Getting Healthy for Your Kidneys

Did you know that, in some cases, kidney disease is preventable? While genetics can play a part, overall general health is one of the biggest factors in the risk for kidney disease. Let’s explore four ways you can get healthy for your kidneys!

1. Healthy Diet: Try to eat a balanced, whole foods diet. Whole foods, or foods as close to the natural state as possible, will give the most nutrients and nourishment. Additionally, by reading and understanding your food labels, you can make better choices at the grocery store. By choosing less processed foods, you are reducing the amount of additives that can potentially be harmful to your health. As a general rule of thumb, if you follow a diabetes or cardiovascular diet, you are already following a kidney-friendly diet. 
   

1. Movement and Healthy Weight: Movement looks different for everyone. Walking is a great example of light movement that just about anyone can do. Some benefits of walking and regular movement include:
   
   1. Improved cardiovascular health
      
   2. Improved balance
      
   3. Weight management and body fat reduction
      
   4. Increased energy levels
      
   5. Reduced stress and tension
      
   6. Prevents or manages chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes
      

Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight reduces unnecessary strain on your body as well as reduces the risk of developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even some cancers.

1. Medical Maintenance: It is so important to keep up with your specialty appointments, annual physicals, routine lab work, and medication refills. Regular appointments and lab work help to monitor your health status and manage chronic conditions that may be contributing factors for Chronic Kidney Disease, like hypertension and diabetes. It is also equally important to take your medications as prescribed and communicate with your care team when you feel changes need to be made. 
   

1. Empower Yourself: If you have a concern about your risk for Chronic Kidney Disease, read information from reliable sources and ask questions at your doctor appointments. You can also document your family’s medical history to help you and your care team assess and understand your risk. 
   

Getting healthy looks different for everyone, so start small and don’t overwhelm yourself. Being 1% better than yesterday is still an improvement. If you have questions or concerns about your kidney health, make an appointment with your Primary Care or Dr. Munjal to discuss. As always, stay safe and healthy!

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