3 Signs Your Kidneys are Overwhelmed
By Chris Chlebowski, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine and Natural Kidney Support Expert
In the world of wellness, everyone talks about "gut health" or "liver detoxes." But in my 20 years of clinical practice, I’ve found that we are often ignoring the most important part of the equation: the drainage system.
Think of your kidneys as the main sewage line for your body. If that line is sluggish or backed up, it doesn't matter how many green juices you drink or how clean your diet is—the "waste" has nowhere to go. When the kidneys can't keep up with environmental stressors or microbial waste, the body starts sending out "check engine" lights.
Here are the three most common signs I see that suggest your kidneys are overwhelmed and need support.
1. The "Morning Mirror" Test (Puffiness)
Do you wake up with lingering puffiness under your eyes that takes hours to disappear? Or perhaps you notice your socks leave deep, itchy indentations in your ankles by the end of the day?
This isn't just "getting older." It’s often a sign of fluid imbalance. When your renal filters are sluggish, they struggle to regulate sodium and water effectively. This causes fluid to leak into your soft tissues, leading to visible swelling (edema). (Source: PMID: 36000120)
2. Persistent Low Back "Heaviness"
Most people mistake kidney fatigue for a pulled muscle or "sleeping wrong." But your kidneys aren't located in your lower back—they sit higher up, just tucked under your rib cage on either side of your spine.
If you feel a dull, heavy, or "throbbing" ache in that specific area, it’s rarely a muscle issue. It’s often a sign that the kidneys are physically inflamed or working overtime to process a backup of "sludge" in the system.
3. The "Mid-Afternoon Slump" and Dark Circles
We’ve been told that dark circles under the eyes are just a sign of lack of sleep. But in clinical practice, we often look at the skin under the eyes as a window into the kidneys. (Source: MDPI)
When waste products aren't filtered out efficiently, they circulate longer in your bloodstream. This doesn't just drain your energy and cause that 3 PM crash; it shows up on your face as "shadowy" or dark circles that no amount of concealer or caffeine can fix. It’s not a sleep problem—it’s a filtration problem.
The Path Forward: Prioritize Your Care
If you recognize these "check engine lights" in your own life, the first and most important step is to listen to what your body is telling you.
We strongly recommend that you consult with your primary care physician or a qualified healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your kidney health.
A simple conversation with a professional can provide the clarity and diagnosis you need. Once you have a clear picture of your health, you can then make an informed decision about lifestyle changes or targeted support.
Proactive Support for Long-Term Vitality
For those who are not experiencing acute issues but want to be proactive and preventative, supporting your kidney health is one of the best investments you can make for your future self.
I formulated our Advanced Kidney Support specifically for this purpose—to maintain tissue integrity and keep your body's "drainage system" running efficiently before it becomes overwhelmed. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or simply focused on aging well, keeping your filters clean is a foundational part of staying in the game.
Important Medical Disclaimer: Because everyone’s health situation is unique—especially with complex conditions or medications—we’re not able to say whether this product is appropriate or safe for you personally. Please consult your licensed healthcare provider before using this or any supplement. Our products are dietary supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
About the Author: Dr. Chris Chlebowski, DC, ND Dr. Chris Chlebowski is a dual-licensed naturopathic physician with over 20 years of clinical experience. As a co-founder of Axobotanica, he specializes in botanical medicine and genitourinary health, bridging the gap between clinical research and high-potency natural support.
