Minor lifestyle decisions affect the wellness of our kidneys, explains expert

Kidneys work nonstop in our bodies to keep us healthy and disease-free. They remove toxins, filter waste, and balance vital minerals which helps control blood pressure levels. The small decisions we make in our daily life have a great impact on our kidney's health. Let's understand how our minor lifestyle decisions affect the wellness of our kidneys with the help of Dr Prakash Chandra Shetty Urologist, Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital from Mumbai's Powai. From eating, sleeping, and drinking habits every habit coincides with each other which impacts our kidney's destiny.

Eating Right: Think of your body as a vehicle that works on fuel known as food. Just like a car moves smoothly and efficiently on the road with the right kind of fuel, similarly our body requires the right and nutritious food to work effectively. Whenever we consume junk food, excessive fatty fast foods, and sugar snacks it puts extra stress on our kidneys. So, always choose a healthy diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains added. These food-equipped diets give your kidneys all the required nutrients for your body. 

Staying Hydrated: Make a habit of drinking 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day. Water acts as the kidneys' superpower. It helps in removing all the toxins and waste elements of our body. If you do not drink enough water harmful substances will get deposited in your body which will become the reason for different diseases. 

Exercising Regularly: Adopting a habit of exercising regularly benefits your kidneys just as it benefits your muscles. The blood flow in your body effectively flows when you exercise which improves the functioning of your kidneys. Also, high blood pressure and diabetes issues can be cured by regular exercise habits. 

Avoiding Smoking and Limiting Alcohol: Kidneys suffer the most when you have a habit of smoking. It leads to blood vessel damage and increased blood pressure which makes it tougher for kidneys to function properly. Similarly, drinking alcohol in excess might damage your kidneys badly. It's advised to refrain from smoking totally and take alcohol occasionally for healthy living. 

Monitoring Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two common illnesses that can gradually damage your kidneys over time. Regularly visit your doctor to monitor sugar and blood pressure levels and take necessary steps to keep them under control. This habit can lessen the stress on your kidneys and maintain their health. 
Avoiding Over-the-counter Painkillers: Painkillers may seem harmless and provide instant relief but if used excessively can damage your kidneys. It is crucial to stick to the specific dosage and speak with your doctor before choosing a painkiller. 

Getting Enough Sleep: Sleep is when your body wants to rest, repair, and recharge after a full day of work. But adults usually face health problems because of inadequate sleep including kidney issues. To give your kidneys the rest they require a quality sleep of 7-8 hours each night. 

Focussing on your kidney's health is a crucial part of maintaining your general health. You can prevent kidney-related illness by adopting a healthy lifestyle with healthy eating, drinking plenty of water and regular exercise, Avoiding bad habits of smoking and excessive alcohol drinking as well as monitoring blood pressure and sugar levels. All these measures will help your kidneys work efficiently and without any diseases. Always keep in mind that small efforts now can lead to a healthy future.