Individuals with kidney disease in general or kidney abscess in particular require a good diet. A proper nutritional regimen will help patients with kidney abscess to be healthier, support the treatment process, and promote the healing of kidney infections.
A kidney abscess is the phenomenon of pus formation around the kidney due to infection of the surrounding soft tissues or infection of the peripheral kidney tissue.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, a kidney-friendly eating plan includes foods that are good for the kidneys while limiting certain foods and fluids to prevent minerals in those foods (such as potassium) from accumulating to high levels in the patient’s body.
1. The Importance of Diet for Patients with Kidney Abscess
According to Dr. Đặng Đức Hảo, Deputy Head of the Nephrology and Hemodialysis Center at Bạch Mai Hospital, although most kidney infections are treated effectively and recover quickly, in a few cases they can lead to serious health problems, especially if left untreated.
In addition to treating the disease, diet also plays an important role in supporting treatment and preventing complications of kidney abscess. A suitable, healthy diet will aid in the recovery process and prevent complications.
Reduce the burden on the kidneys: The kidneys filter blood and remove waste from the body. When suffering from a kidney abscess, this function is impaired. A proper diet helps reduce the amount of waste the kidneys have to process, thereby reducing pressure on the kidneys.
Control infection: Kidney abscesses are often caused by infections. Certain foods can help boost the immune system, supporting the body in fighting infections.
Balance electrolytes: Patients with kidney abscesses often experience electrolyte imbalances such as sodium and potassium. A diet helps regulate electrolyte levels, preventing dangerous complications like cardiovascular issues.
Provide energy: Patients need adequate energy to maintain vital functions and recover their health.
Support treatment: A diet combined with medication will help patients recover more quickly.
2. Essential nutrients for patients with kidney abscesses
Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water can help eliminate bacteria from the body, aiding in faster infection clearance and cleaning the urinary system. Drinking plenty of water also helps prevent urinary infections, which are a risk factor for kidney infections, making it a good habit to maintain. Patients should aim to drink at least 8 cups of fluids (about 2.5 liters of water) each day.
Drinking probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial for patients undergoing treatment for kidney infections, helping to control healthy bacteria in the body. Additionally, there is evidence that probiotics help reduce antibiotic-related diarrhea in patients. Probiotics are found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, soybean tempeh, and miso seaweed soup…
Supplementing with vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect tissues in the body from oxidative stress, enhancing kidney health.
Vitamin C helps prevent kidney scarring during acute kidney infections and boosts enzymes in the kidneys. Vitamin C can be supplemented or consumed through foods rich in this nutrient found in vegetables and fruits…
3. Foods to eat and avoid when having a kidney abscess
3.1 Foods to eat
Miso seaweed soup: Miso is made by fermenting soybeans with salt and a type of fungus called koji. Miso can also be made by mixing soybeans with other ingredients, such as barley, rice, or rye. Miso is a good source of protein and fiber, containing many vitamins, minerals, plant compounds, vitamin K, manganese, and copper.
Cabbage: Contains high levels of vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin B. Cabbage is low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. At the same time, it provides insoluble fiber, which helps promote bowel movement.
Broccoli: It is a source of many nutrients, especially vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin B. Broccoli also contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as indoles and is an excellent source of fiber. Additionally, cauliflower can be used as a substitute for potatoes in low-potassium dishes.
Cranberries: This fruit is beneficial for both the urinary tract and kidneys. It contains phytonutrients known as type A proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from adhering to the mucous membranes of the urinary tract and bladder, preventing infections. This is very helpful for patients with kidney disease.
Red grapes: Red grapes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants known as flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation. This fruit is very kidney-friendly.
Chicken breast: It is a source of high-quality protein and low fat. Skinless chicken breast contains less phosphorus, potassium, and sodium than other parts of the chicken. It is advisable to choose fresh chicken and avoid pre-cooked chicken as those contain a large amount of sodium and phosphorus.
Egg whites: Egg yolks are very nutritious but contain a high level of phosphorus. Meanwhile, egg whites provide a source of high-quality protein that is kidney-friendly. This is also a great option for kidney patients undergoing dialysis who need a high protein intake but must limit phosphorus.
Onions: Help enhance the flavor of dishes instead of salt and contain no sodium. Onions provide vitamin C, manganese, B vitamins, including folate. They also contain prebiotic fibers that help keep the digestive system healthy, providing beneficial bacteria for the gut.
Garlic: A source of manganese, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and contains sulfur compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
3.2 Foods to Avoid
To ensure effective treatment, patients need to avoid certain types of foods:
- Foods high in sodium: Processed foods, fast foods such as cured meats, bacon, sausages, canned soups, canned fruits, potato chips, salty crackers, snack foods, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, and ready-to-eat foods (cereals, toast, etc.).
- Alcohol, coffee: The most important role of the kidneys is to filter harmful substances and toxins, and both alcohol and caffeine can cause the kidneys to work harder. This hinders the healing process of infections.
Diet plays an important role in the treatment of kidney abscesses; patients need to persist in following it to achieve the best results. During the treatment process, it is essential to follow the doctor’s guidance. Before changing the diet, patients should consult their doctor or a nutrition expert for the most suitable dietary plan.
