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The Best Kidney Detox

The kidneys perform many important functions. They filter toxins out of the bloodstream, release hormones that govern blood pressure, produce red blood cells and regulate water and electrolyte balance. Detoxification with certain foods, herbs and water helps keep these organs healthy.

  1. Grapes and Berries

    • Most fruits contain anti-oxidants, but grapes and berries are particularly rich in content. Grapes have a significant amount of potassium, and this helps support kidney function. Stones can form if lactic and uric acid build up. Grapes help flush uric acid out of the system. Cranberries and blueberries do the same work. Cranberries also help the urinary tract stay healthy and eliminate bacteria. Blueberries strengthen the immune system.

    Dark Green Vegetables

    • Green veggies are rich in anti-oxidants and help cleanse toxins, acids and bacteria from the kidneys. The main chemical in vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and asparagus is chlorophyll. It gives them their green color while boosting essential vitamins and minerals in the kidneys. Chlorophyll also increases production of red blood cells that help maintain the detoxification process.

    Water

    • Water is critical to any kidney detox program. A lack of water can increase the likelihood of stones. Everyone should drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Those who are already experiencing kidney issues should drink a minimum of 12 glasses a day.

    Herbs

    • Many herbs help detoxify kidneys. Dandelion and nettle leaves are a couple of the best. Dandelion is a natural diuretic. It also contains plenty of vitamins and minerals to keep your body running on essential nutrients during detoxification. Nettle leaves contain chlorophyll, as green vegetables do, which increase red blood cell production and cleanse uric acid from the system.
      Two other herbs that cleanse the kidneys are ginger and turmeric. These popular cooking herbs eliminate harmful acids and bacteria.

    Other Foods

    • Foods that are easily digestible and high in fiber are best for kidney detox. Millet and barley are great examples. Millet has plenty of fiber to cleanse kidneys and is high in mineral content. Barley also cleanses kidneys and is used to treat urinary tract infections.
      Protein is a necessary part of anyone's diet, but certain types cause more kidney strain than others. Fish and tofu are both high-quality sources of protein and are digested easily. Meat products are heavier and not as easy to digest, so these foods should be eaten sparingly.

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