable that scent leaves can be brewed as tea to treat cases of diarrhea caused by the above organisms.

Also, the use of scent leaves in the control of diarrhea can be attributed to the relaxant action of the essential oil of O. gratissimum which is likely to be due to a direct effect on the smooth muscle of the ileum rather than an indirect action on neurotransmitter release.

8. Anti-Inflammatory properties

Scent leaves have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties akin to drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen but are kinder to the inner linings of the stomach. Decoction made from leaves of O. gratissimum is useful for healing menstrual pain, stomach ache, earache, and fever.

9. Treatment of respiratory disorders

Aqueous extracts of scent leaves have demonstrated effects on markers of inflammation, including interleukins, protein kinases, and leukocytes/eosinophils in models of respiratory allergy (in vitro experiments evaluating effects on airway epithelial cells, in vivo studies in rodents) and thus can be used in managing respiratory problems.

The leaves are rubbed between the palms and sniffed as a treatment for blocked nostrils.


10. Promotes oral hygiene

The stem of scent leaf when used as chewing stick kills bacteria in the mouth and help fight off bad breath. It is also able to prevent tooth decay. Tea made from the leaves of scent leaf can be taken as a tonic or used as a gargle to treat sore throat.

11. Antimutagenic properties

Edible plants with antimutagenic activity and chemopreventive potential have been documented from several plant groups. Investigations have shown that organic solvent extracts of scent leaves have antimutagenic effects against reverse mutation induced by ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), 4-nitrophenylenediamine, and 2-aminofluorine.

12. Wound healing activity

Scent leaf is widely used in the dressing of neonatal umbilical cord and wounds as it is believed to keep the baby’s umbilical cord and wound surfaces sterile. The wound healing effects of scent leaf may be attributed to its ability to increase vascular permeability.

Formulations of the leaf essential oil of O. gratissimum (Ocimum oil) have been incorporated in a variety of bases as topical antiseptics and for use in the treatment of boils and pimples.

Read Also: 6 Striking Things Every Cancer Patient Had In Common

13. Promotes normal hair growth

Hair loss is one of the most feared side effects of cancer chemotherapy. Investigations by Orafidiya et al., showed the efficacy of the leaf essential oil of scent leaves (Ocimum oil) in promoting hair growth and follicular proliferation in cyclophosphamide-induced hair loss.

14. Reproductive health

Scent leaf is a good source of arginine, an amino acid that helps in the maintenance of optimum penile health and sperm vitality. It also contains compounds such as epigenin fenkhona and eugenol which can facilitate erection.

In addition, the anetol and boron in the leaves are capable of inducing estrogen in women while the same eugenol effective in men helps to kill fungus that has been implicated in vaginal discharge.

15. Food preservatives

Scent leaves have been reported to have antimicrobial properties. The fact that its extracts are plant-based implies that the ethanol extract can be used as a potent food preservative to keep away bacteria and fungi that may otherwise cause food spoilage. This presents a cheaper and possibly healthier alternative to the more popular preservatives.

16. Source of aromatics and Oils

The oil extracts obtainable from scent leaves have a wide spectrum of usage. The essential oils can be used for aromatherapy massage as the oils can relieve and refresh the body. The oils can equally be used in the manufacture of soaps, perfumes, ointments, and aromatherapy oils.

There are so many other unconfirmed uses of this powerful plant including; reduction of nicotine levels, ceremonial washing of corpses (in Indonesia) etc. One thing that is clear is that the plant is more than meets the nose and must be better researched and utilized before its beauty in its entirety can be duly appreciated.

