Kidneys perform a very important function in the human body. They help remove metabolic products from the blood and take care of maintaining the correct concentration of water and electrolytes in our bodies. In order for them to function properly, it is necessary to follow certain rules of prevention. What can we do to keep our kidneys healthy for as long as possible? Three steps are enough. Get to know them all.
Step one: diet
This is the step to start with, after all, we have the most influence on it. Everything that lands on our plate affects the functioning of the body – including the kidneys.
As a first step, let’s remember to stay properly hydrated. By doing so, we contribute to increasing diuresis – the flow of urine. Above all, let’s reach for low-mineralized water. The daily water intake guideline for an adult is 2 to 2.5 liters. It is worth remembering this especially before bedtime – diuresis decreases at night, which promotes the formation of kidney stones.
The second issue – food. The basis of the diet should be primarily vegetables and fruits rich in fiber. At the same time, avoid salt, highly processed products and animal protein. In the case of kidney stones, it is worth contacting a nutritionist – the appropriate menu will depend on the variety of the disease.
Herbal supplements such as Phytolysin tablets are also worth adding to the diet. The capsules contain parsley root, horsetail and couch grass rhizome, among others.
Step two: physical activity
Maintaining an appropriate body weight is an important aspect, not only from the perspective of kidney stone prevention. Being overweight, having a sedentary lifestyle and other accompanying diseases create ideal conditions for the development of deposits in the kidneys. People with a normal BMI are far less likely to struggle with renal colic.
How to take care of yourself? Simple activities are enough – running, cycling, visits to the pool. Sport not only influences weight loss – during movement deposits begin to move, making it easier to expel them from the body.
At the same time, do not forget about hydration. As a result of sweating, urine becomes concentrated. By neglecting this aspect, we can make even more problems for ourselves.
Step three: research
Kidney stones are a disease that can develop asymptomatically for years. It is therefore necessary to take appropriate preventive measures to help minimize the risk of problems. On the list of tests that are worth doing regularly are: general urine test, blood test, ultrasound. A urographic examination, X-ray and CT scan are also useful in case the disease is suspected.