Prevention is better than cure. This is a saying that’s been used for so long that perhaps it has lost its significance. Human body is a very sophisticated machine. One small issue in one part of the body can have its effect on other parts. Thus there is no option but to take care of oneself holistically in order to stay in good health.

Kidneys are one such most important organ in the human body. They are responsible for removing waste from the body and their functioning contributes to the production of urine. Human body has two kidneys, one on the right side and one on the left side both attached to a ureter, a tube that carries excreted urine to the bladder. Apart from removal of toxins, kidneys also control volume of various body fluids, fluid osmolality, acid–base balance, various electrolyte concentrations etc.  Ensuring that the kidneys are in good health will help in staying in good health overall.

Things you can do to have a healthy kidney

Drink plenty of water

Drinking at least 8 glasses of water everyday helps you stay hydrated. Water helps in removing sodium and toxins from the body. Water helps people with kidney stones. Consuming enough water also helps prevent Urinary Tract Infection. Dehydration can be harmful for the kidneys and therefore trying to consume at least 2 litres of water is good.

Consume less salt

Salt consumption and its impact on blood pressure is very well known. WHO recommends that adults consume less than 5 g (just under a teaspoon) of salt per day. Salt consumption varies depending on different cultures and food habits. But limiting sodium and meeting the potassium requirements of the body helps in maintaining blood pressure thereby keeps the kidneys safe

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Diabetes impacts kidney health immensely. It causes injury to the small blood vessels in the body. When the blood vessels in the kidneys are injured, your kidneys cannot function well & will start retaining more water and salt than it should, which can result in weight gain and ankle swelling. Waste materials will build up in your blood which is not a good thing.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating right and getting enough exercise will help in maintaining blood sugar levels in the body. No diabetes means lesser change of a kidney problem.  No diabetes also means better health overall. Eating right would mean getting more green vegetables and fruits on your diet and avoiding processed / junk food. Exercise doesn’t have to necessarily be at the gym. You can choose to go for a walk, cycling or you even have dance classes that help you stay fit.

Avoid smoking

Smoking can cause different types including kidney cancer. Smoking impacts blood pressure which in turn can have adverse effects on the kidney.  It worsens the condition of people who already have a kidney disease. Besides, smoking is bad. It can cause problems to you as well as people around you.

Avoid consuming OTC medicines regularly

Consuming over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication can cause kidney damage. So if you are coping with pain it is best to consult your doctor about safe medicines.

Get yourself checked periodically

Best way to maintain good health is to be aware. Getting your health checkup done periodically will help monitor your health and take necessary actions accordingly. Knowing how well your kidneys are functioning through a kidney function test will help you know any changes and help prevent any damage in the future.