Smart Hydration Tips for Dialysis Patients: What to Drink and Avoid
- Rapidcare
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 30
Living with Renal Failure and not sure what's safe to drink? Every sip matters when your kidneys aren't working at full strength. Some drinks can soothe your bladder and support your kidney function - others can make things worse.
This guide breaks it all down simply: which drinks to trust, which to avoid, and how to stay hydrated in a way that supports your health, not stresses it.
Why Hydration Choices Matter When You're on Dialysis
When your kidneys are struggling, they can't filter waste or balance fluids as efficiently. That makes smart hydration even more important.
The right drinks can help:
Avoid bladder irritation
Support your remaining kidney function
Prevent dehydration (without fluid overload)
Improve your daily comfort and quality of life
But not all fluids are equal. Let's look at what's safe and what to steer clear of.
Kidney-Friendly Drinks for Dialysis and Better Hydration
These are gentle, hydrating options that are usually safe for people with renal failure (unless your doctor has given you specific fluid limits):
Water - Plain, still water is best. Aim for around 1.5 to 2 litres a day unless advised otherwise.
Milk - A good source of calcium and generally bladder-friendly. Choose low-fat if you're managing potassium or phosphorus.
Herbal Tea (non-citrus) - Peppermint or chamomile are great caffeine-free choices.
Decaf tea and coffee - Less irritating to the bladder than regular versions.
Apple, pear, or grape juice - These non-citrus juices are kinder on the kidneys and bladder.
Summer fruit squash (like Red Vimto) - Light, fruity, and gentle, as long as it's low in sugar.
Tip: Most people with kidney issues need around 4-6 mugs or 3-4 pints a day - always follow your healthcare provider's advice.
Drinks to Avoid When on Dialysis: Hydration Mistakes to Watch For
Some drinks can act as diuretics, irritants, or just overload your kidneys with sugar, acid, or caffeine. These can lead to bladder discomfort, urgency, or make fluid management more difficult.
Here's what to watch out for:
Regular tea and coffee - High in caffeine, which can irritate the bladder and act as a diuretic.
Green Tea - Often seen as healthy, but it can surprisingly high in caffeine.
Hot Chocolate - A double dose of caffeine and sugar.
Blackcurrant squash (e.g. Ribena, Purple Vimto) - High in sugar and acidity.
Citrus juices (orange, lemon, grapefruit) - Can trigger bladder spasms.
Tomato juice - Acidic and often uncomfortable for sensitive bladders.
Cola and frizzy drinks - Loaded with sugar, caffeine, and carbonation - a triple irritant.
Alcohol - Dehydrates and overstimulates the bladder and kidneys.
Avoiding these can help reduce symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, or irritation, - and lighten the load on your kidneys.
Your hydration is part of the bigger picture.
Managing renal failure isn't just about what you drink - it's also about recognising early signs and protecting your kidney health in the long run. If you're unsure where you stand, learning about the stages of chronic kidney disease can help you understand your condition better and take proactive steps.
Pairing bladder-friendly drinks with a balanced, kidney-conscious diet can make a big difference in your overall well-being.
Benefits include:
Less toxin build-up in your body
Better blood pressure control
Slower kidney function decline
More energy for daily life
Always talk to your GP or renal dietician before changing your fluid or food intake, especially if you're on dialysis or managing other health concerns.
How Rapidcare helps make daily kidney care easier
Managing renal failure comes with enough to think about - getting your prescriptions shouldn't be one of them. That's where we come in.
When you register with Rapidcare, you'll receive:
Free NHS prescription delivery in discreet, fully tracked packaging
Thoughtful extras like dry wipes and a wash bag with your first order
Friendly, helpful updates so you always know what's on the way
It's reliable support that fits around your life, so you can stay focused on feeling your best.
Frequently Asked Questions: About Hydration for Dialysis and Renal Failure
1. Which drink is good for kidney failure?
Plain water, low-fat milk, and non-citrus juices like apple or grape are safe hydration choices for people with renal failure or on dialysis.
2. What's the worst drink for your kidneys?
Fizzy drinks, alcohol, and high-caffeine beverages like cola and energy drinks are among the worst choices for kidney health during renal failure or dialysis.
3. What's the best drink to flush your kidneys?
While the kidneys can’t be “flushed” once they're failing, drinking water and herbal teas helps support healthy hydration during dialysis.
4. Can you drink if your kidneys are failing?
Yes, but your fluid intake must be controlled. The right hydration helps manage symptoms and maintain comfort in renal failure and dialysis.
5. What drinks are bad for kidneys?
Citrus juices, alcohol, regular tea or coffee, and sugary sodas can worsen bladder irritation and harm kidney health in renal failure.
