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Kidney cleanse programs typically involve restricted diets or consuming only water and juice for several days. Supporters claim that these programs can cleanse the kidneys and promote better health. However, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims.
The kidneys perform essential functions that keep the body healthy. These two small, bean-shaped organs filter toxins from the blood, balance mineral levels, and help regulate blood pressure. Most people can keep their kidneys healthy by staying hydrated and eating a balanced, healthful diet.
The kidneys act as a natural filtration system for the body, removing waste, toxins, and excess water from the blood. The kidneys even cleanse themselves when the body takes in enough fluid. Kidney cleanses involve consuming specific foods and herbs that may help remove toxins from the body and promote better kidney health.
Kidney cleansing programs vary, but they typically involve consuming a restricted diet for several days. This diet may include smoothies, juices, teas, herbs, and foods that people believe help detoxify the body and improve overall health.
Proponents of kidney cleansing say that certain foods, beverages, and diets can detoxify the kidneys and body. However, there is currently little scientific research to support these claims.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) state that “there isn’t any convincing evidence that detox or cleansing programs actually remove toxins from your body or improve your health.”
Most people can keep their kidneys healthy by staying hydrated and eating a balanced, healthful diet. However, some herbs and foods that are popular in kidney cleansing programs may have properties that help promote kidney health.
Drinking enough fluid every day is essential to a person’s overall health. Water is crucial for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, getting rid of waste and toxins, keeping the skin healthy, and performing a wide range of other bodily functions. Consuming enough water can also help prevent kidney problems, such as kidney stones.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), many healthcare professionals recommend drinking six to eight 8-ounce (oz) glasses of water a day.
The body needs salt, or sodium, but consuming too much can raise blood pressure, which can increase a person’s risk of kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke.
The NIDDK recommend that people limit their sodium consumption to less than 2,300 milligrams a day to reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease. People can reduce their sodium intake by eating fewer processed foods and choosing low-sodium or sodium-free options.
People can make some simple dietary changes to improve both their kidney health and general health, but it is important to note that the following lists are not for people with preexisting kidney disease.
Consider limiting or avoiding the following foods and beverages:
processed foods
refined carbohydrates
sugar and artificial sweeteners
animal proteins, such as beef, pork, and organ meat
high-sodium foods
alcohol
caffeine
A person can also try adding these kidney-friendly foods to their diet:
berries
citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges
apples
low-fat dairy products
vegetables
whole grains, such as barley, brown rice, and oatmeal
lean meats, including chicken and seafood
A person should consult a doctor before starting a kidney cleanse or detox regimen, particularly if they have kidney stones or kidney disease. Limiting the duration of cleansing programs to a few days can help reduce the risk of adverse health effects.