Your kidneys are two vital, bean-shaped organs located just below your rib cage, one on each side of your spine. They are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from your body to maintain a stable balance of blood composition. Every day, the kidneys filter around 120 to 150 quarts of blood to produce 1 to 2 quarts of urine, which contains waste and extra fluid. This process helps regulate important bodily functions, from electrolyte balance to blood pressure and red blood cell production.
The kidneys also play a key role in keeping your bones strong, making hormones that regulate various essential body functions. This makes your kidneys incredibly important in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Maintaining healthy kidneys is essential because they help keep your body’s systems in balance. Without functioning kidneys, the waste and extra fluid that the body needs to eliminate can build up, leading to potentially serious health problems. The kidneys also help maintain the right levels of electrolytes, like sodium, potassium, and phosphate, which are necessary for healthy muscle function, heart rhythm, and nerve communication.
For people diagnosed with kidney disease, managing kidney function and staying healthy requires a combination of lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, and, when necessary, medical treatment. One of the most effective ways to protect your kidney health is through a carefully planned diet and regular physical activity.
Food and beverages provide the energy and nutrients needed to support your health and manage conditions like kidney disease. Depending on the type and stage of kidney disease, you may need to make adjustments to your diet. For instance, you may need to limit the amount of certain nutrients, like sodium, potassium, or phosphorus, which can build up when kidney function is impaired.
At Dallas Renal Group, we understand that managing kidney disease involves more than just medical treatment. That’s why we provide resources to help you understand what, when, and how much to eat and drink to maintain kidney health. The National Kidney Disease Education Program (NKDEP) and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) offer valuable information on nutrition, such as how to read food labels and manage your intake of specific ingredients. By following these guidelines, you can help prevent kidney stones and manage the progression of kidney disease.
Explore these resources for valuable insights on managing your diet and nutrition to support kidney health.
Physical activity is another essential component of kidney health. Regular exercise helps your muscles, bones, and heart grow stronger, and it improves circulation, ensuring that your body receives the oxygen it needs to function properly. For people undergoing dialysis, physical activity helps improve blood flow, aiding the removal of waste during treatments.
Exercise also plays a crucial role in managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which are common causes of kidney disease. In fact, physical activity can boost your mood, improve mental health, and give you a sense of well-being. Whether you’re walking, swimming, or even gardening, any form of physical activity is beneficial for kidney health.
If you’re unsure where to begin, start with easier activities such as walking at a normal pace or light stretching. Work up to more intense activities like brisk walking or swimming. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week, and always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
At Dallas Renal Group, our team of experts is committed to helping you maintain healthy kidneys and manage any kidney conditions you may be facing. We believe in a holistic approach to care that includes diet, exercise, and proper medical treatment. Whether you’re managing kidney disease or simply want to improve your overall kidney health, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
If you have any concerns about your kidney function or need help managing kidney disease, please reach out to Dallas Renal Group. Our team is ready to support you in every step of your kidney care journey.
Our nephrology team meets with you to understand your medical history, current kidney condition, and health goals.
We prepare an individualized kidney care plan based on your specific diagnosis and treatment needs.
We coordinate the necessary resources—medications, equipment, and support services to ensure effective renal care delivery.
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