March is National Kidney Month, making it a great time to take charge of your health by lowering your chances of developing kidney disease. Your kidneys filter your blood to remove waste and extra water to create urine. They also make vital hormones that produce red blood cells, promote bone health and regulate blood pressure. As such, the kidneys play a vital role in your body.
The National Kidney Foundation reports that 1 in 3 adults are at risk for life-threatening kidney disease, but most don’t even know it.
Risk Factors
Kidney disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. Today, 15% of Americans are affected by kidney disease—and most won’t have symptoms unless their kidneys fail. There are numerous physical signs of kidney disease, but most people attribute them to other conditions. If you have one of these risk factors, you may be at risk for kidney disease:
- High blood pressure Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Excess weight
- Family history of kidney disease
Kidney-friendly Lifestyle Tips
Your kidneys work hard for you, so taking good care of them is essential. Consider these tips:
- Get tested. Regular screening for kidney damage or disease can allow you to keep track of your kidney’s health and help prevent future damage.
- Reduce over-the-counter drug usage. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen) can cause kidney damage if taken regularly, so never exceed the recommended dosage.
- Exercise regularly. Exercising helps lower your blood pressure and boost heart health—both critical factors in preventing kidney damage. Focus on being active for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Eat a healthy diet. Studies reveal that eating whole grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to keep kidneys healthy. A plant-based diet may also help prevent and treat kidney disease.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Water helps flush sodium and toxins from your kidneys. It’s recommended that men should get about 15.5 cups of fluids each day, and women need about 11.5 cups.
Contact your doctor for more information about kidney health and warning signs of kidney disease.