World Kidney Day 2024: 6 precautionary measures to protect your kidneys

The kidneys, which are essential bodily organs, play a crucial function in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance as well as eliminating uremic pollutants. Furthermore, they regulate erythropoiesis and bone health by producing hormones. The International Society of Nephrology (ISN) has been leading a worldwide campaign called “World Kidney Day” to raise awareness about kidney diseases in partnership with the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF).

 

Renal transplant physician and renowned consultant nephrologist Dr. Mamidi Pranith Ram of Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad outlines healthy lifestyle choices that support renal health.

Keep Yourself Hydrated: Since 60% of our body is made up of water, which is carefully balanced by the kidneys, it is best to drink 3 to 5 liters of water a day at the very least to stay as healthy as possible.

Embrace a Healthy and Well-Rounded Diet: A healthy diet consists of an abundance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, dairy products, fish, and fowl. Avoid processed foods and sugar-filled drinks to maintain nutritional purity.

Limit Sodium Intake: Consuming too much sodium is associated with high blood pressure and a higher risk of developing cardiovascular and nephritic diseases. It is advisable to prudently limit salt consumption to no more than 5 grams each day.

Maintain a healthy body mass and participate in regular exercise.
The problem of physical obesity and corpulence is intrinsically related to a host of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension, and kidney and cardiovascular diseases. Strive for five days a week of at least thirty minutes of moderate exercise, such as swimming, brisk walking, or cycling, in order to promote physical vigor and reduce obesity.

Avoid Tobacco Use and Excessive Alcohol Use: Smoking and excessive alcohol use are harmful habits that lead to a number of chronic illnesses. Individuals struggling with these vices have to really seek help from behavioral or mental health professionals.

Follow up on regular health assessments and manage chronic illnesses. Regular health assessments are a recommended strategy for early identification since kidney disease is often hidden. Because long-term chronic illnesses are increasingly linked to renal dysfunction, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to preventing the development of these illnesses. In addition, those with long-term illnesses should have regular renal tests to prevent kidney damage.

Adhering to these principles may strengthen renal resistance and reduce the risk of dying from kidney diseases.