It's crucial to manage health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, avoid smoking, and limit over-the-counter painkiller use. Regular kidney function check-ups are also recommended, especially for those with a family history of kidney disease or at high risk.
Diet and Hydration
Drink Water:
Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day to help filter waste from your blood.
Eat a Balanced Diet:
Focus on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and lower in sodium, processed foods, and excessive sugars.
Limit Processed Foods and Salt:
Reducing your salt intake helps manage blood pressure, a key factor in kidney health.
Lifestyle Choices
Stay Active:
Regular exercise helps control blood sugar and blood pressure, reduces the risk of obesity, and supports overall kidney function.
Quit Smoking:
Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys and can make blood pressure medications less effective, increasing the risk of kidney disease.
Limit Alcohol Intake:
Excessive alcohol consumption can be dehydrating and should be limited.
Avoid Overusing Painkillers:
Regularly taking non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can damage the kidneys over time.
Managing Health Conditions
Control Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for kidney damage, so regular monitoring and treatment are essential.
Manage Diabetes:
Keep your blood sugar levels in check by meeting your targets and getting regular HbA1c tests to prevent damage to your kidneys.
Preventative Care
Get Regular Check-ups:
See a healthcare professional for regular kidney function tests and monitoring, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.
Monitor Symptoms:
Be aware of potential early signs of kidney problems, such as unexplained tiredness, swelling in the feet or ankles, changes in urination, or shortness of breath, and see a doctor right away if you notice them.
