Good Lifestyle

If you are like me, you don't spend much (or, uh, any ) time Think about your kidneys . In fact, many of us have the most vague the idea of what our kidneys do - we just know that we need at least one to live. For a more technical explanation, Better life turned to the nephrologist Kalyani Perumal , MD, medical director of dialysis, department of kidney diseases Cook County Health .

"The kidneys are organs in the shape of beans located in the upper part of the back of the abdomen, and they play a crucial role in maintaining our health and our well-being," said Perumal, noting that the main work of the kidneys is to eliminate waste from our waste from our blood waste, which is then excreted in our urine . "In addition, they produce very important hormones to stimulate new red blood cells and maintain the bone force," she explains. "They play [also] a vital role in water balance and regulate important mineral levels in our body such as sodium, potassium and calcium."

Perumal says kidney disease is one of the fastest growth epidemics in the United States, with one in three adults at risk of developing the disease. "About 37 million American adults have kidney disease and most of them ignore them," she said. "Kidney disease is often called a" silent killer "because many have no symptoms before reaching late stages."

Could you hurt your kidneys without even knowing it? Read the rest for five common habits that could put these vital organs in danger, so that you can start taking care of them today.

Read this then: Margaret Cho has entered into renal failure on the set after being in a hurry to lose weight .

You probably already know that staying hydrated is Key to good health - And that includes your kidneys.

"A common habit that can damage the kidneys is not to drink enough water," said family doctor certified by the board of directors Laura Purdy , Md. "Dehydration can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which can put tension on the kidneys. It is essential to drink enough water to keep the body hydrated and help the kidneys to eliminate waste and toxins. " AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

If you are thirsty, your kidneys are too - drink!

"Another current habit that can damage the kidneys is to consume too much salt," said Purdy. "Salt can cause Presson in spell E, which can put pressure on the kidneys. ""

Perumal recommends eating a diet rich in fibers, such as fruits and vegetables, and limitation of salt and fat. "Limit animal proteins and replace yourself with plant proteins in your diet, especially if you risk developing a kidney disease," she said Better life . "Choose low -salt options and use herbs to increase food flavor. Try cooking your own foods so that you can choose the ingredients that are beneficial to you. Rinse canned meats, vegetables and fish with the 'Water before eating. Pay. Watch out for nutritional facts and selecting low salt and fat foods. "

She says she practicing careful diet - focusing on the flavor of your food and avoiding distractions - may not only increase your kidney health, but your general well -being.

That you have a headache, a back pain , or another throbbing complaint, blowing up an advil or tylenol can make it fall like magic. This is why many of us Keep a bottle at hand , based on him for daily use. However, it is better to avoid taking it each Day, Purdy and Perumal agree. "Over -the -counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can damage the kidneys if they are used excessively," says Purdy. "It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not to use these drugs for long periods."

Perumal adds that home remedies can also be dangerous. "Over-the-counter pain relievers and plant preparations can cause serious kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes and high blood pressure," she explains, exhorting readers to consult their care provider health before taking medication or nutritional supplement.

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It is not a new one that the use of tobacco is bad for you, but in case you were not clear about this fact, Purdy and Perumal are happy to tell you again. "Smoking can cause high blood pressure and damage blood vessels, resulting in a decrease in kidney function over time," said Purdy. "Stop smoking is crucial for overall health, including kidney health."

"Highter blood pressure and diabetes are the main causes of kidney disease in the United States," said Perumal, adding that "smoking causes various toxins in the body and is a Risk factor for various cancers In the body. "If you have trouble stopping, she encourages you to call the national line to leave at 1-800-Quitnow (1-800-784-8669) to get help." You are not alone! ""

Stress? Join the club. A survey in 2022 sponsored by the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that "a majority of adults are discouraged by the government and the political division, intimidated by the levels of historical inflation and dismayed by generalized violence". APA wrote that people in the United States are " Faced with a dam of external stressors which are mainly out of personal control. ""

What has it to do with your kidneys? Many, said Perumal. "Chronic stress leads to various medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and mental illness, which negatively affect kidney health." It recommends stress reduction methods such as deep breathing, practice mindfulness , and take time for a soft exercise like yoga, chi-gong and tai chi. "Personal care is very important in your daily routine," she says. "Take 10 minutes of your daily life just for your personal care."

Best Life offers the most up -to -date information for high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. If you have health questions or concerns, always consult your health care provider directly.