Kidney stones are solid masses developed from crystals. They form in the kidneys from digestive wastes that are not eliminated from the body in the urine. Food wastes and chemical sediment may not fully dissolve if the urine is too concentrated or too acidic. Because it is high in potassium and slightly acidic, lemon juice is capable of altering the chemical makeup of the urine, raising its pH and making it more alkaline, according to "The pH Miracle." Sediment from food waste dissolves more easily in alkaline urine and crystallization is prevented, protecting the kidneys from stone formation.
Step 1
Make a daily lemon juice cocktail to protect your kidneys, recommends Dr. Roger Sur, head of the University of California San Diego Comprehensive Kidney Stone Center. You can use fresh or reconstituted lemon juice; however, fresh lemon juice will supply a greater number of nutrients and vitamins.
Step 2
Squeeze the juice of one or two whole lemons and pour into a 2-qt. container. The total amount should equal 4 oz. Add 1 1/2 qt. fresh water and stir.
Step 3
Divide the juice and drink small amounts throughout the day. Make sure to consume the entire amount daily.
Step 4
Consume your morning portion of lemon water first thing before eating by warming it slightly on the stove. Warm lemon water will not only help protect the kidneys from stones, but also aids elimination first thing in the morning, acting as a gentle diuretic to cleans the urinary tract, according to Jethro Kloss in "Back to Eden."
Step 5
Mix freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl with a spoonful of raw, organic honey. Eat small amounts of this mixture or use as a condiment throughout the day for an added boost for your kidneys. Honey is also high in potassium and helps to alkalize the body, notes "The pH Miracle."
Tips and Warnings
- Do not add salt to your lemon water as it negates the effect of the lemon juice. Raw, organic honey contains all of its natural nutrients and no pesticides or other potentially harmful chemicals that may aggravate your kidneys. Adjust your taste buds so you can drink the lemon water without sweetening to avoid adding excess sugar to your diet. If necessary, you can add extra water to the lemon water mix to make it more palatable as you get used to it. Increase alkaline-forming foods that are high in potassium that go well with lemon. Foods such as cantaloupe, mango and bananas can be served with a lemon-honey topping.
- If you have pain in the kidney region that persists or worsens, consult a health practitioner.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh lemons
- Reconstituted lemon juice
- 2 quart pitcher
- Small bowl
- Raw, organic honey
References
- "Back to Eden"; Jethro Kloss; 2002
- "The pH Miracle"; Dr. Robert O. Young and Shelley Redford Young; 2003
- University of California San Diego Health System: Five Ways to Prevent Kidney Stones: From Lemonade to Surgery