References

  • Agholor K., Yaki L., Abubakar I., Olusola L., and Zubairu R. (2018). Antibacterial activity of Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaf) on some pathogenic gastrointestinal bacteria. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 12(40); 923-929.
  • Amengialue, O., Edobor, O., and Egharevba, A. Antibacterial Activity of Extracts of Ocimum gratissimumon Bacteria Associated with Diarrhoea. Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences, 6(2): 143 – 145.
  • Duester, G. (2008). Retinoic acid synthesis and signaling during early organogenesis. Cell, 134 (6): 921-31.
  • https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/115839
  • Jiao, Z., Li, L., Zhao, Z., Liu, D., Lin, B., and Li, H. (2013). Aqueous extracts of Ocimum grasstimuminhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 expression in airway epithelial cell BEAS-2B. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, 19(10):741-748.
  • Nakamura C., Nakamura T., Bando E., Melo A., Cortez D., and Filho B (1999). Antibacterial activities of Ocimum gratissimum L essential oil. Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, 94:675–678.
  • Orafidiya, L., Agbani, E., Adelusola, K., Iwalewa, E., Adebanji, O., Adediran, E., and Agbani, N. (2004). A study on the effect of the essential oil of Ocimun gratissimum Linn. on cyclophosphamide-induced inhibited hair growth in pulp rats. The International Journal of  Aromatherapy, 14: 119-28.
  • Prabhu, K., Lobo, R., Shirwaikar, A., and  Shirwaikar, A. (2009). Ocimum gratissimum: A Review of its Chemical, Pharmacological and Ethnomedicinal Properties. The Open Complementary Medicine Journal, 1, 1-15.
  • Silva M., Oliveira J., Fernades O., Passos S., Costa C., Souza L., Lemos J., and Paula J. (2005). Antifungal activities of Ocimum gratisimum towards dermatophytes. Journal of  Ethnopharmacology, 48:72–86.
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20 Best Foods for People with Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a common problem affecting about 10% of the world’s population (1).

The kidneys are small but powerful bean-shaped organs that perform many important functions.

They are responsible for filtering waste products, releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure, balancing fluids in the body, producing urine, and many other essential tasks (2Trusted Source).

There are various ways in which these vital organs can become damaged.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common risk factors for kidney disease. However, obesity, smoking, genetics, gender, and age can also increase the risk (3Trusted Source).

Uncontrolled blood sugar and high blood pressure cause damage to blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to function optimally (4Trusted Source).

When the kidneys aren’t working properly, waste builds up in the blood, including waste products from food (5Trusted Source).

Therefore, it’s necessary for people with kidney disease to follow a special diet.


Dietary restrictions vary depending on the level of kidney damage.

For example, people in the early stages of kidney disease have different restrictions than those with kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).

If you have kidney disease, your health care provider will determine the best diet for your needs.

For most people with advanced kidney disease, it’s important to follow a kidney-friendly diet that helps decrease the amount of waste in the blood.

This diet is often referred to as a renal diet.

It helps boost kidney function while preventing further damage (8Trusted Source).

While dietary restrictions vary, it’s commonly recommended that all people with kidney disease restrict the following nutrients:

  • Sodium. Sodium is found in many foods
    and a major component of table salt. Damaged kidneys can’t filter out
    excess sodium, causing its blood levels to rise. It’s often recommended to
    limit sodium to less than 2,000 mg per day (9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source).
  • Potassium. Potassium plays many critical
    roles in the body, but those with kidney disease need to limit potassium
    to avoid dangerously high blood levels. It’s usually recommended to limit
    potassium to less than 2,000 mg per day (11Trusted Source, 12).
  • Phosphorus. Damaged kidneys can’t
    remove excess phosphorus, a mineral in many foods. High levels can cause
    damage to the body, so dietary phosphorus is restricted to less than
    800–1,000 mg per day in most patients (13, 14Trusted Source).

Protein is another nutrient that people with kidney disease may need to limit, as damaged kidneys can’t clear out waste products from protein metabolism.

However, those with end-stage renal disease undergoing dialysis, a treatment that filters and cleans the blood, have greater protein needs (15Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source).

Each person with kidney disease is different, which is why it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your individual dietary needs.

Luckily, many delicious and healthy options are low in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium.

Here are 20 of the best foods for people with kidney disease.

Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable that’s a good source of many nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and the B vitamin folate.

It’s also full of anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles and is an excellent source of fiber (17Trusted Source).

Plus, mashed cauliflower can be used in place of potatoes for a low potassium side dish.

One cup (124 grams) of cooked cauliflower contains (18Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 19 mg
  • potassium: 176 mg
  • phosphorus: 40 mg

Blueberries are packed with nutrients and one of the best sources of antioxidants you can eat (19Trusted Source).

In particular, these sweet berries contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which may protect against heart disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline, and diabetes (20).

They also make a fantastic addition to a kidney-friendly diet, as they are low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium.

