World Kidney Day 2020: The event focuses on “Preventive Interventions” to avoid the onset and progression of kidney diseases.

On the second Thursday of March every year, World Kidney Day is celebrated across the globe. On this day, not only the problems associated with kidney diseases are discussed, but also measures that could help bring the number of people being affected are pondered upon.

According to the National Health Portal of India, about one in 10 people suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease  globally.

In the absence of disease, a well-rounded diet and adequate water intake are usually enough to keep your kidneys healthy.

However, certain foods, herbs, and supplements can help support strong kidneys.

From your morning glass of water to that extra cup of herbal tea, here are four ways to cleanse your kidneys and keep them functioning strong.

Hydration is key

The adult human body is composed of almost 60 percent water. Every single organ, from the brain to the liver, requires water to function.

As the filtration system of the body, the kidneys require water to secrete urine. When water intake is low, urine volume is low. A low urine output may lead to kidney dysfunction, such as the creation of kidney stones.

It’s crucial to drink enough water so that the kidneys can properly flush out any excess waste materials. This is especially important during a kidney cleanse. The recommended daily intake of fluids is roughly 3.7 liters and 2.7 liters a day for men and women, respectively, according to the Institute of Medicine.

Choose foods that support kidney health

Grapes

Grapes, peanuts, and some berries contain a beneficial plant compound called Resveratrol.

A handful of red grapes makes a great afternoon snack — and they taste even better frozen!

Cranberries

Cranberries have often been praised for their bladder health benefits.

A clinical trial in Nutrition Journal demonstrated that women who consumed sweetened, dried cranberries daily for two weeks experienced a decrease in the incidence of urinary tract infections.

Dried cranberries are a deliciously sweet addition to trail mix, salads, or even oatmeal.

Fruit juices

Lemon, orange, and melon juice all contain citric acid, or citrate.

Citrate helps prevent kidney stone formation by binding with calcium in urine. This inhibits the growth of calcium crystals, which can lead to kidney stones.

In addition, drinking a cup of fresh juice per day can contribute to your daily recommended fluid intake.

Calcium-rich foods

Many people believe that avoiding calcium can help to prevent kidney stones. In fact, the opposite is true.

Too much urinary oxalate can lead to kidney stones. Calcium is needed to bind with oxalate to reduce the absorption and excretion of this substance.

You can meet the recommended daily intake of 1.2 grams of calcium by consuming high-calcium foods, such as soy or almond milk, tofu, and fortified cereals.

Drink kidney-cleansing teas

Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle is a perennial plant that has long been used in traditional herbal medicine.

Stinging nettle leaf contains beneficial compounds that can help to reduce inflammation. It’s also high in antioxidants, which help to protect the body and organs from oxidative stress.

Try this tea: Traditional Medicinals Organic Nettle Leaf Tea

Hydrangea

Hydrangea is a gorgeous flowering shrub, well-known for its lavender, pink, blue, and white flowers.

A recent animal study found that extracts of Hydrangea particulate given for three days offered a protective effect against kidney damage. This is likely due to the antioxidant capabilities of the plant.

Supplement with supportive nutrients

Vitamin B-6

Vitamin B-6 is an important cofactor in many metabolic reactions. B-6 is required for the metabolism of glyoxylate, which can become oxalate instead of glycine if B-6 is deficient.

As mentioned above, too much oxalate may lead to kidney stones.

Supplement with a daily B-complex vitamin that provides at least 50 milligrams of B-6.

Omega-3s

The standard American diet is often high in inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids and low in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

Researc suggests that high levels of omega-6 fatty acids may lead to kidney stone formation. An increase in omega-3s can naturally decrease the metabolism of omega-6s, with the best intake ratio being 1:1.

Supplement with a daily high-quality fish oil containing 1.2 g of both EPA and DHA.

Potassium citrate

Potassium is a necessary element of electrolyte balance and pH balance of urine.

Therapy with potassium citrate can potentially help to reduce the formation of kidney stones, especially in people who experience recurring episodes. For those with a history of other kidney problems, talk to your doctor before you take potassium supplements.

Supplement with a daily multivitamin or multimineral that contains potassium.

Source https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-cleanse#supplements

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