Could a simple glass of celery juice help or harm your kidneys? The growing celery juice movement has made this green drink a morning ritual for many who want better digestion, clearer skin, and more energy. Yet some people have begun to ask about the celery juice side effects kidney connection, wondering whether this trendy drink supports or strains kidney health.

Drinking celery juice delivers hydration, antioxidants, vitamin C, and minerals that may support overall health and reduce inflammation. Still, too much celery juice can raise oxalate and sodium intake, both of which may stress the kidneys. Understanding how celery juice affects kidney function helps you balance its potential benefits with real-world risks.

Celery juice is made by blending or pressing fresh celery stalks and removing most of the pulp. What’s left is a bright green liquid full of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients.

Its rise in popularity began with the celery juice cleanse, a social media trend claiming that drinking celery juice first thing in the morning can “detox” the body and improve gut health. Advocates praise its anti-inflammatory properties, hydration support, and ability to help regulate blood pressure.

A glass of celery juice contains vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and phenolic acids, all linked to heart health and better digestive health. These nutrients, along with the natural antioxidant properties of plant foods, explain why so many people continue to drink celery juice daily.

There is no clinical proof that drinking celery juice improves kidney health or prevents stones. Evidence in people is lacking, and most research focuses on what celery juice contains, not on kidney outcomes.

According to a compositional study of 26 cultivars, celery juice contains varying levels of vitamin C, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, and some juices showed higher laboratory antioxidant capacity than others, but the study did not test kidney function or disease in humans and cannot be used to claim kidney benefits for daily consumers.

In practical terms, consume celery juice as part of a balanced diet and rely on water for hydration, since current scientific evidence does not confirm kidney-specific effects. Keep portions modest to avoid potential celery juice side effects, kidney concerns related to oxalates, and sodium.

High intake of celery juice can raise oxalate exposure, add extra sodium, and trigger digestive upset. These effects can indirectly burden the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney problems.

Celery contains natural compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and phthalides, that may support overall wellness. However, when juiced in large quantities, its oxalate concentration can rise significantly. Excess oxalate can accumulate in the kidneys and may lead to calcium oxalate crystal formation, a known factor in kidney stones and, in severe cases, kidney damage.

A clinical review reported cases of oxalate nephropathy, a form of acute kidney injury, linked to high consumption of oxalate-rich fruit and vegetable juices. Patients with pre-existing kidney disease were particularly at risk, as excessive juicing caused a buildup of oxalate crystals in kidney tissue.

To minimize risk, keep celery juice portions moderate and maintain a balanced diet with plenty of water and low-oxalate foods.

Celery, like many plant foods, contains oxalates. Large servings of juice concentrate those compounds. People with a history of stones, or those advised to follow a low-oxalate plan, should limit portions and track total dietary oxalate. This approach reduces the risk of excessive celery juice contributing to stone formation in sensitive groups.

Celery naturally contains sodium, a mineral that supports fluid balance and nerve function. However, drinking large amounts of celery juice can increase daily sodium intake, which may raise blood pressure or strain the kidneys in salt-sensitive individuals.

Sodium occurs naturally in foods like celery, mushrooms, beets, and milk, and it makes up about 40% of table salt. Keeping celery juice portions moderate helps avoid excess sodium while still gaining its nutritional benefits.

Drinking too much celery juice can upset your stomach. Because juicing removes most of the fiber, it can make digestion less steady and sometimes cause bloating, cramping, or loose stools. When this happens often, it can also lead to dehydration, which may put extra strain on your kidneys.

A 2025 study found that consuming only fruit and vegetable juices for a short period altered the balance of bacteria in the mouth and gut, likely due to the lack of fiber and higher sugar content. This shows that too much juice, including celery juice, can affect gut health and cause discomfort.

To avoid these side effects, start with small amounts of celery juice, eat plenty of fiber-rich foods, and drink enough water to keep your digestion healthy.

A moderate amount of celery juice (roughly equivalent to juicing 2 to 3 celery stalks) is a reasonable and safe portion for most adults. This serving provides hydration and essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium, without adding excessive sodium or oxalate.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, a standard vegetable serving is approximately two to three celery sticks, which aligns with the recommended five daily servings of fruits and vegetables for overall health. Using this guideline, celery juice should count as just one of your vegetable servings, not as a replacement for other plant foods.

For better digestion and blood sugar balance, include whole grains, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods along with your juice. Eating celery stalks in their natural form also supports a healthy digestive system, since the juicing process removes most fiber.

While many people can drink celery juice safely, it’s not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain conditions or sensitivities should proceed with caution or consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into their daily routine.

• People with a history of kidney stones or chronic diseases affecting kidney function

• Those on sodium-restricted diets or managing high blood pressure

• Anyone with allergic reactions to celery, autoimmune diseases, or gut sensitivities

• Individuals taking blood thinners or certain medications that affect blood clotting

• Elderly pre diabetics or anyone monitoring blood glucose and digestive health

If you want the cleansing benefits of celery juice without the sodium or oxalate concerns, try these kidney-friendly drinks instead. They promote hydration, skin health, and overall wellness while supporting kidney function.

• Water with lemon: Keeps you hydrated and helps maintain healthy urine output.

• Cranberry juice: Commonly used to support urinary tract and bladder health when consumed without added sugar.

• Low-oxalate vegetable juices: Carrot or cucumber juice is gentle on the kidneys and supports digestive health.

• Herbal teas: Options like chamomile or ginger tea encourage hydration and may improve digestion.

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Celery juice can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. It provides hydration and nutrients, such as vitamin C and potassium, but drinking too much may increase oxalate and sodium levels, which could stress the kidneys in sensitive individuals. There is no clinical proof that celery juice improves kidney function, so it should not be used as a treatment or detox method.

The safest approach is to enjoy celery juice in small portions (about 2 to 3 celery stalks’ worth) and balance it with whole plant foods, water, and low-oxalate vegetables. Consistent moderation and a well-rounded diet remain the best ways to support kidney and overall health.

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking other medications. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

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