How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy and Functional

Keeping your kidneys healthy while you are relatively young will reduce your chances of kidney disease when you are older. While some people may be pre-disposed to renal problems, there are still things that everyone can do to keep the kidneys functioning.

If you have a family history of kidney failure, or have had renal disease in the past, read below to learn what you can do to improve your health for the future.

Instructions

1. If you can, avoid prolonged use of NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, since these medicines are hard on the kidneys. If you are on a presciption for one of these drugs, frequent blood tests can reveal potential problems with your kidneys. Your doctor can switch your medication before complications arise.

2. Stay hydrated throughout the day. Lack of water can, over time, cause unnecessary stress on your renal system.

3. Eat fruits and vegetables that contribute to kidney health. Vegetables in the mustard family (cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflour) are frequently recommended to people on dialysis. Berries, apples, garlic and onions, peppers, and tomatoes are recommended as well.

4. Avoid handling or over-exposure to heavy metals. Lead, chromium, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic are main hazards to kidney health. If you are susceptible to kidney disorders, it is advised that you avoid supplements and sports drinks that contain chromium compounds, and avoid vitamin supplements with chromium and cadmium.

5. Use alcohol and tobacco in moderation. Like your liver, your kidneys are also responsible for filtering poison out of your body. Since alcohol and tobacco are essentially poisons, they only increase the work load on your renal system.

6. Reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Exercise regularly, and cut back on fats and sugars while you are young. If you become diabetic later in life, one of the first things to fail are the kidneys.