Healthy hydration for kidneys beyond water: Best everyday drinks for strong kidney health
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Synopsis
Water is the best for kidney health. Lemon water prevents kidney stones. Herbal teas help flush out waste. Plant-based milks are good for those avoiding dairy. Low-sugar smoothies provide hydration and nutrients. Coconut water is hydrating but use in moderation. These drinks support kidney function. Choose wisely and enjoy in moderation for better health.
By ET Online
Water is by far the best drink for keeping your kidneys in top shape, but there are several other beverages that can also support kidney health—if chosen wisely and enjoyed in moderation. Your kidneys are incredible little organs: they filter toxins from your blood, regulate minerals, maintain blood pressure, and even help produce red blood cells. Not drinking enough fluids—or regularly sipping the wrong drinks—can overwork them and increase the risk of infections, kidney stones, or even kidney disease.
Lemon water isn’t just refreshing; it provides citric acid, which may help prevent kidney stones by stopping calcium from binding with other minerals in urine. Simply add fresh lemon or lime slices to your water, or squeeze some juice into sparkling water for extra flavor.
Herbal teas—such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger, or hibiscus—offer hydration, antioxidants, and gentle diuretic benefits that help the kidneys flush out waste. Green tea is rich in antioxidants like EGCG, which may lower the risk of kidney stones and support overall kidney health, even in people with diabetes.
Plant-Based Milks (Almond, Oat, Coconut)
For those avoiding dairy, unsweetened plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk provide hydration and nutrients. They’re often lower in potassium and phosphorus than cow’s milk, making them a smart choice for kidney care. Always check labels to avoid added sugars or unnecessary additives.
Low-Sugar Smoothies
Coconut Water (In Moderation)
Coconut water is naturally hydrating and packed with electrolytes, but its high potassium content makes it best suited for those with normal kidney function. People who need to limit potassium should only drink it under medical guidance. Always choose plain, unsweetened coconut water.
[With TOI inputs]
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Lemon Water Lemon water isn’t just refreshing; it provides citric acid, which may help prevent kidney stones by stopping calcium from binding with other minerals in urine. Simply add fresh lemon or lime slices to your water, or squeeze some juice into sparkling water for extra flavor.
Herbal teas—such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger, or hibiscus—offer hydration, antioxidants, and gentle diuretic benefits that help the kidneys flush out waste. Green tea is rich in antioxidants like EGCG, which may lower the risk of kidney stones and support overall kidney health, even in people with diabetes.
Plant-Based Milks (Almond, Oat, Coconut)
For those avoiding dairy, unsweetened plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk provide hydration and nutrients. They’re often lower in potassium and phosphorus than cow’s milk, making them a smart choice for kidney care. Always check labels to avoid added sugars or unnecessary additives.
Low-Sugar Smoothies
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Smoothies made with low-potassium, low-sugar fruits and vegetables—such as blueberries, pineapple, strawberries, apples, and carrots—can deliver extra hydration and nutrients. Skip bananas and high-sugar yogurt, and avoid added sweeteners to keep them kidney-friendly.Coconut Water (In Moderation)
Coconut water is naturally hydrating and packed with electrolytes, but its high potassium content makes it best suited for those with normal kidney function. People who need to limit potassium should only drink it under medical guidance. Always choose plain, unsweetened coconut water.
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[With TOI inputs]
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