Top 10 Best Drinks for Kidney Disease: A Refreshing Guide
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Living with kidney disease can be difficult and overwhelming, but also empowers you to take charge of your health. One such method is by being mindful of the liquids you drink throughout the day. While water is always a great option, there are many other tasty options that can help keep your kidney condition in check while quenching your thirst. In this blog post, we’ll cover the 8 best drinks for kidney disease and provide tips on how to make them more refreshing.
What is kidney disease?
Kidney disease is a condition that affects the function of your kidneys. When kidneys are impaired, they can’t filter out waste and chemicals as well as they should, leading to a build-up in your body. Symptoms of kidney problems include fatigue, swelling, nausea, and poor appetite.
What is the function of our kidneys?
Our kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of your spine. They filter out waste products and toxins from the body, allowing us to remain healthy. When these filters become impaired, our health is at risk and we can develop kidney disease. People do not realize that the kidney is a vital organ.
When you are living with kidney disease, it is important to pay attention to everything you eat and drink. Sign up for my newsletter to receive a free kidney-friendly snacks list.
What are the symptoms of kidney disease?
Common signs of kidney disease include fatigue, swelling, nausea, and poor appetite. Other symptoms can include high blood pressure, changes in skin color or texture, frequent urination changes in urine quality or output, pain in the back or side area near your kidneys, and difficulty concentrating.
What causes kidney disease?
Kidney disease is caused by a variety of factors including diabetes, high blood pressure, genetics, and certain medications. It can also be caused by certain lifestyle choices such as smoking or overconsumption of alcohol.
There are actually 5 stages of kidney disease. When people think of kidney disease they tend to automatically think of kidney transplant (or kidney failure) or dialysis patients. While that can be a result of kidney disease, there are a lot of people who live with kidney disease that are not on the transplant list or receive dialysis. I am currently at stage 3-b of kidney disease. I developed kidney disease from having uncontrolled high blood pressure. I actually had no symptoms and had no idea I had it until a doctor noticed my kidney function through routine blood work.
If I follow a healthy diet and continue to follow a lifestyle that will lower blood pressure I can live a healthy life and never advance to a more advanced form of chronic kidney disease and not cause more kidney damage.
One of the best ways to take care of your kidney health and try to have healthy kidneys is not only to eat foods like kidney-healthy snacks but also to drink the best drinks for kidney disease.
10 Best drinks for kidney disease
You are probably wondering, OK so what are drinks good for the kidneys? Here is a list of the 8 best drinks for kidney disease.
1. Water
Water is the best drink for all your health needs. Most people do not get enough water into their diet. It helps flush out waste and toxins that can build up in your body due to kidney disease, keeping you hydrated and healthy. However, if you are like me and do not like the taste of plain water you can try flavored water. You can try infused water with your favorite fruits.
2. Sparking Water
Sparkling water can be a great alternative to regular water. It has the same benefits as still water but with added carbonation, making it more refreshing and enjoyable.
3. Smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to get the nutrients you need while managing kidney disease. You can add ingredients like fruits and vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals that may be lacking due to your condition.
4. Coffee
Coffee can provide a great pick-me-up without the added sugar and sodium that other caffeinated beverages may contain. Just be sure to drink it in moderation as too much caffeine can worsen kidney disease. There are times I need a pick-me-up. I don't like black coffee, I do, however, love Starbucks frappuccinos. They can get expensive over time though. I just make homemade Starbucks Frappuccinos and save money and time because I don't have to travel to a Starbucks to get them.
5. Herbal Tea
Herbal teas are a great source of antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation associated with kidney disease. Most herbal teas are caffeine-free, so you won’t need to worry about any adverse effects from drinking them.
6. Green Tea
Green tea is a great source of antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation associated with kidney disease. It also contains less caffeine than coffee, so you don’t need to worry about any adverse effects from drinking it.
