How Much Water Should I Drink for Healthy Kidneys?

We all know that we should be drinking water. It’s ingrained in us from early on. But when it comes to our kidneys, that hardworking, vital pair of organs that filters waste and regulates our body’s balance, water takes on a much more important role. Ayurvedic treatment for kidney disease also emphasizes on remaining hydrated for good renal function. So, the age-old question, ”How much water do you actually need for healthy kidneys?”

The answer, as with so many things in health, is not one-size-fits-all approach. You've probably heard the rule that you should drink “eight glasses a day,” and while it’s a good place to start, it doesn’t paint the whole story. Consider it less of a strict rule and more of a rough framework on which to build your individual drinking water regimen.

Why Is Water Important for Kidney Health?

Visualize your kidneys as high-tech filtration systems. They constantly filter out waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from your blood, and these are excreted from your body via urine. The key ingredient in this process is water. Kidney treatment in Ayurveda also encourages the patients to drink ample fluids for better renal health.

• Waste Removal: Water allows the waste products in the blood to be diluted for easier filtration by the kidneys. Proper hydration dilutes these substances, preventing kidney stones and other complications.
• Beating Kidney Stones: Kidney stones are hard deposits that usually develop in the kidneys when the urine is concentrated. Getting enough water helps dilute the urine so these stones are less likely to form.
• Supporting Your Kidneys: Like any other organ, the kidneys require ample hydration to perform their job in the best possible way. It helps them maintain their shape and conduct essential functions efficiently.
• Preventing Infections: Drinking enough water may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), which, in some instances, can lead to kidney infections. Water flushes out the harmful bacteria  and helps keep the urinary system healthy.

Factors That Impact Your Water Requirements:

You must be cognizant of the fact that water requirements depend on multiple factors like:

• Activity Level: If you are physically active, you will lose more water through sweat and will need to replenish it frequently.
• Climate: Your body tends to lose greater amounts of water through perspiration in hot, humid climate. One must replenish him/herself accordingly.
• General Health: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes or urinary tract infections, can impact your hydration needs.
• Diet: A high sodium diet is linked with dehydration.
• Diuretics: Certain medications have been known to increase water excretion.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnant ladies require more flulid intake.

Find Your Balance: Pay Attention to Your Body

Although having thumb rules can be useful, there’s nothing like listening to your body, which is the best judge of how much water it needs to consume. Thirst is a good sign that you are dehydrated. Don’t wait until you feel parched to pick up a glass of water.

Here are a few actionable tips you can follow to ensure you remain sufficiently hydrated:

• Start Your Morning with Water: Make a ritual out of early morning water.
• Use a Water Bottle: Take a water bottle and drink from it regularly throughout the day.
• Drink Before Meals: Drink a glass of water before your meals to feel full.
• Notice the Color of Your Urine: Light yellow or colorless urine typically indicates sufficient hydration. If your urine is dark yellow, then you must be drinking more fluids.
• Eat Water-Rich Foods: Fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens, should be a part of your diet, especially in summers.
• Don’t Wait Until You’re Thirsty: Older adults, in particular, should drink water at regular intervals, even if they’re not thirsty.
• Hydration with Food: Many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and celery, are high in water content and can help you stay hydrated. Be cautious of sugary drinks, as they can be harmful to your overall health.

When to Be Extra Mindful:

There are a few circumstances in which you should pay special attention to your water consumption:

• Before, During, and After Exercise: Hydrate before, during, and after exercising.
• When Traveling: In hot climates or when faced with a disruption to your normal routine, make sure you’re drinking enough water.
• When You’re Not Feeling Well: If you have a fever or are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, you’ll need to increase your fluid intake to avoid dehydration.

When to Consult Your Doctor?

Although it is usually a good thing to stay hydrated, excessive water intake can sometimes be an issue, especially for those with certain medical conditions. If you’re worried about your hydration needs, particularly if you have conditions like pre-existing kidney issues, heart failure, or other health problems, it’s always a good idea to check in with your doctor. They may offer tailored suggestions according to your individual health condition. If you are interested in herbal treatment, then consult Karma Ayurveda Hospital, the best Ayurvedic hospital in the country. Karma Ayurveda, led by Dr. Puneet Dhawan, offers genuine Ayurvedic treatment for renal disorders.

The Takeaway:

Fluid is important for healthy kidneys. A more relevant starting point is the oft-repeated “eight glasses a day” rule, but of course, everyone’s needs are different. So, make sure that you listen to your body, notice your thirst, and try to drink water at regular intervals. You are making a key decision in supporting your kidney health and overall well-being by making drinking water your priority. So, make a toast with a glass of water to those loyal kidneys; they will appreciate it!