March is National Kidney Month, so what better time to turn our attention to kidney health? The kidneys are some of the most hard-working organs in the body, filtering blood up to 25 times every single day, making urine, and removing waste and excess fluid from the body! No matter your age, working to protect your kidneys can help prevent or slow kidney disease progression. Let’s take a look at a few tips you can follow to help maintain healthy kidneys.
Who Is At Risk of Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease can affect anyone of any age, but there are some factors that can increase the risk. If you suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney disease, then you are at a higher risk of developing kidney disease. If you are over the age of 65, then it is also more likely you could be at risk for kidney disease, and you should ask your primary care physician to check your kidneys regularly as a precautionary measure. You can lose as much as 60% of your kidney function before you start to notice any significant symptoms, which is why it is so important to take the necessary steps to keep your kidneys healthy now, especially if you are in one of these high-risk categories!
Managing Your Pre-existing Conditions
As noted above, pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease can elevate the risk of developing kidney disease, so it is important to make sure you have them under control. If you need assistance with maintaining your blood glucose goals and managing your diabetes, your local drug store in Powell, TN, can recommend monitoring tools. It is also possible to purchase a blood pressure monitor from your drug store in Powell, TN so that you can keep an eye on your numbers. With any illness, it is also crucial to remain compliant with your prescription medications in order to maintain control of the condition. If you struggle to do this or find yourself getting confused about which medications to take at what time, stop by your local drug store in Powell, TN, and ask about the VIP Pill Box, which puts all of your medications into easily opened packets marked with the date and time so that you never miss another dose!
Make Healthy Food Choices
A well-balanced diet rich in foods that are healthy for your heart will also do its part to keep your kidneys healthy. Make sure to have plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean meats, and fish. Cut back on your salt and sugar intake, too, for the maximum benefit. Make sure you get plenty of vitamins and minerals from your diet. However, if you are deficient in any essential nutrients, you can pick up over-the-counter vitamins and supplements at your local drug store in Powell, TN.
Increase Your Physical Activity
Physical activity is important to keep your heart healthy, which has a knock-on effect of keeping the rest of your organs healthy, too. Thirty minutes of daily activity is an excellent target to aim for. You don’t have to run for miles or pump iron in the gym. A brisk walk is an easy way to get your heart rate up.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep on your overall health and well-being. This is the time for your body to rest and recuperate from your daily activities, so it is essential that you get 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep every night. Make sure to practice good sleep hygiene, and if you need a little extra help to get to sleep, talk to your local drug store in Powell, TN, about over-the-counter sleep aids.
Give Up Smoking & Alcohol
Smoking can impact all aspects of your health as it damages your entire body, so a good way to keep your kidneys healthy is to work on kicking the habit. Talk to your local drug store in Powell, TN, for support in stopping smoking. A range of over-the-counter cessation products, such as nicotine gum and patches, are available to purchase. If you drink alcohol, you may also wish to consider limiting the amount, as excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure.
Reduce Stress
Stress can be a considerable factor in exacerbating existing conditions, and even in a healthy person, it can start to manifest physical symptoms. If you have high stress levels in your life, consider looking into ways to reduce this, including meditation, yoga, or mindfulness activities.
These are just some of the steps you can take to help maintain your kidney health. If you look after your body, it will look after you! If you need any additional advice on protecting your kidneys, talk to a pharmacist at your local drugstore in Powell, TN.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581