Whether you are otherwise healthy or at-risk for kidney disease, studies show that supporting your kidneys function is important to your well being.Your kidneys remove waste products and drugs from the body, balance your body's fluids, release hormones to regulate blood pressure, promote development of strong and healthy bones, and control the production of red blood cells.Research shows that by managing lifestyle factors and getting medical treatment, you can support your overall health.
Step 1: Hydrate with care.
Some people think that over hydrating can benefit their kidneys.Drinking four to six glasses a day is not supported by any studies.The amount should be enough to support the function of your kidneys.Water is the best option to keep you hydrated without the added sugar, caffeine, or other substances in your diet.If you are active in the summer, drink more.For every hour you are active, add 8 ounces of water.
Step 2: A healthy diet can be maintained.
The kidneys can tolerate a lot of different foods, but most problems are related to other medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure that can be controlled by food.It is possible to support your kidneys and manage other conditions by eating a healthy and rich diet.Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, lean meats, and beans are healthy foods.It's a good idea to avoid too much salt.When cooking or buying high-sodium processed foods, don't add salt.Limit salty snacks to very rare occasions.Some foods with lower levels of potassium are apples, carrots, cabbage, green beans, grapes, and blueberries.Bananas, oranges, potatoes, and other high-potassium foods should be avoided.Limit the types of sources.Lean meats such as chicken or fish can be trimmed of fat.Instead of frying your meats, bake, grill, or broil them.Vegetables, fruits, whole-grain breads, and non-sugary cereals are some of the sources of nutrition you can get.
Step 3: Alcohol and smoking should be limited.
If you smoke or drink alcoholic beverages, either quit or limit your intake.If you already have high blood pressure or a worsening of the disease, both can increase your risk.Men and women should have no more than two drinks per day.If you are having difficulties quitting smoking, you should speak to your doctor about starting a program.
Step 4: You should exercise regularly.
It is possible to promote your overall health by getting exercise, but also to counteract the dangers of kidney disease.Moderate activity most days of the week can support your kidneys function and ward off weight that may cause them problems.Before starting an exercise regimen, speak to your doctor.Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a week.There are many activities that you can do such as walking, running, jogging, swimming, biking, or even dancing.A healthy diet and regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Step 5: Follow instructions on how to use the medication.
If you want to use over-the-counter pain killers, you need to follow the packaging instructions.Taking too much pain medication can cause problems.If you already have problems with the kidneys, consider avoiding NSAIDs.Ibuprofen and naproxen are included.Ask your doctor if they are safe to take.
Step 6: Control underlying conditions.
High blood pressure and diabetes are some of the conditions that can increase your risk for kidney disease.If you manage any underlying causes, you may be able to support your kidneys.You can check your blood pressure at home or at the doctor's office.Blood pressure should be less than 140/90mm Hg.If you have diabetes, you should check and control your blood sugar.Make sure your cholesterol levels are within a healthy range.Blood tests can be ordered by your doctor.If your doctor prescribes any medication, remember to take it.
Step 7: You can see your doctor.
If managing lifestyle and underlying conditions doesn't improve how you feel, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.She can come up with a treatment plan for you.Tell your doctor if you have any symptoms or signs.Let her know what you are taking.Take a list of questions.Ask your doctor questions about your condition.
Step 8: Discuss your treatment options with your doctor
Discuss your treatment options with your doctor after he diagnoses your problems with the kidneys.Depending on the severity of your case or underlying causes, he may suggest continuing to support your kidney function with lifestyle and medication.
Step 9: Take medication to treat the problem.
There are certain medications that may help with the treatment of kidney disease.Take these to see if they help with your kidneys.It is possible for your doctor to prescribe a medication that lowers high blood pressure.Decrease water retention and swelling, lower cholesterol, and protect bones with supplements.Reducing waste products in your blood is one of the things your doctor may suggest.
Step 10: Look at end-stage treatments.
Your kidneys may not be able to keep up with ridding your body of waste and fluid.If this is the case, you may have end-stage kidney disease, which will require more extensive care.You should speak to your doctor about what you need to do.She may suggest that you use edysis to remove waste from your blood or body fluids.A transplant involves implanting a donor organ into your body.You will have to take medication for the rest of your life to keep your body from rejecting the donor organ.