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How to maintain healthy kidneys?
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Kidney & Urinary Health
Question #12302
46 days ago
94

How to maintain healthy kidneys? - #12302

Swara

I am really worried about my kidneys after what happened last month. I had this weird pain in my lower back, and I thought it was just a muscle strain from lifting something heavy. But then, I started feeling super tired all the time—like, I could barely get out of bed! So, I went to the doctor, and they did some tests, and thankfully my kidney function was normal. I overheard them talking about how to maintain healthy kidneys, and now I can't stop thinking about it! I mean, is there a specific diet I should be following?? I've been drinking a lot of water, but I’m curious about other things, too! Are there certain foods that I should avoid that can harm my kidneys? I also read that exercise is important, but sometimes, it feels overwhelming to fit that in with my work schedule. Can stress impact kidney health? Like I sometimes feel stressed out from work and family stuff, and I'm worried that might affect me! I'm trying to figure out practical steps on how to maintain healthy kidneys beyond just drinking more water. Any advice from you guys would be super helpful!

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Doctors’ responses

Maintaining healthy kidneys goes beyond drinking water, although staying hydrated is indeed crucial. It’s important to focus on a balanced diet that supports kidney function. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meals, while being cautious with sodium intake, as high salt levels can strain the kidneys. Consider moderating protein consumption, particularly from red meat and certain fish, to reduce the burden on your kidneys. Limit your intake of processed foods, which often contain additives harmful to kidney health. Try to keep your blood pressure and blood sugar within normal ranges, as hypertension and diabetes are leading causes of kidney damage. Regular exercise is beneficial; even 30 minutes most days of week can make a significant difference. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming—consider low-impact activities like walking, cycling, or swimming that can fit into your schedule. Stress management is also key. Chronic stress can indirectly affect your kidneys by contributing to high blood pressure. Find techniques that suit your lifestyle, such as mindfulness, or yoga, which help alleviate stress. It’s great that you’re already thinking about these factors. Regular medical check-ups, especially if you have risk factors, can catch early signs of trouble. Remember, big changes aren’t always necessary to improve kidney health; small, consistent steps often work best.

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