The kidneys work tirelessly. Every day, they filter the blood, eliminate waste and regulate water, mineral salts and blood pressure. To preserve them, it is advisable to favor a more plant-based diet. But also to limit ultra-processed products and not to exceed approximately 2,300 mg of sodium per day.
A few simple habits can also support their proper functioning. Dr. Eric Berg and several recent studies highlight three foods that are easy to integrate into your daily life: cucumber, lemon and parsley.
Cucumber: an ally to better hydrate the kidneys
Cucumber is approximately 95% water. According to Dr. Eric Berg, it promotes urine production and helps the kidneys eliminate creatinine and uric acid.
Cucumber helps you stay well hydrated without providing a lot of calories. In salads or sticks, it facilitates sufficient water intake, which helps the kidneys eliminate waste. In addition, good hydration and a stable weight help reduce the risk of kidney failure.
Replacing part of the aperitif biscuits or other salty snacks with cucumber is also a good idea. Adding a few slices to a carafe of water also allows you to drink more while limiting salt. In cases of advanced kidney failure, the amount of fluids may sometimes need to be limited. In this case, only the nephrologist can define the appropriate intakes.
Lemon: an asset against kidney stones
The main interest of lemon comes from the citrate it naturally contains. This substance binds to the calcium present in urine and limits the formation of crystals which cause many kidney stones. Drinking lemon juice regularly increases the level of citrate in the urine and can also help reduce excess uric acid.
A simple solution is to replace sodas and syrups with lemon water. Lemon can also be used to season fish, vegetables or salads instead of very salty sauces. People who suffer from reflux, heartburn or fragile tooth enamel should seek the advice of their doctor before consuming it every day.
Parsley: an herb with beneficial properties for the kidneys
Parsley is rich in flavonoids, such as apigenin, luteolin and quercetin. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties. A study published in 2024 showed that they reduced oxidative stress, improved certain metabolic markers, and supported kidney function. Researchers have also observed an effect against certain bacteria and certain fungi involved in urinary infections.
Another study, carried out in 2017 in rats, found a decrease in calcium in the urine of animals given parsley. Adding it regularly to dishes can therefore be beneficial for the kidneys. On the other hand, this habit never replaces treatment prescribed by a doctor.