The kidneys are remarkably intricate organs that act as the filler system of the body. Besides removing waste and excess fluids, the kidneys eliminate acid and maintain a healthy balance of water, salts, and minerals. Without this balance, your body tissues, including nerves and muscles, won’t function normally. As such, it is best to ensure your kidneys are healthy by preventing or managing health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure that cause kidney damage. You may not entirely prevent chronic kidney disease, but Tsegaw E Egziti M.D recommends taking the following steps to reduce your chances of getting the condition.
Manage underlying health issues
If you have long-term health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, you must manage them carefully. Ensure your blood pressure is within the normal range, and take your prescribed medicine. It is also vital to keep all appointments relating to your condition. The same applies if you have diabetes; control your blood sugar, take prescribed medicines and visit your doctor as you should.
Stop smoking
Smoking or using other tobacco products increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, including strokes or heart attacks. These conditions are associated with a higher risk of chronic kidney disease. Besides reducing your risk of kidney damage, stopping smoking will improve your general health. Quitting may be challenging, especially if you are a heavy smoker. But the good news is that your primary care provider may recommend a support group to help. Some helplines offer advice and encouragement to help you quit smoking.
Make healthy food choices
Choose foods that are good for your overall well-being. Strive for a balanced diet that includes:
- Plenty of fruits and vegetables. Aim for at least five portions every day
- Starchy foods like potatoes, whole grain bread, rice, or pasta
- Dairy or dairy alternative
- Source of proteins like beans or pulses, eggs, fish, or meat
Your specialist may advise you about dietary changes that help with kidney disease. For example, limiting the amount of sodium, phosphate, and added sugars in your diet.
Limit alcohol intake
Drinking too much alcohol causes your blood pressure and cholesterol levels to rise to unhealthy levels. For this reason, it is best to stick to the recommended alcohol limit to reduce your risk of kidney damage. Fourteen units a week is the maximum number of drinks men and women should have. If you drink as much as 14 units a week, spread your drinking over three days or more. Fourteen units are equivalent to 10 small glasses of low-strength wine or six pints of average-strength beer.
Make exercise part of your everyday routine
Regular physical activity helps lower your blood pressure, reducing your risk of developing kidney disease. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity like fast walking or cycling every week. Strength exercises that work all the major muscles, including the back, hips, legs, chest, shoulders, and arms, are also recommended two or more days a week. If you are not active now, consult your healthcare provider about the type and amount of exercise that is right for you.
For further questions about chronic kidney disease management, consult your doctor at Houston Kidney Specialists Center.