7. Carrot Juice
Carrot juice is a great source of vitamins and minerals that can help improve kidney function. Carrots are especially beneficial for those with kidney disease as they contain antioxidants that can reduce inflammation associated with the condition.
8. Apple Juice
Apple juice is a great source of vitamins and minerals that can help improve kidney function. Additionally, apples contain pectin which helps reduce inflammation associated with the condition.
9. Coconut Water
Coconut water is a great drink for people with kidney disease. It’s full of electrolytes, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients that can help keep your kidneys healthy. Plus, it has a refreshing taste that makes it enjoyable to drink.
10. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is often recommended for those with kidney disease, as it contains high amounts of antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation associated with the condition. Additionally, cranberry juice can help flush out toxins and bacteria, keeping your kidneys healthy. It’s important to note that cranberry juice is also high in sugar and should be consumed in moderation.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complication of kidney disease. When UTIs occur, they can cause pain, fever, and an increased urge to urinate. To prevent or treat UTIs while managing kidney disease, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, cranberry juice is often recommended as it contains antioxidants that can help flush out bacteria and reduce inflammation associated with UTIs.
Fruit juices in general, such as grapefruit juice and orange juice may seem like a good choice of drinks for the kidneys. However, they are actually high in sugar so they should be consumed in moderation.
Tips for Making Your Drinks More Refreshing
There are several ways to make your drinks more refreshing and enjoyable while managing kidney disease. Here are some tips:
- Try adding fresh fruit or- herbs like mint or basil for flavor.
- Experiment with different temperatures, such as adding crushed ice to your drink or using warm tea instead of cold.
- Add natural sweeteners like honey or Stevia to enhance the flavor.
- Add some sparkling water to your drink for a light, bubbly fizz.
What drinks should you avoid with kidney disease?
It’s important to be mindful of the liquids you consume when managing kidney disease. Caffeinated beverages can worsen symptoms associated with the condition and alcohol should be avoided completely as it can further damage your kidneys. Additionally, sugary drinks like soda or juice should be limited as they contain high amounts of sugar that can cause a build-up in your body over time. Lastly, it’s best to stay away from energy drinks as they contain high amounts of caffeine and sugar that can cause dehydration and worsen symptoms associated with kidney disease.
I love Dr. Pepper. However, Dr. Pepper is one of the worst things you can drink with kidney disease. All dark colas are bad for your kidneys because it is harder for your kidneys to function and flush out the toxins. I know when I drink too much soda (or pop depending on where you live) because my kidneys will actually hurt. The pain is in my lower back known as flank pain.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your own health conditions. Some kidney patients have excess fluid in their body and have a fluid restriction. I have to live on a low-sodium or DASH diet. Having less salt in your diet will help with my blood pressure and as a result help to keep my kidney function as balanced as it can be. Your fluid intake should be as healthy as it possibly can be for your overall health.
You should also watch the amount of alcohol you drink. Alcohol in general is bad for your kidneys. Alcohol can also cause an adverse effect on medications you may be on.
If you need more help with a kidney-friendly diet you should speak with a renal dietitian and they can help you set up a meal plan that is tailored just for you. The first step to having healthy kidneys or providing your kidney is to drink plenty of water. Also, watch how much salt you take. There are a variety of salt substitutes on the market such as Mrs. Dash that you can use to season your food.
Overall, there are many drinks available to help manage kidney disease and provide patients with flavorful and nourishing options. Whether it’s homemade juices to stay hydrated and balanced, or herbal teas to maintain kidney health, all of these drinks provide clear benefits while being tasty. Additionally, depending on the condition of your kidneys recruit your doctor and nutritionist for advice about which drinks you should have and how much.
Take time off from work to rest your body when needed as it is important for relief and as a reminder that you should listen to your body’s needs. Finally, consult a doctor before commencing any dietary changes or consuming new beverages in order to ensure proper kidney health. Now we are curious – what is your favorite drink for managing kidney disease? Comment below!
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