Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy!
Updated: 20 minutes ago
by Tilak Leva
When discussing health, everyone initially thinks about their heart health, brain function, or lung capacity. While these are all very important in their own aspects, we must not forget about other organs which continuously work to keep our bodies functioning. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each one being about the size of a fist, performing one of the most important jobs in the body: filtering out waste. Every single day, your kidneys filter around 50 gallons (180 liters) of fluid, removing waste, toxins, and extra water to maintain the perfect balance that our body relies on. Beyond filtration, kidneys also play an essential role in balancing our electrolytes, regulating our blood pressure, as well as helping producing red blood cells and strong bones.
How can we protect our kidneys? Protecting our kidneys does not require a drastic change in lifestyle, but requires consistency and dedication, including monitoring what we eat and routine checkups. Maintaining a healthy diet can reduce the strain placed on your kidneys and keep them healthy. Some kidney healthy foods recommended by the National Kidney Foundation include vegetables, berries, proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. These provide antioxidants, vitamins, and help ensure our bodies stay nourished. Generally, foods to limit and avoid include those high in sodium and sugar, although a more personalized recommendation from a professional is warranted for more specific diets. Some individuals may also requires to limit their phosphorus and potassium intake.
Regular checkups also help the preventative aspect of our health. Non-invasive tests such as a urinalysis can catch changes in kidney function before symptoms present. Blood tests can also help spot abnormal blood sugar levels or cholesterol levels, which can negatively impact our kidneys. These checkups can give us insights into our current lifestyle and can guide the decisions we make to incorporate healthy, lifestyle modifications to prevent further complications.
Your kidneys work tirelessly around the clock to protect you. By making more mindful decisions today, you can protect your kidneys right back and reap the long-term benefits of a healthier lifestyle!
NOTE: This post is only to inform and does not serves as replacement to advices from medical professionals.
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