Five drinks to help with kidney health - from coconut water to watermelon juice

As we age, it is not uncommon for our kidneys to lose some of their efficiency, but ensuring a steady flow of healthy liquids can helpkeep them healthy.

The primary function of the kidneys is to filter blood and remove waste, salt, and excess fluid from the body. However, consistently consumingpoor-quality drinks can lead to a host of health problems, including chronic kidney disease, which results from prolonged damage to the organ's small blood vessels.

Luckily, supplying your kidneys with healthy fluids can aid in filtering out all the necessary substances, contributing to overall body health. While water is undoubtedly the best thing you can provide your kidneys for this process, there are several other options that come with their own unique benefits.

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Drinks to help keep your kidney healthy Coconut water

Enjoyed in moderation, coconut water can assist the kidneys in eliminating citrate, chloride, and potassium. Not only is coconut water incredibly hydrating, aiding the kidneys in their essential functions, but a 2018 study also found that regular consumers had higher levels of potassium, chloride, and citrate in their urine.

Also, the coconut water itself did not affect the pH balance of the urine. Despite its benefits, those suffering from kidney disease or kidney failure should be cautious about the amount of coconut water they consume. This is due to the need to limit their potassium intake and coconut water's high potassium content.

Watermelon juice

Watermelons, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, are also incredibly hydrating. This makes watermelon juice an excellent choice for flushing toxins from the body.

Watermelons are rich in lycopene and antioxidants, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory benefits. They also have a diuretic effect, aiding in urine output. However, it is crucial to opt for fresh watermelon juice with minimal added sugars.

Lemon water

Infusing water with fresh lemons can support kidney function thanks to its high citric acid content. Citric acid is praised for its potential to prevent kidney stones by stopping calcium from binding with other minerals in your kidneys.

You can either add a few slices of fresh lemon to a glass of water or mix in freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is often recommended to help ward off urinary tract infections. This is because it can help prevent bacteria from attaching to the lining of your urinary tract.

It is crucial to take note as in certain instances, a UTI can escalate to the kidney, resulting in a variety of potentially severe complications.

Green tea

Brimming with polyphenols, green tea is a powerful antioxidant that can aid in reducing inflammation throughout the body. It could also potentially decrease your risk of developing kidney stones.

A study from China discovered that regular tea consumption could significantly reduce your risk of developing chronic kidney disease in the future. To maximise the benefits of green tea, it's generally recommended to enjoy it unsweetened, even when adding honey.