Is drinking only water enough to cleanse the kidneys?
The kidneys are the body's natural filtering system and require sufficient water to excrete urine. Urine is the primary waste product that allows the body to eliminate toxins. So, does simply drinking water help cleanse the kidneys?
The kidneys are two small organs located on either side of the spine, beneath the ribs. They play a vital role in removing excess waste from the body, balancing electrolytes, and producing hormones.
If you don't have any underlying health conditions, a balanced diet and adequate hydration are usually sufficient to keep your kidneys healthy. However, certain foods, herbs, and supplements can also help support healthy kidneys.
If you don't have any underlying health conditions, a balanced diet and adequate water intake are usually enough to keep your kidneys healthy (Photo: Camlot).
Water is key to cleansing the kidneys.
According to the Institute of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), approximately 60% of an adult's body weight is water. Every organ, from the brain to the liver, needs water to function.
The kidneys are the body's natural filtration system and require sufficient water to excrete urine. Urine is the primary waste product that allows the body to eliminate toxins it doesn't need.
According tographlineWhen fluid intake is low, urine output is also low. Low urine output can lead to kidney failure, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections.
Therefore, drinking enough water is crucial for the kidneys to properly eliminate excess waste, and this is especially important during kidney detoxification.
According to AND, the recommended daily fluid intake is 3.7 liters for adult men and 2.7 liters for adult women. However, this amount of fluid can vary depending on several factors, such as age, activity level, and any underlying health conditions.
Therefore, most people don't need to cleanse, detoxify, or purify their kidneys. However, following a heart-healthy diet can help support kidney health. Water is the best beverage to support kidney function.
Another way to cleanse the kidneys.
The U.S. National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends adopting a heart-healthy diet to prevent cholesterol and fat from building up in the arteries, kidneys, and heart.
Some heart-healthy foods may include lean animal proteins, such as poultry, fish, and meat; fruits and vegetables; and low-fat or non-fat dairy products.
Certain specific foods can also help cleanse your kidneys:
ButGrape
A 2019 animal study found that red grape juice and raisins may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This could help protect the kidneys from fat deposition and improve kidney strength and function.
A glass of grape juice or a handful of red grapes makes a great afternoon snack.
Butcranberries
A 2019 review found that cranberries may help promote kidney health in several ways, such as reducing urinary tract infections, decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress, and improving gut microbiota.
ButSeaweed
Seaweed has been studied for its beneficial effects on the pancreas, kidneys, and liver. In a 2014 animal trial, mice fed seaweed for 22 days showed a reduction in both diabetic kidney and liver damage.
So, the next time you're craving something to eat, try a packet of seasoned dried seaweed.
ButCalcium-rich foods
According to the National Kidney Foundation, consuming calcium may help reduce kidney stones. Calcium binds to oxalate, reducing its absorption and excretion. Too much oxalate in the urine can lead to kidney stones.
You can meet the recommended daily calcium intake of 1 gram by consuming calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy products like cow's milk, yogurt, and cheese, tofu, soy products, lean meats, and fortified cereals.
ButDrink tea to cleanse your kidneys.
A 2023 study found that drinking unsweetened tea was associated with a lower risk of kidney disease compared to those who did not drink tea.
Some types of tea that can help cleanse your kidneys include green tea, black tea, etc.
ButSupplementing with supportive nutrients
Some supplements may benefit your kidney health, such as vitamin B6 and omega-3s.
According to the National Institutes of Health, many people with chronic kidney disease have low levels of vitamin B6.
Vitamin B6 is a crucial element in many metabolic reactions. It is essential for the metabolism of glyoxylate, which can become oxalate instead of glycine if there is a deficiency. Excessive oxalate can lead to kidney stones.
The recommended dietary intake of vitamin B6 is 1.3g for adults aged 19 and older.
High levels of omega-6 fatty acids can lead to kidney stone formation. Supplementing with omega-3s can naturally slow down the metabolism of omega-6s, with the optimal absorption ratio being 1:1.
