Kidney disease is a growing health concern in the Philippines, affecting an increasing number of Filipinos each year. In fact, according to the Department of Health, kidney disease is one of the leading causes of death in the country. There are many factors that contribute to the high incidence of kidney disease in the Philippines, but one of the most common causes is uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension.
Kidneys are two of the most vital organs in your body, responsible for filtering waste products from your blood, regulating fluid balance, and performing other crucial functions. Keeping your kidneys healthy is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing serious problems, such as kidney disease.
Here are some tips for maintaining healthy kidneys:
1.Hydration: Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for your kidneys. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, or more if you are active or live in a hot climate. Dehydration can increase the risk of kidney stones and can cause your kidneys to become less efficient.
2.Diet: Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt and high in fruits and vegetables can help protect your kidneys. Processed and high-fat foods can put stress on your kidneys and increase the risk of kidney disease. Limit your intake of red meat and dairy products, as these can also be hard on your kidneys.
3.Exercise: Regular exercise is important for maintaining overall health, including kidney health. It can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of kidney disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
4.Smoking: Smoking can cause a range of health problems, including kidney disease. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy or other quit-smoking aids.
5.Blood pressure control: High blood pressure can cause damage to your kidneys over time. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to control it. Losing weight, exercising, and eating a healthy diet can also help lower your blood pressure.
6.Monitoring for diabetes: People with diabetes are at increased risk for kidney disease. If you have diabetes, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels and see your doctor regularly to check for kidney problems.
7.Avoiding over-the-counter pain medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can put stress on your kidneys and increase the risk of kidney disease. If you need pain relief, talk to your doctor about alternative treatments or prescription pain medications.
8.Getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep can increase the risk of health problems, including kidney disease. Aim to get at least seven hours of sleep each night.
9.Regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with your doctor can help you catch kidney problems early. Your doctor will test your blood and urine to check for signs of kidney disease, and can recommend treatment if needed.
10.Avoiding exposure to toxins: Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins, such as pesticides and heavy metals, can increase the risk of kidney disease. To reduce your exposure, choose organic foods whenever possible and avoid handling toxic chemicals without proper protective equipment.
Taking care of your kidneys is important for maintaining overall health and well-being. By following these tips, you can help keep your kidneys functioning properly for years to come. Remember, your kidneys are your body’s silent superheroes, so give them the love and care they deserve!
About The Author
Dr. Coco is a highly-educated and well-qualified primary care physician who graduated from the University of the Philippines Baguio with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. She completed her three-year residency training in Family Medicine at Brokenshire Medical Center. She passed her diplomate exams in Family Medicine, given by the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians in 2018.
Dr. Coco is dedicated to providing comprehensive and holistic care for her patients. She is a primary care physician who believes in delivering continuing comprehensive health care for all. To her, patients are not just a number as she takes time to analyse how she can improve their overall health every chance they can get.
