9 Surprising Tips for Ultimate Renal Care You Need to Know!

9 Surprising Kidney Care Tips You Should Know

Taking care of your kidneys by knowing the correct ways can help you keep the organ in good health and prevent small to big kidney disorders, from kidney stones to malfunctioning or cancer. The following are some surprising ways to take care of your kidneys that you might not know:

Stay Hydrated But Not Overhydrated

You might have heard the advice to drink plenty of water from your parents or healthcare providers. But did you know that overhydration can instead stress your kidneys? While staying hydrated is crucial to ensure your kidneys function smoothly, drinking excessive amounts of water can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes, which might cause kidney problems. 

So, you should aim to drink about 8 glasses of water daily. Also, it’s advisable to adjust your water intake based on your activity level, climate, and health needs. You should listen to your body, as thirst is often the best guide.

Avoid Overuse of Medications

Many times, people take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage their pain without consulting their doctor. Little do they know that certain over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), when taken frequently or in large doses, can harm their kidneys. These medications can reduce blood flow to your kidneys, potentially leading to chronic kidney damage. 

If you rely on pain relievers, it’s recommended to consult a renal nephrology specialist about what effects they can have on your kidneys. These professionals can suggest alternatives or advise you to use them sparingly to protect your kidney health.

Don’t Eat Too Much Salt

Salt is a common ingredient in many foods; thus, almost everyone consumes more than the recommended amount of salt daily. Many people are unaware that too much salt can strain their kidneys. High salt intake can lead to high blood pressure or hypertension, which is a major risk factor for kidney problems. 

To safeguard your kidneys, you should limit your salt intake. How can you do it? You can do it by avoiding processed and packaged foods, as they often contain hidden salts. Also, you can opt for natural seasonings like herbs and spices to add flavour to your food items without overloading sodium.

• Eat Kidney-Friendly Foods

Your diet plays a significant role in preserving your kidney health. Regularly consuming foods full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals but low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium can ensure smooth kidney function and optimal health. 

This table outlines some kidney-friendly foods you should incorporate in your diet: 

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can raise the risk of kidney problems by contributing to conditions like diabetes and hypertension that strain the kidneys. Regular exercise and a balanced, nutritious diet can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, essential for protecting your kidneys. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve your kidney health and blood circulation.

Avoid Excessive Protein Intake

While protein is essential for your body and maintaining ideal weight, consuming too much can overburden your kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney damage. Excessive protein intake can be especially dangerous for people with preexisting kidney conditions. 

You should always have protein in a balanced amount. Consider consulting your kidney nephrology specialist about foods that have protein and are good for your kidneys.

Control Your Blood Sugar

You might not know, but diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. Increased blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, impairing their ability to function properly. 

If you are diabetic, you should consider managing your blood sugar levels through a balanced diet, moderate to intense exercise, and prescribed medications. In addition, regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and work closely with your healthcare provider to prevent kidney damage.

Manage Stress

Taking care of your mental health is another important renal care tip you shouldn’t avoid. Long-lasting or frequent stress can negatively impact your kidney health and functioning. Regular stressors can increase your blood pressure, which can lead to kidney damage over time. 

You should look for healthy ways to manage stress, such as practising mindfulness, exercising, spending time with your loved ones, or engaging in hobbies. Doing these activities can help maintain your mental and renal well-being.

Quit Smoking

Ot only your kidneys, but also smoking is detrimental to almost every organ in your body. Regularly engaging in both first-hand and second-hand smoking can reduce blood flow to your kidneys, decreasing their ability to function efficiently. Also, excessive smoking can raise the risk of high blood pressure and kidney cancer. 

So, quitting smoking is the best thing you can do to protect your kidneys.

All-in-All

Your kidneys work tirelessly to maintain your overall health. So, taking care of them must be your priority. By following these renal care tips proactively and making smart, healthy lifestyle choices, you can preserve your kidneys’ health and functioning.

Are you looking for a professional kidney care consultation? Medanta renal nephrology experts are here to guide you!