How to keep your kidneys healthy

Diet, Lifestyle, and Kidney Health

 

Diet and Beverage Control

 

๐ Reduce Salt / Sodium Intake
Limit salt or sodium intake to no more than 1 teaspoon per day. Avoid very salty foods, processed foods, processed meats, canned foods, and salty seasonings. Excess salt makes the kidneys work harder and increases the risk of chronic kidney disease.

 

๐ Reduce Sugar Intake
Avoid sugary beverages and foods with high sugar content to help control blood sugar levels, which are a major contributing factor to kidney disease.

 

๐ Choose Healthy Foods
Focus on consuming fresh vegetables and fruits (for individuals with normal kidney function), whole grains, and lean proteins such as fish, chicken breast, egg whites, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

 

๐ Drink Enough Water
Drink about 6-8 glasses of water per day, or an appropriate amount for your body, to help maintain normal bodily functions, filter toxins from the blood, and eliminate waste through urine.
(However, patients with kidney disease who have fluid retention or fluid restrictions should consult their doctor first.)

 

๐ Be Careful with Protein Intake
Avoid consuming excessive protein, as it can accelerate kidney deterioration and lead to waste accumulation. At the same time, protein intake should not be too low, as it may lead to loss of muscle mass.

 

Daily Lifestyle Habits

 

๐ Exercise Regularly
Exercise at least 3 days per week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Gradually increase activity to 30-60 minutes per day, or at least 150 minutes per week.

 

๐ Do Not Smoke
Smoking reduces kidney function and increases the risk of kidney disease.

 

๐ Avoid Unnecessary Use of Painkillers and Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Certain medications may harm the kidneys. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking such medications.

 

Managing Underlying Medical Conditions

 

๐ Control Diseases That Contribute to Kidney Disease
If you have underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or gout, it is important to manage these conditions properly and remain under close medical supervision, as they are major causes of chronic kidney disease.

 

Health Screening

 

๐ Regular Kidney Screening
Individuals at higher risk-such as those with a family history of kidney disease, people over 60 years old, or individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure-should undergo kidney screening at least once a year.

 

Important Precautions

 

๐ For patients with chronic kidney disease, dietary and fluid restrictions may differ from those of healthy individuals. For example, potassium intake from fruits and vegetables and daily fluid intake may need to be carefully controlled. Patients should consult a physician or renal dietitian to receive personalized recommendations that are appropriate for their condition.

 

 

Source : Ladprao General Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team