As you age, your kidneys go through changes that can make them more susceptible to damage. Kidney function decreases with age, and the risk of developing kidney disease increases. Therefore, it is important to take care of your kidneys as you grow older.

Here are some ways to safeguard your kidneys as you age.

1. Control Your Blood Sugar Levels

If you have diabetes, the most important thing you can do for your kidneys is to control your blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, which can cause kidney disease.

Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for managing your diabetes, including monitoring your blood sugar levels and taking your medications as prescribed.

2. Monitor Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can also damage the blood vessels in your kidneys and cause kidney disease. If you have high blood pressure, it’s important to keep it under control.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations for monitoring your blood pressure and taking any medications as prescribed.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water is important for kidney health. It helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the kidneys. Make sure you drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, or more if you are physically active or if the weather is hot.

4. Avoid Smoking

Smoking can increase your risk of kidney disease by damaging the blood vessels in your kidneys. If you smoke, consider quitting. Talk to your doctor about cessation strategies that may work for you.

5. Limit your Alcohol Intake

Drinking too much alcohol can also damage your kidneys. Limit your alcohol intake to one or two drinks per day, and avoid binge drinking.

6. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is important for kidney health. This includes eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid foods that are high in salt, saturated fat, and sugar.

7. Keep your Cholesterol Under Control

High cholesterol can also damage your kidneys. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take any cholesterol-lowering medications as prescribed by your doctor.

8. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help to keep your kidneys healthy by improving blood flow to the kidneys and reducing your risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and other conditions that can damage your kidneys.

9. Take Medications as Prescribed

If you have kidney disease or are at risk for kidney disease, it’s important to take any medications as prescribed by your doctor. This includes medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.

10. Get Regular Kidney Function Tests

Regular kidney function tests can help to detect kidney disease early, when it is easier to treat. Talk to your doctor about how often you should have your kidney function tested if you are at risk for kidney disease.