One in every three Americans is at risk of developing kidney disease because of high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney failure. Even if you do not fall into any of the risk categories, it is critical to take care of these vital organs.
There are several things you can do at any age to keep your kidneys as healthy as possible: Hydrate, but not excessively. “Contrary to popular belief, no studies have proven that over-hydration is an effective practice in improving kidney function,” nephrologist James Simon, MD says. So, while it’s always a good idea to drink plenty of water, drinking more than the recommended four to six glasses per day is unlikely to benefit your kidneys.
Consume nutritious foods. According to Dr. Simon, most kidney problems are caused by other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. As a result, he recommends that you follow healthy eating habits in order to control your weight and blood pressure. Preventing diabetes and high blood pressure will aid in the preservation of kidney function. Exercise on a regular basis.
Regular physical activity, like eating a well-balanced diet, can help prevent weight gain and high blood pressure. But be careful how much exercise you do, especially if you’re not in shape. “Overexerting yourself when you’re out of shape can lead to serious problems, especially if you’re predisposed to heart disease,” Dr. Simon warns. If you are at high risk for heart disease and do not exercise but want to, consult your doctor before beginning any new workout routine.
