Hello Doctor,
I’ve been reading a lot about kidney health lately, and I’m concerned about my risk of developing kidney disease in the future. I know certain lifestyle factors can influence kidney health, so I wanted to ask if there are any specific changes or modifications I should consider making to my daily routine or habits that could help lower my chances of developing kidney disease? For instance, should I adjust my diet, exercise, or even monitor certain health indicators more closely? I’d appreciate any advice on how I can improve my lifestyle to protect my kidneys long term.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
1. To help reduce your risk of developing kidney disease, it's important to focus on several key aspects of your lifestyle. First, controlling your blood pressure is crucial, as high blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time.
2. Aim to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range, ideally below 130/80 mmHg, through regular monitoring and lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake and managing stress.
3. Additionally, quitting smoking is essential. Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow to your kidneys, increasing your risk of kidney disease and other complications.
4. If you smoke, I strongly recommend working with your healthcare provider on a plan to quit.
5. Lastly, managing cholesterol levels is vital in preventing kidney disease.
6. High cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in blood vessels, impairing kidney function. A heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and possibly medication can help keep your cholesterol in check.
Thanks
Ask Multiple Doctors Online for Just $5!
Ask Now