Kidneys are critically important organs that require special care and maintenance, particularly if an individual suffers from diabetes, heart disease or kidney disease. Effective health care can be extremely beneficial in the optimal functioning of your kidneys and in the prevention of future diseases. Here are 5 ways in which you can keep your kidneys functioning to the best of their abilities.
1.EAT HEALTHY:
The foods you consume have a direct relation with your physical well being. It’s vital that you choose foods that are wholesome and healthy in order to reverse or prevent a kidney disease. Food is also a prime aspect in keeping your body weight in check. Incorporating wholegrain foods, vegetables and fruits, in taking minimum amounts of animal protein and cutting back on salt and added sugars are going to ensure that your body maximises its potential for good health.
If you are diabetic, have high blood pressure or suffer from heart disease, then it’s essential that you meet with a dietician to establish a meal chart that meets all your necessary requirements.
2.QUIT SMOKING & LIMIT ALCOHOL:
Smoking is known to slow down the blood flow in the kidneys because of possible damage to the blood cells, which impairs the kidneys’ ability to function optimally. It also increases blood pressure, and the risk of kidney cancer. Basically, nothing good possibly occurs from smoking which is why it’s a habit best kicked.
Alcohol consumption should be limited as excess alcohol raises blood pressure while the extra calories can lead to weight gain. A woman should limit consumption to one drink a day, while a man, to two drinks. The equivalent of 1 drink is approximately:
- 355 ml in case of beer
- 150 ml in case of wine
- 45 ml of liquor
Contact your health provider to know the limit of your alcohol consumption if you suffer from a special condition or illness.
3.ESTABLISH AN ACTIVE ROUTINE:
Being fit helps in reducing blood pressure, thereby preventing kidney disease. If your body doesn’t allow exercise or if for some reason you are unable to establish and maintain an exercise routine, then opt to be physically active in other ways. Choose the staircase over an elevator, or take a stroll every day for at least 20 minutes; multiple researches have concluded the immense physical and therapeutic benefits of walking. If you have a desk job, ensure that you stand up or move your hands and feet for at least 5 minutes in every hour. Little acts of constant movement will not only improve your health but also boost your productivity.
4.MANAGE YOUR HEALTH CONDITION:
Be aware of your current health condition and possible future health impediments. If you are diabetic, or suffer from heart disease or kidney disease, it’s crucial that you manage your health condition as effectively as you can. Know the types of herbal and over-the-counter medication that you are susceptible of having a reaction to, these include multivitamins as well. Keep your glucose and blood pressure levels close to your goal. Never miss your prescribed medications, and check your cholesterol levels to ensure that they are under control. Proper care and management is ultimately what will help you in the prevention or treatment of a disease.
5.HAVE REGULAR CHECK-UPS:
It helps to get your kidneys, the diligent little organs that they are, checked for any possible illnesses, especially if you have one or more of the below mentioned ‘high-risk’ factors:
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Family history of kidney disease
It helps to discover your kidney disease in its nascent stage for a more effective treatment. So, if you are at risk, then make kidney function screening a part of your regular check-ups.
Often, other medical conditions play a role in distressing the kidneys, as a result of which they may be put under extreme strain. The best thing you can do to take care of your precious little organs is to avoid the chances of other diseases or illnesses.