Your kidneys play an important role in maintaining your overall health and wellbeing. Without them, your body won't function properly. They serve as the powerhouse behind several critical functions, including;

  • Removal of toxic waste
  • Production of urine
  • Regulation of body water
  • Secretion of hormones
  • Production of blood cells

Taking care of your kidneys is paramount to ensure a healthy life and prevent potential health complications.

Here are 5 key tips for keeping your kidney in top shape:

1. Stay hydrated

Nephrologists (doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases) have emphasized that water is absolutely crucial for maintaining good kidney health.

Insufficient water intake is one of the leading causes of kidney failure. When your body doesn’t have enough water, your kidneys can become dehydrated, leading to a condition known as prerenal azotemia. If left untreated, this condition can progress to kidney failure.

Drinking more water also helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones, which develop when the concentration of urine is high and particles in the urine clump together.

Health professionals recommend drinking at least four-to-six cups of water every day to maintain healthy kidneys.

2. Embrace a healthy diet

The saying “eating good is good business” applies to renal (kidney) health as well.

Kidney problems often stem from underlying conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which can be influenced by poor dietary choices.

Excessive salt consumption, for example, can raise blood pressure and speed up kidney damage. To protect your kidneys and support its functions, you should eat healthier meals and embrace a balanced diet.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking poses a significant risk to kidney health. Studies show that smokers are four times more likely to develop renal failure than non-smokers.

The chemicals present in cigarettes damage the blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the kidneys. A damaged blood vessel won't deliver enough blood to the kidneys and because of this, the kidneys won't perform optimally.

Smoking can also increase the risk of developing kidney cancers and high blood pressure.

4. Reduce alcohol consumption

While small amounts of alcohol may not have serious effects, excessive alcohol intake can harm various organs, including the kidneys.

One of the major functions of the kidney is the filtration of harmful substances from the blood, and alcohol interferes with this process.

Alcohol can also lead to dehydration, which precedes renal failure.

5. Exercise regularly

Surprisingly, exercise plays a role in maintaining renal health.

Engaging in physical activity, whether it’s a high-intensity workout or a short run, has a positive impact on blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood flow, and weight management. All of which are factors that indirectly benefit the kidneys by reducing the risk of associated complications.


Conclusion

By following these 5 tips, you can care for your kidneys better, reduce your risks of kidney diseases, and live a healthier life. However, if you suspect that you have a kidney disease, it's important that you consult with a doctor immediately to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.