Your kidneys play a vital role in your overall health and wellness. They filter waste and excess fluids from your blood, regulate your body’s salt and potassium levels, and produce hormones that help regulate your blood pressure.

Unfortunately, if you don’t take care of your kidneys, you can develop kidney disease, which can lead to kidney failure and, ultimately, the need for dialysis or a transplant. The good news is that you can take steps to keep your kidneys healthy. In this article, we’ll share with you some habits you can adopt to keep your kidneys functioning well for the rest of your life.

1. Drink plenty of water

Your kidneys need water to function correctly. When you don’t drink enough water, your urine becomes concentrated, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Drinking enough water can help prevent kidney stones from forming and help flush out waste products and toxins from your body. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least eight cups of water a day, but this can vary depending on your activity level, the climate you live in, and other factors. If you’re not sure how much water you should be drinking, talk to your doctor.

2. Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet can help keep your kidneys healthy. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources such as poultry and fish can help reduce your risk of developing kidney disease.

Avoid foods that are high in salt, sodium, and processed meats, as these can increase your blood pressure and put strain on your kidneys. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, it’s essential to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian who can help you create a meal plan that’s right for you.

3. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can help keep your kidneys healthy. Exercise can help reduce your blood pressure, increase your insulin sensitivity, and improve your cardiovascular health, all of which can help reduce your risk of developing kidney disease.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. If you’re new to exercise, start slowly and gradually work your way up.

4. Don’t smoke

Smoking is harmful to your kidneys and can increase your risk of developing kidney disease. Smoking can reduce blood flow to your kidneys, cause damage to your kidney tissues, and make it harder for your body to fight infections.

If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting. Your doctor can provide you with resources and support to help you quit smoking.

5. Manage your blood pressure and blood sugar

High blood pressure and high blood sugar are two of the leading causes of kidney disease. It’s essential to manage these conditions carefully to help keep your kidneys healthy.

If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, work with your doctor to manage these conditions effectively. This may include taking medication, making lifestyle changes, and monitoring your blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly.

By adopting these five habits, you can help keep your kidneys healthy for life. Remember to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your kidney health.

Your doctor can provide you with guidance on how to best take care of your kidneys and monitor your kidney health over time.