Keeping your kidneys healthy is something you would not
think about during the day. Kidneys are about the size of a fist and are shaped
like beans. Yet, kidneys have three important functions so the body can stay
healthy. First, the kidneys eliminate extra water, fluids, and waste from the
body. It filters everything through the urine.
Additionally, it filters the blood and produces red blood cells that give oxygen to the body. Second, it produces a hormone and vitamin D. It helps to balance the minerals the body needs such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and sodium. The kidneys are in the back of the abdomen. Furthermore, the kidneys are one of the important organs to think about before drinking too much alcohol.
Too much alcohol and drugs damage the kidneys which makes them function improperly. It increases the risk of kidney stones. Kidney stones produce pain in the back, sides, abdomen, and groin. Nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine, fever, chills, and other symptoms are developed because of kidney stones. Dehydration from alcohol increases the risk.
Therefore, it is necessary to be conscious of how many
alcoholic drinks are consumed. Third, the kidneys eliminate drugs from the
body. Every year in March is National Kidney Month with a different theme. This
year's theme is " Have More Healthy Moments: Get Tested and Follow Your
Kidney Health." A urine test evaluates the amount of protein, and checks
for diabetes, and kidney issues.
Some medications affect the kidneys. Consult with your primary doctor if you are concerned about your kidneys and the medications that you take for pain. Anti-inflammatory medications may damage the kidneys over time. Kidney disease has no symptoms at the beginning of the disease. Moreover, the kidneys help control your blood pressure.
Eat healthier to keep your kidneys healthy. Drink eight glasses of water or discuss with your doctor about hydrating your body. Foods that help the kidneys are leafy green vegetables, seafood, bell peppers, and a low-sodium diet. Always speak with your doctor for more tips and advice on keeping your kidneys healthy. Below are website links about kidneys, alcohol, and other information.
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| Courtesy Image from National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |
How Alcohol Affects Your Kidney Health-Cleveland Clinic:
How Alcohol Affects Your Kidney Health – Cleveland Clinic
Alcohol and Your Kidneys-National Kidney Foundation:
Alcohol and Your Kidneys | National Kidney Foundation
National Kidney Month 2023-NIDDK (NIH GOV):
National Kidney Month 2023 - NIDDK (nih.gov)
The National Kidney Foundation:
Welcome - The National Kidney Foundation
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