Finance
Kidney diseases are growing more widespread in India, affecting both young and elderly people. Unhealthy diets, sedentary lives, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a lack of awareness have all contributed to an increase in kidney disease. Fortunately, maintaining some practices can lower the risk of kidney disease and promote long-term health.
Fortunately for us, a nutritionist, took the time to share some great ideas! In this post, we’ll go over five basic but effective behaviors that every Indian should take to maintain their kidneys healthy and operating properly. Let’s go!
Why kidney health is a growing concern in India
It is crucial to pay attention to your kidneys and improve the quality of your life. Kidneys filter waste, balance body fluids, and regulate blood pressure. Currently, India is facing a silent epidemic of kidney disease.
This surge is due to various factors like unmanaged diabetes, high blood pressure, rising obesity levels, and the unsupervised use of medications, which can take a toll on kidney function over time.
There are several types of kidney conditions, such as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) lead to irreversible damage. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) means a sudden loss of kidney function, often leading to dehydration, infections, or medications.
Symptoms and complications of poor kidney health
Kidney stones form when minerals crystallise and block the urinary tract. These conditions can interfere with one’s daily activities. The symptoms of kidney problems are swelling in the ankles, feet, or face, frequent urination at night, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and blood in the urine.
If left untreated, kidney disease can induce complications like high blood pressure, anaemia, bone disorders, nerve damage, and eventually kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant for survival.
5 doctor-backed habits to protect your kidneys daily
1. Stay hydrated:
According to various studies, drinking enough water helps the kidneys flush out toxins. Try to drink at least 10-12 glasses of water per day. Consult an expert and understand the amount of water one should drink per day.
2. Managing comorbidities:
Diabetes and hypertension are the culprits behind kidney disease. Regular health check-ups, a balanced diet, medications, exercise, and getting a minimum of 8 hours of sleep every day will help to control these comorbidities.
3. Cut down on salty and processed foods:
Excess salt can pressurise the kidneys and raise blood pressure. It is necessary to avoid processed and salty foods. So, bid adieu to Pizza, pasta, namkeens, bakery items, sodas, and colas. Choose home-cooked meals with less oil, salt, and preservatives. Follow the diet as advised by the expert.
4. Avoid unnecessary painkillers and self-medication:
Frequent use of over-the-counter drugs can harm your kidneys. Always consult a doctor before taking any medicine regularly. Remember, self-medication is risky.
5. Stay active and maintain a healthy weight:
Various studies have confirmed that regular physical activity improves overall health and prevents diabetes and heart disease, both of which affect the kidneys. It is the need of the hour to exercise every day for at least 45 minutes under the guidance of a fitness trainer.
Making wise decisions is essential for protecting your kidneys. With awareness, these basic actions can help millions of Indians avoid kidney-related issues and maintain good health.
(Disclaimer: The article’s advice and recommendations are meant primarily as general information and should not be interpreted as expert medical advice. Before beginning any exercise program or making any dietary changes, always get advice from your doctor or a dietitian.)
