How often do you think about the health of your kidneys? To avoid chronic complications such as chronic kidney disease, simple steps are required to promote your kidneys’ efficient work and stay in great shape. The key to maintaining healthy kidneys starts with a healthy body. When your overall well-being thrives, your kidneys can perform their best.But why is kidney health so important, and what exactly do your kidneys do?
Your kidneys are crucial for:
Filtering waste and removing drugs from your system.
Balancing body fluids.
Producing hormones that help regulate blood pressure.
Activating vitamin D, which supports strong bones.
Managing red blood cell production.
Kidney Diseases to Watch For
Unfortunately, several conditions can harm your kidneys, making it harder for them to do their job. Some of the most common kidney-related problems include:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Kidney stones
Glomerulonephritis
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Did you know that 1 in 3 Americans is at risk for kidney disease? The risk goes up if you have high blood pressure or diabetes. So, even if you’re feeling great now, taking care of your kidneys daily is critical to long-term health.
How to Support Your Kidney Health
Fortunately, there are plenty of proactive steps to protect your kidneys. Here’s how:
1. Stay Hydrated.
Water is your kidneys’ best friend. Drinking fluids daily helps prevent dehydration, which can lead to kidney stones or other issues. Aim to sip water throughout the day—your urine should be pale yellow. For women, try to drink around eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, and for men, about ten.
2. Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet.
Stock your kitchen with foods that support kidney health. The best foods you need to consume more of are frozen fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like fish and chicken, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are great options. Avoid processed foods high in sodium, such as canned goods, boxed meals, and fast food. Including fruits and veggies with every meal is a simple way to give your kidneys a helping hand.
3. Exercise Regularly.
Staying active is a great way to strive to reach and maintain a healthy body weight, supporting kidney functioning. Consistent physical activity sets the stage for lowering your risk for high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which can harm your kidneys. Exercise boosts circulation, strengthens muscles, lowers cholesterol, and improves sleep.
4. Be Cautious with Supplements.
It’s tempting to reach for supplements, but some can be harmful to your kidneys, especially if taken in large amounts or without medical supervision. Herbal supplements like ginkgo or juniper berries aren’t regulated, meaning their safety is uncertain. Ask your doctor’s opinion before starting new supplements, especially if you have kidney concerns.
5. Quit Smoking.
Smoking harms your kidneys by damaging blood vessels, reducing blood flow to these vital organs. It also increases your risk of high blood pressure and kidney cancer. By quitting smoking, you’ll give your kidneys a better chance of staying healthy.
6. Limit Over-the-Counter Medications.
If you regularly take pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen, it’s essential to be mindful of your kidney health. Occasional use is generally safe for healthy kidneys, but long-term use or overuse can cause damage, especially if you already have kidney issues. Talk to your doctor if you need these medications frequently.
7. Get Regular Kidney Function Tests.
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, it’s essential to have your kidney function checked regularly. Early detection of kidney problems can help slow down damage and keep your kidneys working longer.Taking care of your kidneys doesn’t have to be complicated. A few lifestyle changes can keep these essential organs working well for yearsDr. David Samadiis the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board-certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.
