People who had a bit of wine each day were almost a third less likely to have kidney problems—and even those who already had chronic kidney disease saw a similar improvement in their risk for a related cardiovascular event.
For whatever reason (the study didn’t establish causation, just correlation) wine reduced protein in urine—a marker of kidney disease. There is a best guess at why, and that’s polyphenols, powerful antioxidants found in wine (especially reds). Wine has been previously correlated with improved heart health, so that likely helps explain the lower risk of heart attacks, etc.
If you have kidney disease, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Often, you’ll have to monitor salt intake (if your kidneys don’t filter correctly, levels can get off, and that then triggers the cardiac event). Any approved foods that are high in antioxidants, like wine (in moderation) might help—inflammation is often part and parcel of chronic diseases.
There are other ways to support your kidneys, too. Make sure your immune system is strong (again, so it can fight inflammation, but also because people with chronic illnesses are at a higher risk for infection). Talk with a doctor or specialist in complementary therapy about herbs that may support kidney function and health.
What kidney healthy meals do you enjoy a glass of wine with?
