Kidney function in the body is quite vital since they are among the major body organs. For this reason, when a person experiences adverse kidney failure, it's either they get a kidney transplant or face death. Statistics reveal that the number of people in need of a kidney transplant increases by the day. With healthy kidneys, the life span gets extended since the body's functioning is guaranteed to be smooth. The kidneys play a vital role in removing any wastes and any excess fluids from the body in the form of urine. As a result, the stability of the body's chemical balance is achieved. The kidney performs several other functions including, drug elimination from the bloodstream and hormone production for the body's blood pressure regulation. Therefore, malfunctions of the kidney result in significant complications such as chronic kidney disease. Most adults are at a higher risk of having kidney complications due to their lifestyle. However, some kidney complications can also result from congenital disorders. Before such complications arise, one has the power to make some lifestyle changes to improve kidney health.
1 - Switch to a Healthy Diet
Diet shapes a person. Maintaining a balanced diet is a guarantee that one's lifestyle will be happier and stress-free. Since kidneys break down the consumed food, the diet is crucial. Kidneys will have a hard time breaking down things like excess fat, excess calories, salt, and sugar. Taking them in smaller quantities makes it easier for the kidney to function correctly. However, leaning to healthier meals like fruits, vegetables, and fiber may be an even better option since the kidney will be at ease breaking them down. It is best to get a balanced diet guide from an experienced dietician.
2 - Stay Hydrated
Water has a significant role in kidney functions. Movement of waste and urine formation needs water. The more water intake one has the less concentrated the urine formation he or she gets. Several factors affect the level of water intake a person can have. The climate and one's physical condition are some of the significant influencers of one's water intake. Staying hydrated in a hot area implies that one has to take in water continually. For an adult, about two liters of water should be enough for proper kidney function.
3 - Regulate Blood Pressure
Blood pressure levels affect the functioning of the kidney. The kidney is at more risk of damage when one experiences high blood pressure. The risk is because, unlike other conditions, high blood pressure gets usually accompanied by other medical conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Therefore, it is wise to have blood pressure levels checked and controlled if one is young. It is necessary to consult with the doctor and advise whether to have some lifestyle adjustments or depend on medications to keep the blood pressure level in check.
4 - Start Regular Exercise
With the right kind of exercise, the body stays active and fit. Therefore, high blood pressure can be alleviated. Jogging frequently or even joining a fitness class are some of the most effective ways of remaining active. However, even as one exercises, it is good to keep in mind that overdoing the training can strain kidney functioning. Such strain can cause the kidney to have significant damage. One can tell whether they have the right weight by continually checking on a weight scale or checking their BMI.
5 - Avoid Excessive Drinking and Smoking.
There is no good impact that drugs ever had on anyone. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking have adverse effects on one's health eventually. The kidney is the worst hit since it is the one tasked with removing wastes from the body. Ultimately, the results outweigh the kidney functioning, and one is later left facing kidney complications. If drinking is a lifestyle choice, the one should go about it with moderation. However, there should be no compromise when it comes to quitting smoking. The chances of having kidney cancer increases by about 50% when smoking is part of a lifestyle. As a result, kidney functioning decreases significantly, making one vulnerable.