Kidneys are critical organs of our body. They release waste products through urine, ensure healthy levels of calcium and minerals, and keep blood pressure stable. In case of problems where the kidneys are unable to dispel waste, toxins accumulate in the blood, which can be damaging and even lead to kidney failure. Here is a list of vitamins for kidneys that ensure kidney health and proper functioning.

• Vitamin B12
  This key water-soluble vitamin for kidneys, also known as cobalamin, is primarily known for its importance in maintaining nerve cells and creation of red blood cells. Low levels of this vitamin can cause permanent nerve damage.

It helps the kidneys recover from damage by free radicals and carries oxygen and nutrients to kidneys. It also helps in the recovery process for kidneys and ensures protection from anemia, which is commonly seen in the event of kidney damage. Scientists recommend that adults should consume 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 daily to ensure healthy kidney function. Some foods that are rich in vitamin B12 are eggs, beef liver, corned beef, duck, and canned oils.

Vitamin C
This water-soluble vitamin helps to repair kidneys, make them function better, and lowers protein levels in the urine, which is often found in kidney disease.

This vitamin for kidneys protects them from damage caused by free radicals formed due to food and exposure to the environment. It also speeds up the healing process and aids in iron absorption. This leads to healthy red blood cell formation, which is necessary for oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach the kidneys. Vitamin C is a critical vitamin for kidneys as it has an important role in dissolving kidney stones. It acidifies the urine, dissolving calcium phosphate stones and ensuring that they do not form. The recommended daily allowance for adults is 1,000 mg. Some foods that have high quantities of vitamin C are oranges, spinach, tomatoes, guava, and strawberries.

Vitamin D
This fat-soluble vitamin for kidneys helps to maintain required levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. It helps in absorbing calcium, which leads to strong bones. Low levels of calcium can also lead to kidney stones and cause problems in the kidney functions. Low levels of vitamin D in diseased kidneys can cause excess secretion of the parathyroid hormone. This can extract calcium from the bones and lead to weak bones and pain. However, excess levels of calcium can lead to permanent deposits or calcifications. These can cause serious problems depending on where they are located. If the heart gets calcified, then blood flow can be reduced and can cause a heart attack. This vitamin for kidneys also helps to improve kidney function and contributes in the elimination of waste products from the body. The recommended daily dosage for adults is 15 mcg to improve kidney health. Foods that have high quantities of vitamin D are eggs, milk, fortified cereals, salmon, and beef liver. …

Vitamin E
This fat-soluble vitamin helps to protect kidneys from free radicals that can be very harmful and damage kidney function. It also helps transport oxygen, nutrients and blood to kidneys, repairs tissues damaged due to infections or diseases caused to the kidneys, and reduces kidney inflammation. In high doses, this vitamin for kidneys also performs the important function of reducing blood pressure, especially in patients with kidney disease. The recommended daily dosage is 15 mg to improve kidney function. Some foods that are rich in vitamin E are almonds, spinach, sweet potato, and sunflower seeds.

Vitamin B6
There is some evidence to indicate that consumption of this water-soluble vitamin for kidneys lowers the risk of developing kidney stones. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, women whose daily consumption is more than 40 mg of vitamin B6 have a reduced possibility of having kidney stones. However, this relationship requires further investigation. Foods that have high quantities of vitamin B6 are fish, beef liver, starchy vegetables such as potatoes, and non-citrus fruits.

Various vitamins for kidneys combine to ensure that they receive adequate nutrition, waste products are flushed out and repair work is carried out. A healthy, balanced diet that includes several different food products is required so that the daily requirements for various vitamins can be met. This would ensure long-term health for the kidneys and the body. The body is a complex organism where the kidneys play the critical role of waste management and removal of fluid. In case of kidney problems, excess fluid accumulates in body parts such as hands, legs, and feet. A person also experiences lack of energy, drowsiness, and shortness of breath. Hence, it is critical to ensure adequate daily requirements for various vitamins for kidneys are met so that the kidneys can function at optimal levels. This would, in turn, lead to desired levels of overall health and productivity.