The kidneys are among the vital organs of our body. These bean-shaped organs are considered to be the body’s waste management system. Therefore, ensuring renal health is one of our paramount responsibilities. Here are 10 tips you can follow to ensure healthy kidneys:
1. Drink enough water every day
One of the best ways to maintain healthy kidneys is to keep yourself hydrated. Adequate fluid intake is a key determinant of kidney health. The body requires water to function well. Water helps the kidneys filter unnecessary waste through urine. To maintain optimum kidney health, you must drink 6 to 8 glasses of water regularly.
2. Healthy foods for kidneys
The type of foods you eat has a high impact on your kidney health. For instance, food items that are rich in certain nutrients will help in the maintenance of healthy kidneys. On the other hand, junk food is bad for the kidneys. For healthy kidneys, you must include more seasonal fruits, cereals, dairy products, nuts, and beans in your daily diet.
3. Engage in physical activities and exercise
Exercise and physical activities are the best ways to ensure healthy kidneys. Exercises like brisk walking, swimming, and cycling can do wonders for these organs. Physical activities can assist in the effective management of diabetes, which is one of the leading causes of kidney damage.
4. Limit salt consumption
While a reasonable level of salt is good for the body, excess salt can lead to kidney stress. Salt is made up of components that can moderate the fluid retention capability of the body. So, in the case of excessive salt intake, the body retains more water, causing blood pressure to increase.
5. Stop drinking alcohol and smoking
Smoking and drinking are the key enemies of healthy kidneys. Smoking makes the blood vessels narrow, which limits the functions of the blood vessels. On the other hand, excessive consumption of alcohol leads to dehydration. This decreases blood flow, which causes damage to the filtering units of the kidneys.
6. Give adequate rest to the body
Proper rest is an essential factor in the preservation of healthy kidneys. When a person is sleeping, the body goes into a restorative state. During this state, the kidneys are able to function up to their full potential. Additionally, this is also the time when the kidneys manage blood pressure levels. So, practice sleeping daily for at least 7 to 8 hours.
7. Keep your weight under control
Overweight and obese people are the most likely demographic to become victims of kidney disease. Additionally, they are also vulnerable to heart and lung disorders. Therefore, weight management is mandatory for healthy kidneys.
8. Take OTC medications in moderation
OTC medications can damage the kidneys in the long term. The ingredients of these medications include aspirin and ibuprofen. These drugs should be consumed under strict moderation of a doctor.
9. Restrict Processed foods
Processed food items are harmful to healthy kidneys. These kinds of foods are high in added sugars, sodium, and phosphorus. These components cause a lot of stress to the kidneys. Additionally, it also disrupts the body’s calcium balance. High sugar intake increases the risk of diabetes.
10. Go through regular checkups
Regular checkups are the best way to preserve healthy kidneys. Frequent screenings and checkups can assist in the early identification of kidney disease. This will lead to early treatment, which ultimately will result in improved health outcomes.
Don’t let your kidneys become vulnerable to disease! Take action now!
Only you can keep your kidneys healthy. You can do so easily by introducing small changes to your daily lifestyle. Try to manage stress and anxiety. If you are diabetic, practice effective management techniques. Healthy kidneys are a privilege- take care of them so that they can take care of you!