For the most part, when we try to keep healthy, we have an “overall” outlook on maintaining our physical wellbeing, rather than looking at different parts of the body and how they function.
Keeping your kidneys in shape is vital for reducing the risk of chronic disease. Check out some of our top tips for keeping your kidney healthy.
What are the kidneys?
The kidneys are vital organs that filter toxins and other waste products from your blood, produce urine and hormones, and maintain levels of minerals in your bloodstream. The kidneys filter roughly 200 litres of blood everyday, removing toxins, wastes and water from your body in the process. So, how can you keep them performing at their best?
Hydration is key
It is a great idea to drink two to three litres of water every day to stay in good health. Maintaining a healthy intake of fluids will assist the kidneys in clearing toxins from the body, and is believed to significantly reduce the risk of kidney disease.
Monitor blood pressure
While high blood pressure is often associated with heart disease and stroke, it is also the most common cause of kidney damage. It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly by your doctor to help protect your kidneys. If you monitor blood pressure at home and notice any obscure changes, be sure to go to a doctor straight away.
Keep active
Keeping fit by exercising is a great way to reduce blood pressure and therefore reduces the risk of kidney disease. It is believed that obesity is closely linked to kidney-related problems too, so if you are overweight, speak to a doctor about adjusting your exercise levels to improve your kidney health.
Eat a balanced diet
As you are probably well aware, your diet impacts your entire body. As such, eating healthy foods can help prevent high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and other conditions associated with kidney disease. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and reduce your salt intake. It is also a good idea to avoid heavily processed foods, as well as too much takeaway.
Avoid smoking
Smoking has been connected to a number of urological issues and in particular, can have a devastating impact on your kidney health. Smoking works to damage blood vessels, decrease blood flow in the kidneys and limit their function. Quitting smoking is always the healthiest option.
Limit your alcohol intake
Excess consumption of alcohol can contribute to high blood pressure, which can be bad for your kidney health. As a general rule of thumb, limit your alcohol intake to a maximum of two standard drinks per day for men and one for women. Furthermore, avoid regular binge-drinking.
Monitor your medications
There are a number of over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen which can cause kidney damage if taken too regularly over a long period of time. If you are required to take medication to manage chronic pain or other health conditions, be sure to ask your doctor about their impact on kidney health.
It is important to talk to a trusted professional when it comes to your health. If you have any questions about kidney health, or would like to book an appointment, please feel free to contact or call Dr Arianayagam’s office on 1300 307 990 and his staff will be able to assist.
Urology Specialist
Dr. Mohan Arianayagam
(ABN) 12 345 678 910
Contact Us
Ph: 1300 307 990
Fax: 02 8078 6092
Email:
Mailing Address:
Suite 414, 29-31 Lexington Drive, Bella Vista NSW 2159
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