Top 12 Best Supplements for Kidney Health

The kidneys, often unsung heroes of the human body, perform critical functions that help maintain our overall health. However, factors such as diet, lifestyle, and genetics can affect their health. That’s where supplements come in. Here are the top 12 best supplements for kidney health.

Supplements for Kidney Health

1. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in kidney health. It helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can harm your kidneys. ALA also supports blood sugar regulation, which is essential for overall kidney function.

How to take it: Take ALA supplements as directed by the manufacturer. Typically, a daily dose of 300–600 mg is recommended.

Where to find it: ALA supplements are widely available online and in health food stores. You can also check your local Walmart for options.

2. Probiotics

Gut health and kidney health are closely linked. Probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, which indirectly benefits your kidneys. A balanced gut flora reduces inflammation and supports immune function, ultimately benefiting your renal system.

How to take them: Choose a high-quality probiotic supplement containing various strains (such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium). Follow the recommended dosage on the product label.

Where to find them: Look for probiotic supplements at health stores, pharmacies, and major retailers like Walmart.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with kidney disease. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels can help prevent kidney damage and improve overall health. Spend some time in the sun or consider a vitamin D supplement.

How to take it: Get natural sunlight exposure or take vitamin D3 supplements (usually 1000–2000 IU per day). Consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.

Where to find it: Sun exposure is the natural source of vitamin D. If you prefer supplements, check your local pharmacy or Walmart.

4. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ10 is essential for cellular energy production. It supports healthy blood flow to the kidneys and helps maintain optimal function. CoQ10 supplements can be beneficial, especially if you’re at risk of kidney issues.

How to take it: Take CoQ10 supplements with meals, typically in doses of 100–200 mg per day.

Where to find it: CoQ10 is available in most health food stores and online retailers, including Walmart.

5. Cordyceps

Cordyceps is a medicinal mushroom with potent antioxidant properties. It supports kidney health by reducing inflammation and enhancing immune function. Consider adding cordyceps to your daily routine.

How to take it: Look for cordyceps capsules or powder. Follow the recommended dosage on the product packaging.

Where to find it: Look for cordyceps supplements at specialty health stores or online platforms like Walmart.

6. Cranberry Extract

Cranberry extract is well-known for its role in urinary tract health. It helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can impact kidney function. Regular consumption of cranberry extract may reduce the risk of UTIs.

How to take it: Choose cranberry extract capsules or unsweetened juice. Follow the recommended dosage instructions.

Where to find it: Cranberry extract supplements are commonly available at pharmacies, health food stores, and large retailers like Walmart.

7. Nettle Leaf

Nettle leaf has diuretic properties, promoting urine flow and helping flush out toxins from the kidneys. It also contains antioxidants that protect against kidney damage.

How to take it: Nettle leaf tea or nettle leaf supplements are available. Consult product labels for dosing instructions.

Where to find it: Nettle leaf supplements can be found at health food stores or ordered online from reputable retailers like Walmart.

8. Astragalus Root

Astragalus root has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to support kidney health. It enhances immune function and reduces inflammation, benefiting overall renal function.

How to take it: Astragalus root supplements are available as capsules or extracts. Follow recommended dosages provided by the manufacturer.

Where to find it: Specialty herbal stores or online platforms like Walmart offer astragalus root supplements.

9. B Vitamins

B vitamins play a vital role in maintaining healthy kidneys. Vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid support red blood cell production and prevent anemia-related kidney issues.

How to take them: Consider a B-complex supplement containing all essential B vitamins (follow label instructions).

Where to find them: Most pharmacies and health food stores carry B vitamin supplements, including Walmart.

10. Andrographis

Andrographis is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in Asia. It is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects. It can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are beneficial for kidney health.

How to take it: Andrographis supplements are typically taken as directed by the manufacturer. A common dosage regimen is a 300 mg tablet, four times daily, for the first few days of symptoms.

Where to find it: Andrographis supplements can be purchased online or over the counter at natural remedy stores, as a concentrated liquid (tincture), or as dosed tablets.

11. Moringa

Moringa is a plant that is native to parts of Africa and Asia. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties which may help reduce inflammation in the kidneys and improve overall kidney function.

How to take it: Moringa can be taken in supplement form or the powder can be added to your smoothies, teas, and baking recipes. You can also take it as a capsule. Always follow the recommended dosage on the product label.

Where to find it: Moringa supplements can be found at health stores, pharmacies, and major retailers like Walmart.

12. Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in many aspects of health, including immune function, cell growth, and wound healing. It’s also important for kidney health as it helps to stabilize blood sugar levels.

How to take it: Zinc supplements are most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. However, if zinc supplements cause stomach upset, they may be taken with a meal.

Where to find it: Zinc supplements can be found in most health food stores, online retailers, and large retailers like Walmart.

Conclusion

Some of the best supplements for kidney health include Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), probiotics, and a range of essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. They can help you determine which supplements are right for you based on your health needs. Here’s to taking charge of your kidney health and living life to the fullest!

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Sources

Renal-Protective Roles of Lipoic Acid in Kidney Disease. www.mdpi.com, https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/7/1732
The Link Between Chronic Kidney Disease and Vitamin D Levels. share.upmc.com, https://share.upmc.com/2022/02/vitamin-d-deficiency-kidney-disease/
Molecular mechanisms underlying the renal protective effects of coenzyme Q10 in acute kidney injury. cmbl.biomedcentral.com, https://cmbl.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s11658-022-00361-5
Cranberries – potential benefits in patients with chronic kidney disease. pubs.rsc.org, https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2019/fo/c9fo00375d