Tips for Maintaining Healthy Kidneys

You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your kidneys. That’s great. That most likely means they’re functioning properly. That’s how you want to keep it. However, kidney problems may develop over time, and many people may not notice symptoms until their kidneys are damaged. Kidney problems can also lead to other health complications. 

 

Your kidneys are your personal filtration system. They remove waste from your bloodstream, balance the minerals in your body, and produce urine. Think about what might happen if that system failed. To make sure your kidneys stay healthy and efficient, here are some areas to focus on:

 

Stay Hydrated

Water is essential to all bodily functions, so it’s important to make a habit of having a glass of water several times a day. Don’t overdo it as overhydration may not do your kidneys any good or harm, but you may find yourself spending more time in the bathroom.

 

Get Moving

Get your body moving with some form of exercise. If you already have kidney issues, don’t give up exercise. In fact, you should do the opposite and continue your regular exercise regimen or even find ways to increase it if possible.

 

Keep the Pressure Off

Uncontrolled high blood pressure puts undue stress on the kidneys. If you have concerns about your blood pressure, you should see your doctor right away. 

 

Quit Smoking

You may only think about lung and heart health when it comes to smoking, but smoking can constrict and damage blood vessels, lowering the amount of blood flowing to the kidneys.

Smoking may also affect your blood pressure, which would, in turn, affect your kidney health.

 

Lose Weight or Maintain a Normal Weight

Being overweight or obese can cause many health risks, put stress on your body’s major organs, and lead to further health complications. Make it a point to see your doctor and begin a healthy lifestyle to lose the excess weight. Exercise and eating healthy are the best ways to lose weight, and those are already on this list.

 

Limit Alcohol

Alcohol should only be enjoyed in moderation if at all. Alcohol can affect those things that can harm the kidneys. For example, alcohol can raise blood pressure. It can also lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate stress on the kidneys. 

 

Eat Antioxidants

You’ve already read about the importance of healthy eating to improve kidney function. Add to that the benefits of consuming antioxidants. Antioxidants work to form free radicals that protect the body against chronic inflammation that could restrict blood flow.

 

Manage Diabetes

Millions of people have diabetes. The disease results from the body’s inability to regulate glucose, which can lead to high blood sugar levels. In addition to affecting other organs, uncontrolled diabetes has many damaging effects on kidney function. If you have diabetes, be sure you remain in control of your blood sugar levels. If your doctor has told you that you are at risk of developing diabetes, work with him or her to manage those risks.

 

Visit the Doctor Regularly

Everyone knows that visiting the doctor is important. Yet some of us avoid doctor visits. None of us like the possibility of hearing bad news or that we’re doing something wrong, but it’s imperative to visit your doctor to maintain your health. If you’re at risk or feel you may be experiencing symptoms of kidney problems, see your doctor.