Kidneys are crucial organs for filtering out waste, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining the delicate balance of our body’s essential functions. Despite the importance of these bean-shaped organs, we often take their health for granted. Kidney issues are prevalent, affecting 37 million Americans. Compromised kidney function can hurt one’s overall quality of life. Luckily, there are actions we can take to protect our kidney health through lifestyle choices and natural remedies. This guide will discuss the importance of kidney health, emphasizing the risks of kidney disease. Then, we will uncover strategies for managing and maintaining kidney health, emphasizing natural supplements and remedies. Keeping these vital organs healthy promotes overall wellness and health throughout the body.

The Importance of Kidney Health

Kidneys, though small and often overlooked, serve as the body’s natural filtration system, purifying the blood by removing waste, excess fluids, and electrolytes. To remove waste from the body, the kidneys create urine using all the extra fluids and nutrients not absorbed by the blood system. This process helps these vital organs regulate the levels of many substances in the bloodstream, like sodium, potassium, and calcium. Kidneys ensure the body maintains the right balance of nutrients and vital substances to promote a healthy system.

Beyond its role as a filter, kidneys also manage blood pressure. These organs control the body’s blood volume and release hormones responsible for blood pressure management. Kidneys remove excess water and salt from the bloodstream, ensuring the blood pressure stays reasonable.

Additionally, the kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which signals the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. When the kidneys properly function, they support the body’s oxygenation, enhancing overall energy levels and cognitive function.

Risks of Kidney Disease

Kidneys are susceptible to various issues that compromise function and harm health. One common ailment is known as chronic kidney disease or chronic kidney failure. This condition is marked by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Chronic kidney disease has several risk factors, including diabetes and high blood pressure. This condition generally develops over time, but symptoms of kidney failure can include loss of appetite, hypertension that is hard to control, and swelling of the feet and ankles. If left uncontrolled, chronic kidney disease can be fatal. 

Another common kidney condition is kidney stones. These tiny, crystalline structures accumulate in the kidneys with excess salt and minerals. They can be excruciatingly painful and must be passed through the urinary tract.

Luckily, most kidney-related conditions are preventable with proper care and support.

Natural Remedies for Maintaining Kidney Health

Several ways to promote a healthy kidney include a balanced diet, regular exercise, lifestyle changes, and natural supplements.

Diet

Eating a balanced diet is one of the easiest ways to promote kidney health. Incorporating lots of fruits and vegetables into your daily eating habits helps your body get the necessary nutrients and antioxidants to keep it in tip-top shape. Studies show that a diet low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium can improve kidney health. Check nutrition labels for high-sodium foods and choose lower-sodium options. Keeping other substances, like potassium and phosphorus, at the right levels is important. When choosing foods, be aware of high potassium and phosphorus foods and adjust accordingly. Additionally, keep yourself hydrated, as adequate amounts of water help kidneys flush out toxins.

Exercise

Staying active is another great way to maintain your kidney health. Studies reveal that exercise, with adequate amounts of active rest, is beneficial for maintaining kidney function. Exercise increases blood flow and improves oxygen delivery to organs and other tissues. This helps maintain the function and health of the kidneys, allowing them to continue filtering the body’s waste.

Lifestyle Changes

The long-term effects of excessive drinking and smoking on kidney health can be detrimental. Smoking and drinking are associated with an increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Limiting these activities can prevent kidney disease and contribute to improved function.

Natural Supplements

Some natural supplements and ingredients may be beneficial to kidney health as well. In particular, astragalus is shown to support healthy kidneys. One study found that this purple flowering plant can reduce protein in the urine, revealing improved kidney health. This study also found that astragalus may be beneficial for managing kidney infections and preventing chronic kidney disease.

Supplements containing astragalus have numerous benefits beyond supporting kidney health including immune support, allergy relief, and reduced inflammation. If you are looking for kidney-friendly supplements, look no further than Wisdom in Wellness. They seek to create all-in-one supplement solutions to help consumers meet their health needs and goals. Shop their supplements today!