Kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs that are responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, producing urine, and regulating body fluids and electrolytes balance.

As we age, our kidneys go through significant changes that can affect their overall functioning. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of age on kidney functioning and how to maintain healthy kidneys throughout our lives.

As we age, our kidneys undergo many structural and functional changes that can affect their ability to filter waste products and maintain proper electrolyte balance. Some of the age-related changes in kidney function include:.

1. Decline in Kidney Mass

As we get older, our kidney mass starts to decline, which can affect their ability to filter waste products and produce urine. In the normal aging process, we can lose up to 30% of our kidney mass, which can lead to a decline in kidney function.

2. Decrease in Blood Flow to the Kidneys

The aging process can also affect the blood flow to the kidneys, leading to a decrease in kidney function.

As our blood vessels become less elastic and our blood pressure increases with age, our kidneys may not receive enough blood to function properly.

3. Slower Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measure of how well the kidneys are filtering waste products from the blood. As we age, our GFR slows down due to a decrease in the number of functioning nephrons, the tiny filtering units in the kidneys.

This can impair our kidneys’ ability to filter waste products and regulate fluid balance.

4. Reduced Ability to Concentrate Urine

As we age, our kidneys become less able to concentrate urine, which can lead to an increased risk of dehydration.

This may be due to a decrease in the number of water channels in the kidneys and a decline in the production of a hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which regulates urine concentration.

5. Decreased Ability to Eliminate Drugs

The kidneys play a vital role in eliminating drugs from the body. As we age, our kidneys may become less efficient at eliminating drugs, leading to a build-up of toxins in the body. This can increase the risk of drug toxicity and side effects.

6. Increased Risk of Kidney Disease

As we age, our kidneys become more vulnerable to damage from diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. These conditions can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to a decline in kidney function over time.

Ways to Maintain Healthy Kidneys

Although we can’t control the natural aging process, there are steps we can take to maintain healthy kidneys throughout our lives. These include:.

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids is essential for maintaining healthy kidneys. Water helps flush toxins and waste products from the kidneys, reducing the risk of kidney stones and other kidney-related problems.

Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, or more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help maintain healthy kidneys. Avoid processed and high-sodium foods, which can increase blood pressure and put extra strain on the kidneys.

3. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help improve blood flow to the kidneys and reduce the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and other conditions that can cause kidney damage.

4. Control Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar

High blood pressure and diabetes are the two leading causes of kidney disease. Keeping your blood pressure and blood sugar under control can help reduce the risk of kidney damage and other health complications.

5. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of kidney damage and other health problems. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to maintain healthy kidneys.

Conclusion

As we age, our kidneys undergo many changes that can affect their overall functioning.

However, by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and avoiding risk factors, we can maintain healthy kidneys throughout our lives and reduce the risk of kidney diseases and other health complications.