One cup (148 grams) of fresh blueberries contains (21Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 1.5 mg
  • potassium: 114 mg
  • phosphorus: 18 mg

Sea bass is a high quality protein that contains incredibly healthy fats called omega-3s.

Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and may help decrease the risk of cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety (22Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source).

While all fish are high in phosphorus, sea bass contains lower amounts than other seafood.

However, it’s important to consume small portions to keep your phosphorus levels in check.

Three ounces (85 grams) of cooked sea bass contain (25Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 74 mg
  • potassium: 279 mg
  • phosphorus: 211 mg

Red grapes are not only delicious but also deliver a ton of nutrition in a small package.

They’re high in vitamin C and contain antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation (26Trusted Source).

Additionally, red grapes are high in resveratrol, a type of flavonoid that has been shown to benefit heart health and protect against diabetes and cognitive decline (27Trusted Source, 28Trusted Source).

These sweet fruits are kidney-friendly, with a half cup (75 grams) containing (29Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 1.5 mg
  • potassium: 144 mg
  • phosphorus: 15 mg

Although egg yolks are very nutritious, they contain high amounts of phosphorus, making egg whites a better choice for people following a renal diet.

Egg whites provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein.

Plus, they’re an excellent choice for people undergoing dialysis treatment, who have higher protein needs but need to limit phosphorus.

Two large egg whites (66 grams) contain (30Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 110 mg
  • potassium: 108 mg
  • phosphorus: 10 mg

People with kidney problems are advised to limit the amount of sodium in their diet, including added salt.

Garlic provides a delicious alternative to salt, adding flavor to dishes while providing nutritional benefits.

It’s a good source of manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 and contains sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.

Three cloves (9 grams) of garlic contain (31Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 1.5 mg
  • potassium: 36 mg
  • phosphorus: 14 mg

Many whole grains tend to be high in phosphorus, but buckwheat is a healthy exception.

Buckwheat is highly nutritious, providing a good amount of B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber.

It’s also a gluten-free grain, making buckwheat a good choice for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

A half cup (84 grams) of cooked buckwheat contains (32Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 3.5 mg
  • potassium: 74 mg
  • phosphorus: 59 mg

Olive oil is a healthy source of fat and phosphorus-free, making it a great option for people with kidney disease.

Frequently, people with advanced kidney disease have trouble keeping weight on, making healthy, high calorie foods like olive oil important.

The majority of fat in olive oil is a monounsaturated fat called oleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties (34Trusted Source).

What’s more, monounsaturated fats are stable at high temperatures, making olive oil a healthy choice for cooking.

One tablespoon (13.5 grams) of olive oil contains (35Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 0.3 mg
  • potassium: 0.1 mg
  • phosphorus: 0 mg

Bulgur is a whole grain wheat product that makes a terrific, kidney-friendly alternative to other whole grains that are high in phosphorus and potassium.

This nutritious grain is a good source of B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and manganese.

It’s also an excellent source of plant-based protein and full of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.

A half-cup (91-gram) serving of bulgur contains (36Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 4.5 mg
  • potassium: 62 mg
  • phosphorus: 36 mg

Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and powerful plant compounds.

It’s a great source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and many B vitamins.

Furthermore, it provides insoluble fiber, a type of fiber that keeps your digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements and adding bulk to stool (37Trusted Source).

Plus, it’s low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium, with one cup (70 grams) of shredded cabbage containing (38Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 13 mg
  • potassium: 119 mg
  • phosphorus: 18 mg

Although a limited protein intake is necessary for some people with kidney issues, providing the body with an adequate amount of high quality protein is vital for health.

Skinless chicken breast contains less phosphorus, potassium, and sodium than skin-on chicken.

When shopping for chicken, choose fresh chicken and avoid pre-made roasted chicken, as it contains large amounts of sodium and phosphorus.

Three ounces (84 grams) of skinless chicken breast contains (39Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 63 mg
  • potassium: 216 mg
  • phosphorus: 192 mg

Bell peppers contain an impressive amount of nutrients but are low in potassium, unlike many other vegetables.

These brightly colored peppers are loaded with the powerful antioxidant vitamin C.

In fact, one small red bell pepper (74 grams) contains 105% of the recommended intake of vitamin C.

They are also loaded with vitamin A, an important nutrient for immune function, which is often compromised in people with kidney disease (40).

