The kidneys serve two vital roles in the human body. When the kidneys are healthy they filter toxins out of the blood and send the waste out of the body through urine. Keeping your kidneys healthy involves various factors including dieting, exercising and managing medical conditions.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, obesity increases the risk of developing kidney disease. The two major risk factors of developing kidney disease are high blood pressure and diabetes. Obesity increases your risk of both of these conditions. Right now, one in three Americans are at risk of developing kidney disease, but even if you don’t have any risks, it’s important to take care of these vital organs.

Lose Weight

As explained above, obesity increases the likelihood of developing kidney disease. If you have a few extra pounds it’s always a good idea to do what you can to shed them. You don’t even have to lose very much to feel the positive effects. Losing as little as 10-15 pounds can greatly decrease your chance of Type II Diabetes which in turn also decreases your chance of kidney disease.

Keep Hydrated

Aim to drink at least 64 oz of clear fluids a day. Water is best but other liquids will also help keep you hydrated. This is good news if you like to indulge in an occasional soda or sweet tea, but don’t let sugary drinks be the bulk of your liquid intake. It should also be noted that you don’t have to waterlog yourself either. Drinking more water than is necessary isn’t going to hurt you, but it’s not going to automatically give you top performing kidneys either.

Eat Right

Follow healthy moderate eating habits to control weight and blood pressure. Try to avoid foods processed with salt. Too much sodium can make you thirsty, which can lead to swelling and raise your blood pressure. This can damage your kidneys more and make your heart work harder. Focus on eating fruits and non starchy vegetables, and eat smaller portions of meat and dairy.

Quit 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 chances of high blood pressure as well as kidney cancer

Don’t Overdo Over the Counter Medicines.

Common non prescription pills like ibuprofen and naproxen (NSAIDS) can cause kidney damage if taken too often over an extended period of time. If you have healthy kidneys,you can use these medicines occasionally for pain. If you have chronic pain or arthritis, speak to a health care provider about available options for managing pain.

Often kidney problems are the result of underlying medical conditions. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease, talk to a medical care professional about regular kidney screenings.  If you have questions, Elite Care provides ongoing management services for long term illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure right here in Guntown. For more information or to schedule an appointment call us at (662) 348-3342.