World Kidney Day 2023: 6 Everyday Habits To Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

Wednesday, March 8, 2023, 17:00

World Kidney Day (WKD) is observed every year on the second Thursday of March. The day aims to raise awareness of the importance of the kidneys and reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease. WKD is a joint initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF).

World Kidney Day 2023 falls on 9 March. The World Kidney Day Joint Steering Committee has declared World Kidney Day 2023 theme to be the year of "Kidney Health for All - Preparing for the unexpected, supporting the vulnerable!"

Habits To Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

Your kidneys play a critical and central role in maintaining your health. A healthy kidney is necessary for the daily workings of your body and for maintaining your general health and well-being. Reports point out the harsh reality that about 10 percent of the population worldwide is affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), and millions die each year.

According to experts, the best way to promote a healthy kidney is to adopt kidney-friendly habits.

So, follow these everyday habits to keep your kidneys healthy.

Habits To Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

1. Stay active and healthy

Active living is the key to a healthy lifestyle, and the same applies to kidney health as well. Exercise is good for more than just your waistline. In addition to reducing your blood pressure, it also boosts your heart health, which is important for preventing kidney damage. It can also lower your risk of chronic kidney disease [1].

2. Check your blood pressure regularly

A high blood pressure condition may lead to kidney damage. In conjunction with other health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high cholesterol, high blood pressure may have a significant impact on your body [2].

3. Monitor your blood sugar levels

The risk of developing kidney disease increases with diabetes. Many diabetics have kidney failure and require dialysis or organ transplantation. It is therefore essential to keep your blood sugar levels under control. Having regular kidney function tests is also important for diabetics. If detected early, kidney damage can be reduced or prevented [3].

4. Stay hydrated

The importance of drinking sufficient water for the health of the body and kidneys cannot be overstated. Drinking adequate amounts of water and other fluids will aid in the kidney's ability to remove sodium, urea, and other toxins from the body [4].

5. Maintain a healthy diet

By consuming a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, you may be protected from multiple diseases. Eating healthy reduces your consumption of empty calories, as well as your salt intake. Avoid processed and packaged foods and eat light and fresh. Consult with a dietician for guidance on adopting a kidney-friendly diet [5].

6. Avoid harmful habits

The effects of excessive drinking do not only affect the liver; they are also associated with kidney damage. Accordingly, excessive smoking is not only harmful to the lungs but also affects the kidneys [6].

On A Final Note...

Taking care of your kidneys should be one of your top health concerns since these organs are responsible for many functions, such as processing body waste and generating hormones - that are all integral to your overall health.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.