The kidneys are vital organs that allow our bodies to process waste and turn it into urine and filter our blood of toxins before it gets back to the heart. The kidneys also maintain our overall fluid balance and create hormones that regulate blood pressure, support bone health and produce red blood cells. To support your kidneys, it’s beneficial to stay plenty hydrated and avoid extra salt in your food. Receiving regular acupuncture treatments can help with overall kidney function and blood flow because acupuncture helps the body function in a parasympathetic state rather than a sympathetic state. If you have any questions on how acupuncture can help your kidney function, please contact Balance Within located in encino and speak to one of our acupuncture specialists.
Diet also plays a very large role in kidney health and function. Below is a simple recipe that is great for regular kidney health. Jam-packed with vitamins and healthy fats and low in sodium from all the fresh fruits and veggies, this smoothie is a kidney-boosting wonder!
Cranberries are often praised for their bladder-healthy benefits. They are also full of Vitamin C and fiber and have anti-inflammatory effects. Walnuts are a great source of healthy fat and also benefit the kidneys, according to traditional Chinese medicine. You can make this smoothie with water or almond milk for an extra calcium boost. Making sure you have enough calcium in your diet can help to prevent kidney stones. Lastly, ginger is always a great smoothie addition, making the flavor more dynamic and contributing to the smoothie’s anti-inflammatory effects.
To make, combine the ingredients in a blender and enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water or almond milk
- 1 ½ ounces baby spinach
- 2 ounces cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 dates
- 1 chopped pear
- ½ inch fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons walnuts
- 1 cup ice
If you have any further questions on how acupuncture or specific diets can help with overall health and kidney function, please do not hesitate to contact our Encino or Sherman Oaks acupuncture office and speak to one of our acupuncture specialists.
