Your kidneys are crucial organs responsible for producing waste (urine), among other things. Here’s a look at why it matters to keep your kidneys healthy, and four excellent supplements which serve this purpose.
The Roles of Healthy Kidneys
The human body has two kidneys. Kidneys are small organs, roughly the size of your fist and which sit on both sides of the spine just below the rib cage. The primary function of the kidneys is to purify the blood and produce urine. Arteries carry blood into the kidneys, where it is purified from wastes and toxins. The waste is then distributed to the bladder in the form of urine, while purified blood re-enters the bloodstream via the veins.
Kidneys work rigorously, filtering approximately 200 quarts of blood every 24 hours. They also produce hormones that regulate the production of red blood cells and blood pressure, as well as produce certain vitamins.
Preserving kidney health can prevent chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a condition where the kidneys are damaged over time and lose the ability to properly filter blood. This can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. Those with diabetes or high blood pressure are at increased risk for CKD. CKD and heart disease frequently go hand in hand, with one of these conditions preceding the other.
Healthy food choices, maintaining healthy weight, and treating diabetes or heart-related conditions can help manage and prevent CKD. A separate potential concern is that of kidney stones, which can form due to a variety of factors.
Four Supplements for Kidney Health
Certain supplements have properties which support the kidneys. One or more of these can be taken to support kidney health, and they aid in management and/or prevention of chronic kidney disease:
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), an antioxidant substance produced in the body, is available as a dietary supplement. ALA benefits the kidneys by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress within them. It can also reduce the risk of kidney stones. Reducing inflammation helps the kidneys function better. Furthermore, reducing oxidative stress reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, which often coincides with kidney disease.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an enzyme that the body needs for energy, and which kidney cells need in order to filter toxins and other substances. CoQ10 concentrations have been shown to decrease in those with CKD. For this reason, an oral CoQ10 supplement can be very helpful. Studies show that taking CoQ10 reduced unhealthy cholesterol levels in CKD patients. Other research suggests it can improve endothelial function in blood vessels, thereby improving cardiovascular health in those with CKD.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant compound that supports kidney health, and it improves kidney function in those who already have chronic kidney disease. An analysis of multiple studies has shown that NAC improves certain quantifiable markers of kidney function, as well as decreases inflammatory markers within the kidneys. NAC can also reduce the risk of cardiovascular events that coincide with CKD. The standard daily dosage is 600 or 1,200 mg of NAC taken twice daily.
Resveratrol is a polyphenol that occurs naturally in some fruits, and is available in concentrated form as an oral supplement. Among other benefits, resveratrol is known for its kidney-protective properties. Research shows that resveratrol could prevent certain types of kidney damage, including drug-induced kidney damage. Other research shows that resveratrol could mitigate the inflammation and oxidative damage associated with CKD.
For those with chronic kidney disease, and anyone actually, it is crucial to be conscientious of your kidney health. Consider these supplements mentioned above. Some of these can interact with certain medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before taking one of these.