Anti-inflammatory Nutrition for IgA Nephropathy

Introduction

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) is an autoimmune form of kidney disease. In IgAN, the immune system is triggered, and IgA antibodies are produced and bind together, causing inflammation, scarring, and damage to the kidneys (1). Eating an anti-inflammatory diet can help to support overall kidney health, reduce inflammation, and be a complementary part of medical treatment. Each person’s nutrition needs are individualized, and speaking with a healthcare provider or renal dietitian who specializes in IgAN can help. 

What Is an Anti-inflammatory Diet?

Anti-inflammatory diets are used to support whole-body health and limit inflammation and stress on the body. These eating patterns are focused on whole and minimally processed foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Commonly known eating patterns that are considered anti-inflammatory are the Mediterranean Diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet (2). It is important to know that there is not one single food or nutrient that will reduce inflammation, but instead, following an anti-inflammatory eating plan can be kidney protective. 

Foods That May Support Kidney Health

The following foods are anti-inflammatory. Eating a variety of colorful fruits and veggies is a great way to make sure you are getting many different antioxidants throughout the day. The different colors of these foods contain different antioxidants. If you have been told to limit your potassium, choose lower or medium potassium foods that vary in color. 

• Fruits and vegetables
  • All kinds are anti-inflammatory
• Healthy fats
  • Olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds.
  • Omega-3-rich fish such as salmon, sardines (watch out fo the sodium), and trout.
• Whole grains
  • Oats, quinoa, brown rice, and barley, when appropriate.
• Plant-based proteins
  • Beans, lentils, tofu, and other legumes.
• Herbs and spices
  • Turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, parsley, and rosemary to add flavor while reducing reliance on salt.

Gluten-Free Diets

A gluten-free diet has received attention in the IgA nephropathy (IgAN) community because gluten may influence the immune system and gut health, both of which have been linked to IgAN (3). However, current research does not support recommending a gluten-free diet for everyone with IgAN. 

A gluten-free diet is essential for people who have both IgAN and celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten. Some individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may also notice improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms after eliminating gluten.

If you are someone who suspects you may be gluten-sensitive, limiting processed foods in the diet that contain gluten is a great way to start. Read labels in sauces, soups, dressings, dips, and packaged goods for wheat and wheat products.  Focus on whole foods such as rice, cauliflower, potatoes (as allowed), gluten-free oats, and quinoa as naturally gluten-free alternatives. 

Foods to Limit

The following types of food contribute to inflammation or place additional stress on the kidneys. Many of these foods are also high in salt, which has been shown to increase swelling and proteinuria. 

• Highly processed snack foods
• Sugary beverages and sweets
• Processed meats
• Excess sodium
• Foods high in saturated and trans fats

Putting It Into Practice

Here are some helpful ways to follow an anti-inflammatory eating pattern:

• Build meals around vegetables.
• Choose healthy fats more often.
• Cook at home when possible.
• Read nutrition labels for sodium.
• Plan meals ahead.

Conclusion

Remember that there is not one single food that will improve or hurt your kidneys. Nutrition is a vital part of managing IgAN. Small, sustainable changes can support your kidney and overall health. If you are struggling to find individualized recommendations for your health, check out the IgAN Foundation’s Find a Health Specialist list or download the app for more anti-inflammatory recipes. 

Citations:

1. National Kidney Foundation. (2024, April 17). IgA nephropathy (IgAN). https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/iga-nephropathy
2. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2026). Anti inflammatory diet. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet
3. Pei T, Guo D. The relationship between gluten-free diet and IgA nephropathy: A review. Medicine (Baltimore). 2025 Jun 13;104(24):e41964. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000041964. PMID: 40527780; PMCID: PMC12173310.