Drinks that help Plain water Keeping the fancy shenanigans for later, just plain water always tops the list. Water helps in flushing away toxins, lowers the chances of kidney stones and also supports blood flow. It is THE BEST drink when it comes to taking the best care of kidneys. However, this doesn't mean you go on gulping water. Hydration level needs to be based on body, climate and activity level as well. Nonetheless, 3-5 liters of water is a must. Plant-based milk If you would want to drink something that promotes kidney health while appeasing the taste buds, plant based milk options are your best companions especially if you are watching your phosphorus and potassium intake. Low-fat dairy milk It is packed with calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin D, which help in slowing down kidney disease progression in CKD patients. Coffee and green tea (unsweetened and light) This is the perfect news for those who love coffee. Research suggests that moderate intake of black coffee may help in reducing the risk of chronic kidney diseases. Drinks that hurt Sugary sodas and other sweetened drinks Your brain may take it as a reward but it's not the best choice for your body. These drinks contain too much sugar that can derail your health in the long run. Sodas and other sugary drinks are loaded with phosphoric acid which may raise the risk of kidney damage. Energy and sports drinks They might give you a temporary energy boost but they leave your body with greater damage. They are high in additives of all kinds which disrupt fluid balance, raise blood pressure, harm the kidneys and increase toxin load. Alcohol This one is a well-known culprit. Alcohol dehydrates the body and forces your kidneys to work harder. It also strains your blood pressure. Detox teas and cleanses The main function for your kidneys is to naturally cleanse the body, so you don't need any gimmick to support it. Expensive detox drinks do more harm than good in this care. Instead of going for fast cleanse juices, focus on hydration and a balanced diet.