Doctor's Tips

 There are certain rules to follow in order to keep kidney health intact. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers encourage the following lifestyle habits to ensure healthy kidneys and overall health. 

1. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet. 

        Most kidney problems arise from other medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular problems. Eating a healthy diet will help control weight and blood pressure. Eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium and processed meats could help prevent kidney damage. Foods that are low in sodium, such as blueberries, broccoli, and more are favorable. Preventing hypertension and diabetes will help keep the kidneys functioning correctly. 

2. Remain active

        Keeping an active lifestyle and exercising regularly can help lower the risk of chronic kidney failure. Being physically active will also lower one's blood pressure and can improve heart health. As previously mentioned, cardiovascular health is important as impaired heart health can cause kidney damage. 

3. Quit smoking

        Smoking has the capability to damage the blood vessels thus decreasing the blood flow to the kidneys. Smoking may also increase the risk of high blood pressure and different types of cancers. Along with smoking, it is not recommended to vape as nicotine has harsh effects on the body, is addictive, and has various unknown chemicals. 

4. Hydration

        Consistently drinking water is beneficial for overall health. Drinking around 1.5-2 liters a day is recommended, but there are other factors that could increase or decrease this amount. Drinking water will help clear the toxins and sodium from the kidneys. People who have previously suffered from kidney stones should drink more water to help prevent further kidney stones. 

5. Be aware of the amount of over the counter pills consumed

        Nephrologist James Simon, M.D. states, "Common non-prescription pills like ibuprofen and naproxen (NSAIDs) can cause kidney damage if taken too regularly over a prolonged period". If the patient has arthritis or chronic pain, talking to the doctor about monitoring kidney function is very important. There are alternative methods to dealing with pain that are kidney-safe. 

6. Get regular kidney function testing if at risk. 

        A regular kidney function test is a great way to stay on top of your health, especially if you are in a more "at-risk" category. Being ahead of kidney disease is a great way to control/manage the progression of the disease. Some "at-risk" categories include: being over 60 years old, family history of cardiovascular disease/hypertension, obesity, having cardiovascular disease/hypertension, and people who were born at low birth weight.

Sources: 

Healthline Editorial Team. (2020, May 29). 8 Ways to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
     (J. Choi, Ed.). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/
     kidney-health#stay-active

7 Secrets to Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy. (2019, August 16). Cleveland Clinic.
     https://health.clevelandclinic.org/7-secrets-to-keeping-your-kidneys-healthy-2/

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