One small red pepper (74 grams) contains (41Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 3 mg
  • potassium: 156 mg
  • phosphorus: 19 mg

Onions are excellent for providing sodium-free flavor to renal-diet dishes.

Reducing salt intake can be challenging, making finding flavorful salt alternatives a must.

Sautéing onions with garlic and olive oil adds flavor to dishes without compromising your kidney health.

What’s more, onions are high in vitamin C, manganese, and B vitamins and contain prebiotic fibers that help keep your digestive system healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria (42Trusted Source).

One small onion (70 grams) contains (43Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 3 mg
  • potassium: 102 mg
  • phosphorus: 20 mg

Many healthy greens like spinach and kale are high in potassium and difficult to fit into a renal diet.

However, arugula is a nutrient-dense green that is low in potassium, making it a good choice for kidney-friendly salads and side dishes.

Arugula is a good source of vitamin K and the minerals manganese and calcium, all of which are important for bone health.

This nutritious green also contains nitrates, which have been shown to lower blood pressure, an important benefit for those with kidney disease (44Trusted Source).

One cup (20 grams) of raw arugula contains (45Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 6 mg
  • potassium: 74 mg
  • phosphorus: 10 mg

Most nuts are high in phosphorus and not recommended for those following a renal diet.

However, macadamia nuts are a delicious option for people with kidney problems. They are much lower in phosphorus than popular nuts like peanuts and almonds.

They are also packed with healthy fats, B vitamins, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese.

One ounce (28 grams) of macadamia nuts contains (46Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 1.4 mg
  • potassium: 103 mg
  • phosphorus: 53 mg

Radishes are crunchy vegetables that make a healthy addition to a renal diet.

This is because they are very low in potassium and phosphorus but high in many other important nutrients.

Radishes are a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that has been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease and cataracts (47Trusted Source, 48Trusted Source).

Additionally, their peppery taste makes a flavorful addition to low sodium dishes.

A half cup (58 grams) of sliced radishes contains (49Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 23 mg
  • potassium: 135 mg
  • phosphorus: 12 mg

Turnips are kidney-friendly and make an excellent replacement for vegetables that are higher in potassium like potatoes and winter squash.

These root vegetables are loaded with fiber and vitamin C. They are also a decent source of vitamin B6 and manganese.

They can be roasted or boiled and mashed for a healthy side dish that works well for a renal diet.

A half cup (78 grams) of cooked turnips contains (50Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 12.5 mg
  • potassium: 138 mg
  • phosphorus: 20 mg

Many tropical fruits like oranges, bananas, and kiwis are very high in potassium.

Fortunately, pineapple makes a sweet, low potassium alternative for those with kidneys problems.

Plus, pineapple is rich in fiber, manganese, vitamin C, and bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation (51Trusted Source).

One cup (165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains (52Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 2 mg
  • potassium: 180 mg
  • phosphorus: 13 mg

Cranberries benefit both the urinary tract and kidneys.

These tiny, tart fruits contain phytonutrients called A-type proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract and bladder, thus preventing infection (53, 54Trusted Source).

This is helpful for those with kidney disease, as they have an increased risk of urinary tract infections (55).

Cranberries can be eaten dried, cooked, fresh, or as a juice. They are very low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium.

One cup (100 grams) of fresh cranberries contains (56Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 2 mg
  • potassium: 80 mg
  • phosphorus: 11 mg

Shiitake mushrooms are a savory ingredient that can be used as a plant-based meat substitute for those on a renal diet who need to limit protein.

They are an excellent source of B vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium.

In addition, they provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.

Shiitake mushrooms are lower in potassium than portobello and white button mushrooms, making them a smart choice for those following a renal diet (57Trusted Source, 58Trusted Source).

One cup (145 grams) of cooked shiitake mushroom contains (59Trusted Source):

  • sodium: 6 mg
  • potassium: 170 mg
  • phosphorus: 42 mg



The kidney-friendly foods above are excellent choices for people following a renal diet.

Remember to always discuss your food choices with your healthcare provider to ensure that you are following the best diet for your individual needs.

Dietary restrictions vary depending on the type and level of kidney damage, as well as the medical interventions in place, such as medications or dialysis treatment.

While following a renal diet can feel restrictive at times, there are plenty of delicious foods that fit into a healthy, well-balanced, kidney-friendly meal plan.


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