Many people tend to overlook the importance of keeping the kidneys healthy. Perhaps it’s because they don’t fully understand the role the kidneys play in a person’s overall health, or because most kidney-related health issues tend to develop quietly. For whatever reason, unlike other organs, most people don’t seem to spend much time thinking about their kidneys at all.
But there’s value in doing so. Good kidney health can lead to increased energy levels, improved blood pressure, and a lower risk of experiencing painful kidney stones. What’s more, supporting your kidneys’ health is relatively straightforward. By adopting a few lifestyle shifts, you can keep your kidneys happy and healthy.
Eat Plenty of Fruit and Veg
Fruit and vegetables have been shown to lower the risk of kidney disease (as well as their many other benefits). While it can seem a little difficult to eat five portions of fruits and vegetables a day, it becomes easier when you realise that there are plenty of different ways to get your intake. Fresh, canned, and frozen fruit and veg are just fine. Add a portion to each meal and make a smoothie once a day, and you’ll be mostly there.
Stay Hydrated
It can be nice to drink a flavored drink, but from your body’s perspective, there’s nothing better than water. Not only can it give you more energy and enhance the appearance of your skin, but it can also offer significant benefits to your kidneys. Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to prevent kidney stones, with many patients who seek kidney stone treatment options having to do so because of poor water intake. Staying well hydrated can also prevent urinary tract infections from developing.
Aim to drink 6 – 8 glasses of water a day. If you really don’t like the taste of plain water, then add lemon/cucumber to give it some taste.
Be Wary of Painkillers
Taking ibuprofen for the occasional headache is fine, but using it on a regular basis is best avoided. Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter painkillers can damage the kidneys over time. If you find that you need to take painkillers more regularly for whatever reason, then it’s recommended to speak to a medical professional for advice on how you can protect your kidneys.
Stay Away From Smoking and Alcohol
Did you know that smokers are four times as likely to experience kidney failure? Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can also damage the kidneys by raising cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
The occasional alcoholic drink won’t do much damage, provided it’s within the recommended guidelines of consumption. Given the negative effects of smoking (they stretch far beyond damage to the kidneys), it’s best to quit entirely.
Get Moving
Finally, as it does with most things, getting enough exercise can provide benefits to your kidney health. Getting moving helps to support your body’s overall health, increasing the chances that your kidneys can work as intended. Even relatively mild forms of exercise, such as walking or gardening, can make a difference.
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