Vitamins That Are Good for Kidney Function

Vitamins are important to carry out essential body functions like cell re-growth, energy production and tissue repair. According to the National Kidney Foundation, there are certain vitamins needed for kidney function, especially if you suffer from kidney disease. Since vitamins are not produced by the body, but rather consumed through food or supplements, getting the proper amount is essential for proper health.

Vitamin Requirements

According to The Nephron Information Center, people who have a limited kidney function must restrict consumption of vegetable, fruits and dairy products all which contain vitamin B. Foods high in vitamin B are also high in potassium. When the kidney has limited function, it cannot properly filter potassium, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse.

A reduced kidney function may also limit the amount of vitamins absorbed into the body, making it necessary to take daily supplements to stay healthy.

Vitamins

According to the National Kidney Foundation, there are a handful of supplemental vitamins that are good for kidney function. The B-complex vitamins are essential for preventing anemia, since they bind with iron. Folic acid is used to increase red blood cell developments and also work to prevent stroke or heart disease. Take 6 mcg of vitamin B12 each day, as well as 10 mg of vitamin B6 and 1 mg of folic acid, as recommended by The Nephron Information Center.

Vitamin C is necessary for kidney function, helps keep tissue healthy, prevents infection, and allows cuts and bruises to heal quickly. Take 60 mg of vitamin C each day for optimal health. Calcium is needed to prevent brittle bones; however, calcium may cause further kidney ailments or even stone formation. Speak with your dietician or physician about individual recommendations of calcium and vitamin D.