Kidney is a very important organ of human body. It helps in keeping the blood clean as well as removing excess waste and water from the body. Our kidneys play two important roles, one of which is maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance and controlling blood pressure. In this blog post, I will discuss in detail the functioning of the kidneys, effective ways to protect their health and how to keep the kidneys healthy.
The main function of the kidney
The main function of the kidneys is to remove waste products and excess water from the blood. Kidneys also perform various important functions to maintain the proper function of our body. Following are the main functions of kidney:
- Blood Purification: Kidneys filter about 150 liters of blood per day and remove waste products through it.
- Elimination of waste: Kidneys remove waste products and toxins, which are then excreted from the body through urine.
- Electrolyte Balance: Maintains the balance of important minerals in the body such as sodium, potassium and calcium.
- Acid-base balance: The kidneys maintain the pH level of the blood, which helps the body maintain proper functioning.
- Blood pressure regulation: Kidneys produce a hormone called renin, which helps in blood pressure regulation.
- Maintaining the level of hemoglobin in the blood: Kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which helps in the production of red blood cells in the blood.
Symptoms of kidney disease
If the kidneys are not functioning properly, a variety of problems can occur. Some symptoms are:
- Urinary problems: Frequent urination, burning or blood in the urine may occur.
- Swelling: Swelling especially around the face, hands, feet and eyes.
- Fatigue: If the kidneys are not working properly, toxins accumulate in the body, resulting in fatigue and weakness.
- Dry and Itchy Skin: This can affect the skin if the kidneys are not able to remove waste properly.
- Vomiting and loss of appetite: Kidney problems can cause nausea and reluctance to eat.
Effective ways to protect the kidneys
Regular precautions are necessary to maintain healthy kidneys. Below are some effective ways to protect the kidneys:
- Drink enough water: Drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water daily is essential for kidney health. Water helps eliminate waste from the body.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put stress on the kidneys. Weight should be kept under control by exercising and following a proper diet.
- Proper diet: High protein and low salt foods should be consumed. Eating fruits, vegetables and less processed foods is important to keep the kidneys healthy.
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can damage the kidneys. Avoiding them protects the kidneys in the long run.
- Keeping blood pressure under control: High blood pressure can damage the kidneys, so regular blood pressure checks and consultation with a doctor should be done if needed.
- Keeping Blood Sugar Under Control: Diabetes is a big enemy of kidney. Keeping blood sugar under control reduces the risk of kidney damage.
- Consuming Natural Diuretic Foods: Eating various natural diuretic foods like watermelon, cucumber, lemon, these foods make it easier to eliminate kidney waste.
- Precautions in taking medicines: Before taking any kind of medicine, consult a doctor, as many medicines can have harmful effects on the kidneys.
- Regular health check-ups: Especially those who are at high risk, should have a kidney check-up every six months.
- Do not ignore severe pain or burning sensation during urination: it is important to consult a doctor immediately if such problems occur.
Tips to reduce the risk of kidney disease
Some simple tips can be followed to reduce the risk of kidney disease:
- Avoid junk food and processed food: These contain sodium and preservatives, which are harmful to the kidneys.
- Limiting caffeine: Drinking too much tea and coffee can have a negative effect on the kidneys.
- Staying hydrated: Drinking water regularly helps the kidneys to remove waste easily.
Some home tips to keep kidney healthy
Following are some home tips to maintain kidney health:
- Coconut water: Coconut water is very beneficial for the kidneys and helps maintain electrolyte balance.
- Lemon water: Lemon water is a natural detoxifier and helps to eliminate waste through urine.
- Fenugreek Seed Water: Soaking fenugreek seeds overnight and drinking that water in the morning helps to keep the kidneys clean.
Kidneys are very important organs in our body, which remove waste from the body, maintain electrolyte balance and regulate blood pressure. Healthy eating habits, regular drinking of water and proper lifestyle are very important to protect the kidneys. So being aware of kidney health, taking necessary measures and following doctor’s advice is helpful in reducing the risk of kidney disease.
