During winter, people tend to drink less water. When water intake drops, the kidneys come under pressure and the body becomes dehydrated. To avoid this, many rely on coconut water every day. But few know that coconut water cannot always be trusted blindly when it comes to kidney health. Several foods and drinks that appear harmless can actually damage the kidneys over time.
The kidneys work like a filtration system in the human body. Just as a filter purifies water, the kidneys filter blood throughout the day. They also flush toxins out of the body, maintain mineral balance in the blood and regulate blood pressure. But the kidney’s capacity is limited. Excessive protein, minerals or even water can burden these organs and slowly impair their function, often without early symptoms.
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Doctors explain that protein is essential for bodily functions, including muscle building and strength. But breaking down protein produces a significant amount of waste, and the kidneys must work harder to filter it. When this extra load becomes too much, kidney function gradually declines. That’s why monitoring protein intake is important.
There are also certain vegetables high in oxalates. These oxalates bind with calcium to form crystals, eventually becoming kidney stones. For people with kidney issues, nutritionists advise limiting vegetables like spinach, beetroot and sweet potato.
Many people eat ripe bananas, oranges, kiwi or drink coconut water to keep blood pressure in check. But nutritionists warn that these foods are high in potassium. Kidneys normally regulate potassium levels, but when potassium becomes excessive, the kidneys struggle to manage it. This slows filtration and may eventually lead to irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia.
