Staying hydrated is of utmost importance, especially when it comes to kidney health and kidney stone prevention. Here are some natural beverages that can help improve kidney health and promote kidney stone removal:
Water
Increasing water intake is an effective way to prevent kidney stones. Research suggests that drinking enough water to produce 2 liters of urine per day can help prevent kidney stone formation. Dehydration is a common cause of kidney stones, so it’s important to stay properly hydrated.
Check the color of your urine to ensure you’re drinking enough water. Dark yellow urine indicates dehydration, and you should increase your water intake if you notice this color.
Basil Leaf Water
Basil leaves contain acetic acid, which has a corrosive effect on kidney stones. The leaves also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking basil leaf water can help prevent urinary tract infections caused by kidney stones and protect urinary function. However, it’s important not to consume basil leaf juice or water for extended periods as it may worsen low blood pressure and low blood sugar conditions.
Lemon Water
Lemon water is a rich source of vitamin C, which aids in dissolving calcium and oxalate crystals in urine, preventing stone formation and inhibiting the growth of existing stones. However, individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease should limit their intake of lemon water as it can aggravate the condition.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps dissolve kidney stones. Consuming apple cider vinegar diluted in water may also help reduce pain associated with kidney stones. A review of studies suggests that consuming apple cider vinegar can prevent kidney stone formation. Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 6-8 ounces of water, but avoid consuming more than 8 ounces of this mixture per day. You can also use apple cider vinegar in cooking or as a salad dressing.
Excessive consumption of apple cider vinegar can lead to throat irritation, gastroesophageal reflux, and tooth enamel damage. Individuals with diabetes should also use it with caution.
Red Hibiscus Tea
Also known as roselle or hibiscus, red hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and has diuretic properties. It increases urinary excretion of excess salts, reducing the risk of kidney stone formation. A 2008 study conducted by Khon Kaen University in Thailand found that 9 participants who consumed 1.5 grams of roselle powder twice daily for 15 days experienced reduced uric acid levels in the blood and improved uric acid excretion in the urine, thereby lowering the risk of kidney stone formation.
Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice is rich in polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties. It helps reduce acid and calcium oxalate levels in urine, inhibiting kidney stone formation and preventing the growth of existing stones. However, due to its high potassium content, individuals with chronic kidney disease should avoid consuming pomegranate juice as it may further impair kidney function.
Celery Juice
Celery has been found to be beneficial in the treatment of kidney stones. A study suggested that women who consumed less celery were more prone to kidney stones. Another study from 2018 showed that celery extract helped break down kidney stones in mice.
However, celery can interact with certain medications, leading to adverse effects. Consult your doctor before incorporating celery into your diet if you are taking any prescription drugs.
Orange Juice
Orange juice, along with other citrus juices like grapefruit and lemon, is rich in citrate. This compound inhibits the crystallization of stone-forming substances. Regular consumption of orange juice helps dissolve and expel kidney stones through urine.
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