Know How Can You Protect Your Kidneys

Dr.Vikas Agarwal, 4 mins read

The kidneys are fist-sized organs at the bottom of your rib cage in front of the vertebrae. They play a variety of roles. Most importantly, they remove waste products, excess water, and other impurities from your blood. The urine is stored within your bladder and then expelled via the urethra.

Furthermore, the kidneys control your body's pH, salt, and electrolyte levels. They also produce hormones to regulate blood pressure and the production of red blood cells. The kidneys are also responsible for activating a type of vitamin D that assists your body in absorbing calcium to build bones and regulate the functioning of your muscles.

Maintaining kidney health is crucial for your overall health and general well-being. When your kidneys are healthy, your body can filter and eliminate waste effectively and also produce hormones to aid your body in functioning optimally.

Here are some helpful tips to help you keep your kidneys in good shape.

Monitor blood pressure

High blood pressure can lead to kidney damage. The effect on your body could be substantial if high blood pressure is associated with other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

An average blood pressure level is around 120/80. Prehypertension can be found between 120/80 and 139/89. Changes in your lifestyle and diet can reduce blood pressure at this stage.

If your blood pressure readings are consistently above 140/90, you could suffer from excessive blood pressure. Talk to your physician about regularly keeping track of your blood pressure, making adjustments to your lifestyle, and perhaps taking medications.

Make sure you control your blood sugar

People living with Diabetes or any other disease that results in excessive blood sugar can suffer from kidney damage. If your body's cells cannot utilize sugar in your bloodstream, your kidneys are compelled to put in extra effort to cleanse your blood. Prolonged Duration of Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to kidney damage.

If you can regulate your blood sugar, it reduces the risk of harm. If the damage is discovered before it is too late, your doctor can take steps to minimize or avoid further damage.

Take plenty of fluids

There's no secret behind the standard recommendation to consume eight glasses of water daily. A regular, consistent intake of water is beneficial for your kidneys.

Water aids in removing toxins and sodium from your kidneys. Try to drink at least 1.5 or 2 liters over a day. The amount of water you require depends on your overall health and lifestyle. Anyone who has had kidney stones should drink more water to prevent stones from forming at a later date.

Stay active and remain fit

Regular exercise lowers the chance of suffering from chronic kidney disease. It also helps lower blood pressure and improves the health of your heart, Both of which are crucial in preventing damage to your kidneys.

There is no need to complete marathons to enjoy the benefits of fitness. Cycling, walking, running, and even dancing suit your overall health. Find a sport that will keep you active and also enjoyable. It'll be much easier to stay with it and get great results.

Keep track of your weight and follow the proper diet

If you are obese or overweight, you are at risk of developing several health conditions that can harm the kidneys.

Concentrate on eating fresh foods that naturally contain low sodium, such as blueberries, cauliflower, fish, whole grain, and much more.

Get screening done

It's essential to be aware of the likelihood of getting kidney disease. It's more likely to happen if you or your family suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney failure.

In these situations, the doctor may recommend specific kidney tests to be included in the routine health examination. The earlier you recognize it, the simpler it is to treat and occasionally stop.

Take note of the quantity of OTC pills you are taking

If you frequently use OTC painkillers, you may be damaging your kidneys. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, including naproxen and ibuprofen, could harm your kidneys if you often take them to treat chronic headaches, pain, or arthritis.

Individuals with no kidney problems who take medicine occasionally are probably in good health. But, if you are using these medications regularly, it could risk your kidneys' health. Consult your physician about safe kidney treatments if you're struggling with discomfort.

Be cautious when using Alcohol

Drinking a glass or two won't cause kidney damage if you're in good health. However, binge consumption (having over four drinks in under two hours) could result in massive, immediate harm and could cause long-term issues.

Alcohol can also make you dehydrated, which could cause kidneys not to function correctly and cause weight gain, liver disease, high blood pressure, and other issues that put more strain on them.

Don't smoke

Smoking damages blood vessels. This causes slower blood circulation throughout the body and into your kidneys.

Smoking is a risk factor for cancer development. If you quit smoking, your risk of getting cancer will decrease. But, it will take years to get back to the level of risk for those who have never smoked.

Eat Healthily

Your kidneys are responsible for processing the food or drink you consume, even things that are bad for you, such as a lot of salt, fat, and sugar. In time, a poor diet can cause hypertension as well as diabetes, obesity, and other diseases that are tough on your kidneys. A healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and a few processed foods.

Avoid herbal supplements

Supplement manufacturers don't need to prove that their products are safe. Certain products can harm your kidneys. They can be particularly harmful in the case of kidney problems because they could increase the severity of the problem or interfere with how certain medications function. Discuss with your physician before taking any herbal supplements.

Conclusion

Your kidneys are crucial for your overall well-being. They play a role in various functions, including processing waste from your body to generating hormones. So, the care of your kidneys is the top priority for your health.

Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is the most effective option to ensure your kidneys remain in good health.

If you suffer from a chronic medical condition that raises your risk of suffering from kidney problems or damage, you must be in close contact with your physician to look for any signs of decline in kidney function.

Also, Read: Can we live a normal life with one kidney? What you need to know