Kidneys are self-cleansing organs responsible for the removal of toxins and waste from the blood, while increasing RBC production and stabilising blood pressure. To support its functioning, it requires adequate amount of fluid content in our body, proper diet and moderate level of physical exercise. Unfortunately, our lifestyle choices coupled with food habits puts enormous pressure on the proper functioning of kidneys.
Kidney diseases are silent killers and largely affects the quality of life once affected by it. However, there are several ways to reduce the risk of developing these diseases to maintain a healthy pair of kidneys.
Here are the top 5 ways to keep your kidneys healthy and functioning:
- Stay Hydrated
Maintain a healthy fluid intake of at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day. Consuming plenty of fluids help kidneys in clearing sodium, urea and toxins from the body, resulting in a significantly lower chance of developing kidney diseases. However, excessive consumption of fluids can cause side effects, forcing the kidneys to over-function filtering the excess toxins.
- Control blood pressure and sugar levels
High blood pressure, when associated with diabetes, high-cholesterol and cardio-vascular diseases are likely to cause kidney damage. Though high blood pressure is linked to chances of a stroke or heart attack, only a few are aware that the most common cause for it is kidney damage. Thus, taking regular check-ups help in understanding kidney functioning and prevents/reduce any chances for kidney damage.
- Proper Diet
Follow a balanced and nutritious diet comprising of fibrous fruits and vegetables to ensure good health of the kidneys and maintain an ideal body weight. Avoid processed or fast food and most importantly, reduce your salt intake. The recommended sodium intake for a person per day is 5-6 grams i.e., around a teaspoon. Having coconut water, watermelon and carrot juice helps to relieve kidney troubles. Opt for a low-protein diet rather than a high-protein one as it could increase the burden on kidneys. Consuming superfoods like apples, grapes, blueberries, garlic and cabbage ensures healthy kidneys. Having Amla juice is recommended to remove toxins, preventing the formation of kidney stones.
- Kidney Detox
Ayurveda recommends periodic cleansing to reduce ama levels and using diuretic herbs like Brahmi, Punarnava, Varuna, Parsley and Celery aid in flushing out the kidneys and urinary tract. Consume herbal tea by boiling any of these herbs in 2 cups of water and steep for 15 minutes.
Home Remedies:
- Having a glass of pomegranate juice rich in anti-oxidants benefits kidney patients, improves cardiovascular health and removes free radicals.
- Consume liquorice in powdered form, as candy or add it to your herbal tea for stimulating kidney functioning.
- Cook two or three cups of beetroot until it softens. Blend and strain the liquid and consume it on a daily basis.
- Mix one tablespoon of tulsi leaves with honey and consume it in the morning for about 5 to 6 months.
- Start your day by having tomato juice with a tint of pepper and salt. It is beneficial for people with kidney failure.
- Drink coconut water and barley water regularly.
Practicing the aforesaid easy yet effective ways will help in keeping your kidneys healthy. If you suffer from diabetes, hypertension, obesity or if any one of your family members have kidney related illnesses, get your kidney checked by an Ayurvedic Physician at the earliest.
