Is It Safe To Do a Kidney Detox?

Kidney detoxes continue to gain in popularity as people look for quick-fix wellness solutions. But can these cleanses actually improve kidney health?

Let’s sort it out with nephrologist Juan Calle, MD.

What is a kidney cleanse?

A kidney cleanse is usually marketed as a quick way to improve the overall health of your kidneys. Many of these detoxes use juices, supplements or diets focused on certain foods or herbs.

The programs often make big promises, including:

• Toxin elimination
• Better kidney function
• Improved nutrient absorption
• Increased energy
• Reduced risk of kidney stones and infections
• Hormone regulation

It’s best to view those sorts of claims with suspicion, cautions Dr. Calle. “There’s no good medical evidence or science that backs this up,” he says. “You need to be careful. A cleanse isn’t magical.”

Do your kidneys need a special detox?

The short answer? Not really.

Your kidneys are in the detox business, after all. They filter your blood and work to remove waste and toxins from your body all day, every day. They don’t need special cleansing to do their job.

The idea of a dramatic detox reset isn’t realistic either. “Fixes aren’t that easy,” clarifies Dr. Calle. “Almost everything is a process. It takes time.”

But while an intense detox may not solve problems, it can create them. Dr. Calle says elements of some cleansing programs can actually stress your kidneys, particularly if they’re done for extended periods.

Potential issues from kidney detoxes include:

• Dehydration: Some cleanses encourage long fasts or restrict fluids. That can cause problems, as staying hydrated helps your kidneys efficiently remove waste from your system.
• System overload: Juices or “superfood” kidney detox blends often pack in huge amounts of beets, spinach, rhubarb or kale. They’re all loaded with oxalates, which can — in high amounts — impair kidney function and raise your risk of kidney stones.
• Medication reactions: Detoxing while taking over-the-counter or prescription medications can be risky. “That’s really calling for trouble,” states Dr. Calle.

Safe ways to improve kidney health

While cleanses won’t help your kidneys, healthy daily habits will. Here are five ways you can give your kidneys a little TLC as they do their all-important job inside your body.

• Stay hydrated. Consider hydration your kidneys’ best friend. Fluids dilute waste and help your kidneys flush toxins from your body. “Hydrated kidneys are happy kidneys,” says Dr. Calle.
• Eat a balanced diet. A kidney-friendly diet leans toward plant-based foods, with ample fruits and vegetables plus whole grains. Try to limit meats, which make the kidneys work harder, as well as foods high in sodium and added sugars.
• Exercise regularly. Exercise boosts kidney health by improving blood flow, reducing blood pressure and managing weight — key factors for kidney function. Sweating during workouts also helps excrete toxins, giving your kidneys a lighter load.
• Limit over-the-counter medications. Common pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) can strain your kidneys, especially if taken often. “Even though they’re over the counter, they can be harmful for kidney function,” warns Dr. Calle.
• Manage chronic conditions. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure or chronic kidney disease, staying on top of treatment is essential. Preventing spikes or swings helps protect your kidneys long-term.

Final thoughts

Your kidneys don’t need special cleansing. They need consistency. Hydration, a healthy diet, exercise and careful use of medications can do more to benefit your kidneys than any detox product.

If you’re concerned about your kidneys, talk with a healthcare provider about your options.

But when it comes to a dedicated kidney cleanse, Dr. Calle’s advice is simple: “Don’t do it.”