By Dr Edward F Group
The kidneys are the organs that filter out toxins and waste from the bloodstream. Because toxins can affect your entire body, there is no question that supporting your kidneys is crucial for keeping your overall health in check. Without a balanced diet, purified drinking water, and body cleansing, toxins can build up and affect the function of the kidneys, liver, and neighbouring organs … and may even lead to kidney stones and other problems.
Cleansing the Kidneys With a Few Sips
Cleansing the kidneys is a simple process and most cleanses don’t require an exhaustive supply of tools or ingredients to work. In fact, just drinking plenty of purified water is the first step toward an effective flush. Water, however, only provides hydration. The following 5 kidney-cleansing drinks may provide that extra cleansing boost.
1. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice has been touted for years as a supporter of the urinary tract. Research shows that cranberries can help fight against urinary tract infections, possibly by decreasing the adhesion of bacteria to the bladder and urethra. Cranberries may also be helpful for cleansing the kidneys of excess calcium oxalate, one of the main contributors to kidney stones. When purchasing cranberry juice however, always choose varieties that are certified organic and free of added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavours; or, get a juicer and make your own.
2. Beetroot Juice
Beetroot and beetroot juice contains betaine, a very beneficial phytochemical which has antioxidant qualities and increases the acidity of urine. This can help clear calcium phosphate and struvite build-up from the kidneys. The removal of calcium in the kidneys not only promotes kidney function, but decreases the likelihood of kidney stones.
3. Lemon Juice
Naturally acidic lemon juice has been shown to increase citrate levels in the urine, a factor that discourages kidney stones from forming. For a quick lemon kidney cleanse, squeeze 4-5 lemons into a quart of cold water and drink up. Or for a warming beverage, squeeze one quarter to one half a lemon into 8 ounces of hot water daily.
4. Juice Cleanses
Juice cleanses are all the rage, and with good reason. A juice cleanse combines the nutritional power of fruit and vegetables into one, easy-to-drink beverage. The juice of vegetables and fruits is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients necessary for facilitating the removal of toxins. This helps take the strain off the liver, colon, and kidneys. Vegetables like celery, cucumber, zucchini, lettuce, carrots, kale, and spinach are great for juicing. For fruit, try apples, peeled oranges, pears, pineapple, and peaches.
What About Supplements?
There’s no question that certain nutrients are beneficial for kidney health but many people don’t get enough in their diet. That’s where kidney cleansing supplements can be helpful. The best ones contain herbs have had their active compounds extracted and enhanced to maximise efficacy.
