Health guidance on kidney hydration and menstrual hygiene

Health experts are addressing common misconceptions regarding kidney health and menstrual hygiene during summer activities.

Regarding kidney function, experts warn that drinking a glass of water before bed cannot prevent chronic kidney disease or repair existing damage. While hydration is essential for kidney function and preventing acute damage from dehydration, there is no evidence that drinking water specifically before sleep offers unique protection. Furthermore, claims that a mixture of water, baking soda, and salt can 'detox' or 'cleanse' the kidneys are unsupported by medical evidence. In certain medical cases, sodium bicarbonate is used to treat acidosis, but it is not a general detox method.

For menstrual hygiene during swimming, experts suggest that tampons are a practical option, though they require careful management. It is recommended to insert a fresh, dry tampon before entering the water. Because tampons absorb both menstrual blood and water, they should be changed regularly. According to the Cleveland Clinic, tampons should generally be changed every four to six hours and should not be left in for more than eight hours to mitigate risks.