It’s critical to look after your kidneys because they’re so fundamental to your overall health. You can keep them in good condition by following these five simple lifestyle changes.
Keep yourself hydrated.
Your kidneys will perform better if you drink enough water. The colour of your urine should be straw. It could be a symptom of dehydration if it’s any darker. To compensate for the fluid lost through sweating, you should drink more water than usual in hot weather, when travelling to hot regions, or when exercising vigorously.
Consume nutritious foods.
A well-balanced diet ensures that your body receives all of the vitamins and minerals it requires. Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole-wheat pasta, bread, and rice. Don’t overindulge in salty or fatty foods.
Keep an eye on your blood pressure.
Check your blood pressure on a regular basis.
Although high blood pressure has no symptoms, it can put you at risk for kidney and heart problems. Your GP clinic and many high-street pharmacies offer a free blood pressure check that is simple, quick, and painless. A GP can recommend lifestyle modifications or, if necessary, prescribe a prescription to lower your blood pressure if it is higher than it should be. Between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg is considered optimal blood pressure.
Do not smoke or consume excessive amounts of alcohol.
Smoking should be avoided at all costs, and alcohol use should be kept to a minimum. It is recommended that men and women drink no more than 14 units of alcohol per week on a regular basis. Learn more about how to reduce your alcohol consumption. Both excessive alcohol consumption and smoking elevate blood pressure. One of the most common causes of renal disease is high blood pressure.
Maintain a healthy weight to help your kidneys.
Being overweight boosts blood pressure, which is harmful to your kidneys. Maintain a healthy weight by staying active and avoiding overeating. The body mass index (BMI) is a useful tool for determining whether or not you are at a healthy weight. To calculate your BMI, use the healthy weight calculator. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
