In the world of dieting to treat or maintain chronic illness, what you eat makes a big impact on your overall health and well being. Sure, there are plenty of foods that you shouldn’t eat and like any chronic illness, renal disease comes with a long list of restrictions. There are also foods that you absolutely should eat if you have renal disease, however. These “superfoods” are great for you and your kidneys and should be worked into your diet whenever possible.

•    Apples: High in fiber and anti-oxidants, apples are a delicious and easy kidney superfood to add to your diet. Apples even have some anti-inflammatory qualities, which could serve to make you more comfortable, not to mention their many other benefits.

•    Berries: Berries are considered a superfood on just about every list. They are one of the foods highest in anti-oxidants, fiber, and multiple vitamins. They are also super easy to snack on or add to just about any meal.

•    Onions: Raw or cooked, the multiple varieties of onion are not just good for adding great flavor to the foods you eat. They are also full of anti-oxidants, as well as minerals that aid with metabolism.

•    Garlic: Garlic is not only delicious in any of its many forms, but it also has healing properties. It is a great anti-inflammatory, as well as yet another high powered anti-oxidant.

•    Bell Peppers: Bell peppers, red to be specific, are delicious in just about any recipe you add them too, but they are also super useful. They make the list of renal superfoods because of their high vitamin content, fiber, and protective qualities.

•    Cabbage: High in vitamins and folic acid, but low in potassium, cabbage is a delicious addition to many meals. Cooked or raw, cabbage is a great kidney safe superfood.

•    Fish: Full of protein and omega-3, which are anti-inflammatory in nature, fish should be added to your diet weekly, if not more. Fish is great for cholesterol and has cancer fighting properties as well.

•    Kale: Another all-time superfood is kale. Like cabbage, this leafy green is full of vitamins and anti-oxidants. Kale is also power-packed with vitamins and minerals.

These are all great, not to mention delicious, foods to work into your renal disease diet as often as possible. These “superfoods” are tasty and can help you feel your very best. Of course, you should always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet and lifestyle. Your doctor knows you and your specific condition best and should be given the chance to okay your diet before you start any changes. For more information on a renal diet, click here.