Your kidneys play an important role in waste disposal in your body, filtering toxins from your blood and removing waste in the form of urine. Kidneys also help regulate your blood pressure. Most healthy people are born with two kidneys; if one is damaged, the other can pick up the slack. Disease, particularly diabetes, can lead to kidney failure and death if untreated. Taking care of your kidneys will help you stay healthy.
Step 1
Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking fluids flushes out the bladder, preventing the buildup of bacteria that can lead to infection. Drink water before, during and after exercise. Carry a water bottle and drink water during the day.
Step 2
Control your blood sugar. Diabetes is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease, according to the Medical College of Washington's Kidney Disease Center, accounting for 40 percent of all new cases. If you have a history of high blood sugar or your family history puts you at risk, check your blood sugar regularly. If you have diabetes, maintain tight control of your blood sugar.
Step 3
Monitor your blood pressure. The Medical College of Washington's Kidney Disease Center reports that high blood pressure causes 26 percent of all new cases of end-stage renal disease. Your doctor will take your blood pressure whenever you visit, but in between these times you can check your blood pressure at many drug stores or clinics for free.
Step 4
Stop smoking. Texas A&M University's Health Hints newsletter reports that smoking restricts blood flow to the kidneys. Smoking also raises blood pressure. According to the newsletter, smokers are more likely to suffer from kidney disease.
Step 5
Exercise. Regular exercise helps control both blood pressure and blood sugar. U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin recommends you exercise at least 150 minutes a week, which breaks down to as little as 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Step 6
Maintain your weight. Excess weight contributes to high blood pressure and increases your risk of diabetes. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to help control your weight.
Things You'll Need
- Water bottle
