We only have 2, so like the heart and the skin, these need care too.
The kidneys are some of the hardest working organs in the body, they stay behind the scene working very hard to cleanse our bodies of all the waste we put into it daily while at the same time regulation our body fluids.
Did you know that your kidneys filter about 200 liters of blood each day; removing excess salt, water and other waste? This waste is then collected in the bladder, and passes out in the urine.
But like everything else in life they are often neglected and left to fend for themselves. So here is how you can show a little love to these peaceful organs.
Everyone needs to pay attention but if you are prone to kidney disease, have diabetes or high blood pressure or any other condition that can lead to kidney failure please pay attention to these tips.
- Make an effort to drink enough water to keep your urine lighter than the colour of apple juice. If we drink too little water we will reduce our toilet trips and the urine will become darker than apple juice. This means we are holding on to toxins within our body. How much to drink: suggestion is 2-3 litres a day roughly about 8 to 12 (8 ounce cups) daily.
- Excess salt is linked to high blood pressure and can also cause the kidneys to retain liquids. Limit your salt intake to 1 teaspoon a day and remember the foods you may eat will also contain salt.
- Treat your body to regular exercise to maintain your overall health whilst helping to improve blood flow to your kidneys.
- Work to maintain your blood pressure within normal limits, yes as hard as it is, you are aiming for less than 120/80
- Reach for those blood sugar targets, if you are not sure what they should be, speak or visit your registered Dietitian who will be very happy to guide you towards your goal.
- Alcohol can change how the kidneys work, so consider slowly reducing how much or how often you drink or maybe both. The recommendation is 1 drink for women and 2 for men.
- Finally if you have been trying with little success to lose those extra pounds, and you finally decided you need help. Give us a call and we will work with you to help protect your kidneys.
