Your kidneys are remarkable organs that carry out vital work to keep your body healthy. Despite their important role, many people don’t realize the significant work they do every day.
Your kidneys:
- Produce red blood cells, delivering oxygen throughout the body and supporting energy for muscles and the brain.
- Filter ±180 liters of fluid daily, helping maintain a healthy balance of water, salts and minerals while regulating blood pressure.
- Rid your body of urea, uric acid, toxins and other wastes to keeping your body functioning properly and your skin healthy.
- Activate vitamin D, that helps the body absorb calcium that keeps bones strong.
When kidneys do not function properly, waste can build up in the bodies which can lead to Chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a serious condition affecting around 35.5 million people in the United States that is often overlooked until symptoms appear. CKD is progressive and increases the risk for serious health complications, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.
The good news is that you can care for your kidneys while caring for your whole body. Here are some ways that can help keep your kidneys healthy as well as your whole body.
1. Make healthy food choices.
Choose heart-healthy foods such as: fresh fruits, fresh or frozen vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
2. Be physically active.
Strive for 30 minutes or more of activity on most days. If you are not active now, talk with your health care provider about abut a program right for you.
3. Maintain a healthy weight.
Talk to your health care provider for tips on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
4. Get enough sleep.
Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If you have trouble sleeping, take steps to improve your sleep habits.
5. Quite smoking.
Smoking can damage blood vessels, which decreases the flow of blood in the kidneys. When the kidneys don’t have adequate blood flow, they can’t function at optimal levels. Smoking also increases the risk of high blood pressure as well as the risk of kidney cancer.
6. Limit or avoid alcohol.
Too much alcohol can increase your blood pressure and can lead to weight gain.
7. Manage stress.
Healthy stress management can improve emotional and physical health. Helpful practices include exercise, prayer and time in nature and medication.
8. Use over-the-counter medications wisely.
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen (NSAIDs) can damage the kidneys if taken over long periods.
9. Be cautious with supplements and herbal remedies.
Some herbal extracts may be harmful to your kidneys. Always talk with your doctor before starting supplements.
10. Get regular kidney screenings, if you’re at risk.
If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, screenings for kidney dysfunction should be part of your routine medical care.
It is important to consult your health care provider before beginning a new meal or activity plan based on your own health condition and medications. Be as active as you are able and enjoy the beauty of this new season. Please reach out to VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services with questions and/or support at 856-583-6123.
