The kidneys are one of the most vital organs in the body and serve functions such as filtering blood, removing waste, and balancing the body’s fluids. However, the organs are susceptible to complications, such as kidney disease, infections, and cysts, which may occur due to age, genetics, and other environmental factors. A healthcare expert may recommend treatments and other lifestyle changes, such as making these nine healthy drinks part of their daily liquid intake.

Black coffee
Black coffee is a go-to drink to give people an energy boost when they need to work for long hours occasionally. The same beverage is also highly beneficial for individuals looking for natural drinks to improve kidney health. The drink contains antioxidants that protect the organ from developing diseases and help it filter the blood at a higher level for longer. One should not add other ingredients to black coffee. Consuming it with milk rich in potassium, phosphorus, or sugar might worsen kidney function.

Green tea
Drinking a cup or two of green tea throughout the day may help improve kidney health naturally. The drink is rich in polyphenols, compounds that work as antioxidants inside the body. Consuming green tea without added sugars is recommended for maximum benefits. Green tea may help lower the risk of kidney stones, which is important for maintaining good kidney health. To make a delicious and nutritious cup of green tea, boil water, add a tea bag, and steep it for 2 to 4 minutes. An individual could also add a cinnamon stick and a splash of lemon to enhance the drink’s taste.

Sparkling water
Carbonated beverages with sugar are unhealthy for the body and could damage the kidneys. As an alternative, people should consider drinking sparkling water, which offers the feel of a soda without the sweeteners. Moreover, the water ensures that the body is well hydrated, which helps the kidneys filter out waste materials from the body. If an individual wishes to enhance the flavor of sparkling water, they could add a little fresh lemon juice, a hint of fresh cranberry juice, or throw in some crushed basil or mint.

Low-sugar smoothies
Berries are rich in multiple antioxidants that are significantly helpful for the body. Blend berries like blueberries and other healthy ingredients like Greek Yogurt and flax seeds to have additional plant-based proteins. However, the individual should speak to an expert about adding such smoothies to their liquid intake because they are rich in potassium, phosphorus, and sugar, which could be harmful to the organ. If one does not have to watch their potassium intake, they could also blend in bananas to increase the nutritional benefits of this smoothie.

Lemon juice
A glass of lemon juice on regular occasions is one of the best ways to maintain kidney function. Since the fruit is naturally acidic, it increases citrate levels in urine and discourages the formation of kidney stones. Studies indicate that regular consumption of diluted lemon juice helps dissolve calcium oxalate crystals – one of the most common types of kidney stones. Furthermore, drinking lemon juice with olive oil could ensure the smooth passage of these stones. The juice may also help filter blood and flush waste materials via the kidneys.

Water
Keeping the kidneys healthy and functioning well can be achieved through natural means such as drinking plenty of water. Water is a low-calorie source of hydration that benefits those in the early stages of kidney disease. However, those in the later stages of the disease may need to limit their water intake as the kidneys may not be able to effectively remove excess water from the body. It’s best to consult a doctor to determine the appropriate amount of water to drink daily.

Apple cider vinegar
Adding apple cider vinegar to regular liquid intake may also complement kidney health. It also prevents oxidative stress on the kidneys and increases the antioxidant content inside the body. Furthermore, apple cider vinegar is also known to regulate blood pressure and maintain sugar levels, which is essential in improving kidney function. Apple cider vinegar is also rich in citric acid, a property that is known to dissolve kidney stones. One of the simplest ways to enjoy the benefits of apple cider vinegar is by mixing two teaspoons into a glass of water.

Watermelon juice
Adding watermelon juice to meal plans could act as a mild diuretic, which could help in hydrating and cleansing the kidneys. The fruit is also rich in lycopene, which may improve cardiovascular health and promote the bean-shaped organs’ health. Watermelon juice may also introduce potassium salts to the body, which regulate urine acidity and prevent the formation of large stones.

Pomegranates
An individual can eat pomegranates by themselves or blend them into a juice to enjoy its health benefits for the kidneys. The fruit is rich in potassium and helps remove stones that develop in the organ. Furthermore, the element also reduces urine acidity and helps flush out harmful waste material from the kidneys, which is essential to improve kidney health.