Healthy kidneys: The complete guide to preventing kidney disease

The kidneys, these discrete bean-shaped organs, play an essential role in keeping our body in balance. Every day, they filter blood, remove toxins and excess fluid, regulate blood pressure and produce vital hormones. Neglecting kidney health can have severe consequences, from recurrent urinary tract infections to chronic kidney disease, kidney failure and even the need for dialysis or transplantation.

The good news is that many kidney diseases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle and being aware of the risk factors! This comprehensive guide gives you essential information on how to protect your kidneys and enjoy a long and healthy life.

Why is kidney health important?

The kidneys are responsible for a number of vital functions, including:

• Blood filtration: Removes toxins, metabolic products and excess fluid from the body.
• Regulate hydro-electrolyte balance: Maintain an optimal level of water and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium) in the body.
• Blood pressure control: they produce hormones that regulate blood pressure.
• Hormone production: It releases erythropoietin, the hormone responsible for making red blood cells, and calcitriol, an active form of vitamin D, important for bone health.

Kidney dysfunction can affect the whole body, causing fatigue, edema (swollen legs), anemia, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and many other health problems.

Risk factors for kidney disease

Some people are at increased risk of developing kidney disease. Risk factors include:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the kidneys.
• High blood pressure: High blood pressure forces the kidneys to work harder and can lead to kidney damage over time.
• Cardiovascular disease: heart and blood vessel disease can affect blood flow to the kidneys.
• Family history of kidney disease: genetic predisposition may increase the risk of kidney disease.
• Age: Kidney function tends to decline with age.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts extra pressure on the kidneys.
• Smoking: Nicotine and other toxic substances in cigarette smoke damage blood vessels and increase the risk of kidney disease.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can dehydrate the body and affect kidney function.
• Use of certain medicines: Some medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can damage the kidneys if used long-term or in high doses.

Essential tips to prevent kidney damage

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and being aware of risk factors are key to protecting your kidneys. Here are some key tips:

1. Proper hydration:

• Drink enough water throughout the day. The ideal amount varies according to age, gender, level of physical activity and climate. In general, at least 2 liters of water a day is recommended.
• Monitor urine color. Light yellow urine indicates adequate hydration. Dark urine may be a sign of dehydration.
• Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumbers and tomatoes.

2. Balanced nutrition:

• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein (fish, chicken, legumes).
• Limit your salt intake. Excess salt can increase blood pressure and put extra strain on the kidneys.
• Cut down on sugar and processed foods.
• Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats.
• Choose foods rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage.

3. Maintain a healthy body weight:

• If you are overweight or obese, lose weight gradually through diet and regular exercise.
• Consult a nutritionist to create a personalized diet plan.

4. Check your blood pressure:

• Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
• If you have high blood pressure, follow the treatment prescribed by your doctor and take measures to keep it under control (diet, exercise, reducing stress).

5. Be physically active:

• Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
• Choose activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, dancing or cycling.

6. Don't smoke:

• If you are a smoker, quit smoking. There are many programs and resources available to help you quit.
• Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.

7. Limit alcohol:

• Drink alcohol in moderation. For women, a maximum of one drink a day and for men, a maximum of two drinks a day.

8. Be careful with medicines:

• Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines.
• Do not exceed the dose recommended by your doctor.
• Tell your doctor about any pre-existing kidney disease.

9. Have regular medical check-ups:

• Visit your GP at least once a year for a routine check-up.
• If you have risk factors for kidney disease, have regular nephrological check-ups.

10. Manage stress:

• Chronic stress can affect kidney health. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga or breathing exercises.
• Get enough sleep. Restful sleep is essential for the body's regeneration.

Nephrology services at Elytis Hospital

Elytis Hospital offers you a full range of nephrology services dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease. Our team is made up of experienced nephrologists who use modern technologies and personalized approaches to provide high quality care to our patients.

Our services include:

• Nephrology consultation: detailed assessment of kidney health, including history, physical examination and interpretation of laboratory tests. Establishment of a personalized treatment and monitoring plan.
• Nephrological control: periodic monitoring of the evolution of kidney disease and adjustment of treatment if necessary.
• Renal ultrasound: a non-invasive imaging investigation used to visualize the kidneys and detect abnormalities.
• Kidney biopsy: Minimally invasive procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is taken for microscopic analysis. Kidney biopsy can help to make an accurate diagnosis and guide treatment.
• Medical education: we provide our patients with comprehensive information about kidney diseases, treatment options and how to prevent complications.

Want accurate results? Get your tests at Elytis Hospital!

At Elytis Hospital, we are dedicated to the health of your kidneys, providing quality medical services based on professionalism, empathy and an individualized approach!

Schedule a nephrology consultation now!

Latest medical review:

16.01.2025, Dr. Alexandra Balla – Medic Primar Nefrologie