How to Take Better Care of our Kidneys

INTRODUCTION

The Kidneys, a paired organ with a myriad of roles, few of which include filtering the blood and getting rid of waste, pH regulation, blood pressure control, etc. is certainly not one to be taken for granted as these functions are necessary to keep our bodies functioning optimally. However, it is quite unfortunate that the incidence of Chronic Kidney Diseases seems to be on the rise which if put subtly is not good as it shows neglect in the duty of taking care of our kidneys.

This post is curated with the sole purpose of improving our knowledge on how to take better care of our kidneys.

HOW CAN WE TAKE BETTER CARE OF OUR KIDNEYS

1. Take a walk, run if you have to: This is a good place to start as increased physical activity has been shown to keep the blood pressure as well as the blood sugar levels in check which in turn reduces the risk of kidney diseases from either of these factors. It has the additional effect of weight loss if applied appropriately.
2. Eat fruits and vegetables: You are probably doing this but maybe not enough, up your game by taking about 5 portions daily.
3. Don’t forget to include grains such as rice and whole wheat meals as overall the aim is to have a healthy meal.
4. Water! No, I’m not shouting. I’m sure you’ve heard this a million times, so I’ll make it a million and one. With the current weather condition, the chances of becoming dehydrated are twice as much which translates to an increased water requirement. Drink plenty of fluid. Try taking about 8 cups(2L) of water daily.
5. Stop smoking and rethink that next glass of wine or bottle of beer.
6. The blander the better: With the recommended salt intake of 5-6g/daily you’re probably better off without that next pinch of salt.
7. Take your medications as directed: A lot of times we abuse medications, especially pain killers or we take medications without taking into consideration crucial factors like our kidney function at that point in time. Practices such as this need to be worked on if we want to have better kidney health.
8. Fill in the blanks BP -/-mmHg and RBS – mmol/l (RBS- Random blood sugar): This is a reminder to check your blood pressure and blood sugar levels today and always.
9. Regularly check your kidney functions especially if you are diabetic or hypertensive.
10. Keep that doctor’s appointment today.