The kidneys are filtration organs that clean the bloodstream by removing wastes and excess fluids. These wastes are stored in the bladder before being released as urine. If the kidneys can't function on their own, a person may need dialysis, which uses a machine to filter and clean the blood. If kidneys are damaged beyond repair, a kidney transplant may be needed. But taking supplements to improve kidney function is one way to reduce, or even prevent, many kidney diseases.
Use kidney herbs. There are many different kinds of herbs. Some are diuretics that help the body to produce more urine. This helps the body flush out waste. Other herbs invigorate sluggish kidneys by increasing blood circulation. Parsley and kelp are both diuretic herbs that cleanse out the kidneys. By cleaning wastes out of the kidneys, the organ is more efficient. Juniper berries help to reduce mucus in the kidneys that cause congestion. Uva ursi stimulates kidney functioning, according to "Herbal Remedies for Kidney Problems" on the Compleat [sic] Mother website.
Take a vitamin B complex supplement. The article "Vitamins and Minerals for Kidney Disease" on the National Kidney Foundation website, states that doctors "will probably want you to take a group of vitamins called B complex." The B-complex vitamins are necessary for good kidney functioning. B vitamins help to create nerve cells and tissue cells.
Take vitamin C. Vitamin C is well-known for treating infections by killing germs. The article "ABCs of Vitamins for Kidney Patients" on the Davita website states that vitamin C keeps the immune system healthy.
Take vitamin D. Vitamin D is also good for kidney patients, reports the Davita website. The vitamin helps the body to absorb calcium, an important mineral. This vitamin should only be taken on the advice of your doctor. Vitamin D is fat-soluble which means that it builds up in the body. Vitamin C and B are both water soluble vitamins.
Take calcium. Taking calcium is important. It helps build strong bones and teeth. But kidney problems may not be able to filter out the mineral phosphorous from food. High levels of phosphorous in the body reduces the body's ability to absorb calcium, reports the article "Vitamins and Minerals in Kidney Disease."