Will Drinking Water Increase My Gfr?

Water ingestion can acutely affect GFR, although not necessarily in the direction one might expect. Using 12 young, healthy individuals as their own controls, Anastasio et al. found increased water intake actually decreases GFR.

How can I increase my GFR naturally?

Avoid processed foods and choose fresh fruits and vegetables instead. It's important to follow a low-salt diet. Salt should be limited especially if you have high blood pressure, protein in your urine, or swelling or difficulty breathing. Eating less than 2000 mg a day of sodium is recommended.

Can lack of water affect GFR?

If volume depletion is severe, GFR falls, but it has been thought to be completely reversible with hydration, unless ischemia results in acute kidney injury (AKI). Nevertheless, AKI is thought be largely reversible. Hence, dehydration has not been classically considered a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD).

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.