We've all heard the advice to drink plenty of water every day. It's a habit that's been tied to everything from losing weight to having more energy, but what many people don't realize is that staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining kidney health. Dehydration is linked to painful conditions, like kidney stones, as well as chronic kidney disease that can be detrimental to your overall well-being. Understanding the link between hydration and your kidneys can help support overall wellness.

How Does Hydration Affect Your Kidneys? 

Your kidney’s primary purpose is to filter waste from the bloodstream in the form of urine. However, they also help control blood pressure and produce red blood cells and vitamin D. Red blood cells carry oxygen in your blood from the lungs to the rest of your body, and vitamin D is crucial for healthy bones as well as maintaining the appropriate levels of blood acids. 

Water helps the kidneys produce urine, which removes toxins from the blood. If you don't drink enough water, your kidneys can’t filter out as much waste, which can lead to a host of issues, like kidney stones, which are small calcifications made from salt and other minerals that can be intensely painful. 

While factors like medication, chronic medical conditions, and obesity can contribute to kidney stones, concentrated urine can cause the minerals to stick together and form stones. Drinking plenty of water also helps maintain adequate blood flow to the kidneys, ensuring that vital nutrients are delivered to the organ, preventing severe damage. 

How Much Water Should I Drink? 

The typical recommendation is to consume eight, 8-ounce glasses of water every day; however, that recommendation isn't right for everyone. The correct amount of water depends on your sex, weight, age, physical activity, and even where you live. A good rule of thumb is 11.5 cups per day for women, and 13.5 cups for men. However, you should drink more if you have an intense workout, it's especially hot, or you are ill. 

A good gauge of your hydration is your urine color; it should be very pale yellow or clear. If it's dark yellow, drink more water. It's better to sip water throughout the day to maintain steady hydration than to drink large amounts at once. Avoid drinking too many sugary, caffeinated, or carbonated beverages as well, as these can be dehydrating. Alcohol can also cause dehydration, so drink in moderation.

For treatment for kidney stones and other kidney conditions, turn to the specialists at Mt Auburn Nephrology. This Cincinnati-based full-service nephrology clinic treats a wide range of kidney diseases. You can count on them for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Learn about their services online or make an appointment to see a specialist by calling (513) 841-0222.