The influence of diet upon the urinary system is manifested in various ways: these are outlined below General: A natural and balanced diet favors well functioning kidneys and urinary system. Infections: the female urinary system, especially the urinary bladder, is more prone to infections than that of males. Thus good hygiene and diet high in vitamins and phytochemicals strengthen the immune system and protect it against cystitis and other forms of urinary infection. Prevention of stones: There are specific foods and medicinal plants to prevent stone formation. Enhancement of renal functions: The majority of plant based foods, especially fruits and vegetables, enhance the work of the kidneys and produce a diuretic effect (increase the discharge of urine). On the contrary, foods of animal origin, such as eggs, fish and meat do not favor the production of urine and their protein increases the work of the kidneys. This is why it is recommended that, in cases of nephritis or renal inflammation, the patient reduce or eliminate the intake of these foods. The excess salt and of protein, typical of the western omnivores diet, is a major threat to the health of the kidneys. Both sodium and protein force the kidneys to carry an additional workload. This is why the recipes therefore should satisfy the following requirements: They should be low in sodium, which is easily achieved using unprocessed plant based ingredients that contain little sodium and much potassium. This peculiar mineral proportion favors the production of urine. Of course, these dishes should be seasoned sparingly. They should keep a somewhat lower proportion of proteins: this is achieved with plant based foods, which generally have a lower concentration of protein. Besides, plant based protein does not overwork renal functions.
