Kidney function test

Question

Lately, I’ve been feeling more tired than usual, and my body feels swollen, especially around my ankles and hands. At first, I thought maybe it was just because of too much salt or not drinking enough water, but then I also noticed that my urine sometimes looks darker than normal. A few days ago, I even had a weird metallic taste in my mouth, and my appetite has been all over the place.

I decided to get a kidney function test done, just to check if everything was okay. The results showed that my creatinine and urea levels were slightly higher than the normal range. The doctor said it’s nothing serious right now, but I should monitor my kidneys and drink more water. But I’m worried—does this mean my kidneys are starting to weaken? Can Ayurveda help improve kidney function naturally before it gets worse?

I have never had any major health issues before, and I don’t want to wait until things get serious. Are there Ayurvedic herbs or treatments that can help bring my kidney function test results back to normal? Also, I read that certain foods can put pressure on the kidneys. Should I be avoiding specific things in my diet?

One more thing—I take painkillers occasionally for headaches. Could that be affecting my kidneys? If so, are there any Ayurvedic alternatives to pain relief that won’t harm kidney function?

I really want to make sure my kidneys stay healthy and strong. Would love to hear if Ayurveda has solutions that can actually improve kidney function test results and prevent future problems.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Ayurveda views kidney health as a balance of Pitta and Kapha, with improper digestion and toxin buildup (Ama) playing a key role in kidney dysfunction. To naturally improve kidney function, Ayurveda recommends herbs like Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), and Varun (Crataeva nurvala), which help detoxify the kidneys, improve urine flow, and reduce swelling. Coriander and barley water are also excellent for flushing out excess fluids and maintaining electrolyte balance.

Diet is crucial in protecting kidney health. Avoid high-sodium, processed, and protein-heavy foods, as they can strain the kidneys. Instead, focus on easily digestible meals like moong dal soup, cooked vegetables, and plenty of hydrating fluids like coconut water and cumin-infused water. Reducing dairy, caffeine, and painkillers can also relieve stress on the kidneys. If you need an alternative for pain relief, turmeric and ginger tea are great anti-inflammatory options.

Since symptoms like swelling, metallic taste, and fatigue suggest possible toxin accumulation, mild detoxification can be helpful. Ayurveda suggests Triphala, aloe vera juice, and light fasting to support kidney function and improve digestion. Regular yoga and pranayama (breathing exercises), especially Bhujangasana and Mandukasana, can improve circulation to the kidneys. With the right Ayurvedic approach, kidney health can be restored naturally before serious issues develop.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, kidney health is closely linked to the balance of the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and ensuring proper digestion and elimination. To support your kidneys, herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Bhumi Amla are commonly used to strengthen kidney function and help in detoxification. These herbs work to improve kidney filtration and reduce swelling. Additionally, consuming a diet that supports kidney health, such as avoiding excessive salt, high-protein foods, and processed items, is crucial. Hydration is important, but it’s best to drink water in moderation rather than overloading the kidneys. For pain relief, you can consider Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha or Triphala, which have anti-inflammatory and gentle analgesic properties, without putting stress on the kidneys. Avoiding painkillers, particularly NSAIDs, is important as they can cause kidney damage over time. Incorporating practices like regular exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet can improve overall kidney health and help normalize your test results. If you’re concerned about your kidney function, it’s important to work with both your healthcare provider and an Ayurvedic practitioner to address any imbalances early.

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