Kidneys: The Vital Organs that Keep Your Body Functioning
Jun 7th 2023
Why the kidneys are important to you!
Did you know that your kidneys play a vital role in keeping your body functioning properly? Most people are aware that their kidneys remove waste and excess fluids from their body, but did you know they also produce hormones and regulate blood pressure? Without your kidneys, your body couldn't maintain a stable balance of chemicals, regulate calcium metabolism, or control the production of red blood cells. In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into the importance of kidney function and explore the complex steps they take to keep your body healthy. [1][2]
The kidneys are vital organs responsible for several essential functions in the human body. Here are some of the key functions of the kidneys:
Filtration of Waste Products: The primary function of the kidneys is to filter and remove waste products, excess water, and toxins from the bloodstream. They receive blood from the renal arteries and filter it through a complex network of tiny structures called nephrons. These nephrons filter the blood, reabsorb necessary substances such as water, glucose, and electrolytes, and excrete waste products as urine.
Regulation of Fluid and Electrolyte Balance: The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. They regulate the concentration of various ions, including sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate, in the blood. By adjusting the amount of water reabsorbed or excreted in urine, the kidneys help maintain proper fluid balance and blood pressure.
Acid-Base Balance: The kidneys help regulate the body's acid-base balance by selectively reabsorbing or excreting hydrogen ions (acids) and bicarbonate ions (bases) as needed. This process helps maintain the pH of the blood within a narrow range, allowing normal cellular function.
Blood Pressure Regulation: The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. They produce a hormone called renin, which activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). The RAAS helps control blood pressure by adjusting the amount of water and sodium reabsorbed by the kidneys and constricting blood vessels.
Erythropoiesis Regulation: The kidneys secrete a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells (erythrocytes). Erythropoietin helps maintain adequate oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
Vitamin D Activation: The kidneys convert inactive vitamin D into its active form, known as calcitriol. Calcitriol helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body, promoting healthy bone formation and mineral metabolism.
Detoxification: The kidneys play a crucial role in eliminating various metabolic waste products, drugs, and toxins from the body. They filter these substances from the blood and excrete them in urine.
How to maintain good kidney health.
Maintaining healthy kidneys is essential for overall well-being. Here are some guidelines to help keep your kidneys healthy:
Stay Hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to promote proper kidney function. Water helps flush out toxins and waste products from the body. The recommended daily water intake varies based on factors such as climate, activity level, and individual needs.
Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eat a nutritious and balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed foods, sodium, and saturated and trans fats. A healthy diet helps prevent conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, which can contribute to kidney problems.
Control Blood Sugar Levels: If you have diabetes, it's crucial to manage your blood sugar levels effectively. High blood sugar can damage the kidneys over time. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for medication, diet, and lifestyle modifications to keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Exercise Regularly: Engage in regular physical activity as it helps promote overall health and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases that can affect the kidneys. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training exercises twice a week.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking can contribute to kidney damage and worsen existing kidney conditions. Quitting smoking is beneficial for your overall health, including kidney health.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can strain the kidneys and lead to long-term damage. It is advisable to consume alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether.
Practice Good Hygiene: Prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by practicing good hygiene habits, such as wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, staying hydrated, and urinating frequently. UTIs can progress to kidney infections if left untreated.
Avoid Overuse of Over-the-Counter Painkillers: Overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can harm the kidneys. Use these medications as directed, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns or need pain management options.
Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure (hypertension) is a leading cause of kidney disease. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and take steps to keep it within a healthy range. This includes adopting a low-sodium diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and following prescribed medications if necessary.
Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. They can monitor your kidney function through blood and urine tests and provide guidance on maintaining kidney health.
Natural Herbs for Kidney Health
Several herbs have been traditionally used to support kidney health and promote their proper functioning. Here are some herbs that have been traditionally associated with supporting kidney health:
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Dandelion root has been used in traditional medicine as a diuretic, promoting urine production and potentially assisting in the elimination of waste products. It may also contain antioxidant compounds that could have protective effects on kidney cells.
Nettle (Urtica dioica): Nettle leaves are often used in herbal preparations for their potential diuretic properties. They may help increase urine flow and support the elimination of waste products from the kidneys. Nettle also contains antioxidants that may offer protective effects.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): Astragalus root is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to support overall kidney health. It may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially protecting kidney cells from damage.
Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): Marshmallow root is known for its soothing and demulcent properties. It may help soothe irritated tissues in the urinary tract and promote a healthy urinary system.
Chanca Piedra (Phyllanthus niruri): Chanca Piedra is an herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Amazonian medicine to support kidney health. It is believed to possess diuretic properties and may assist in the passage of kidney stones.
Dan Shen Salvia miltiorrhiza or Chinese sage: Renal protective effects: Dan Shen has been investigated for its potential renoprotective effects in experimental models of kidney injury. Studies have suggested that it may help reduce kidney damage caused by conditions such as diabetic nephropathy, renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, and drug-induced kidney toxicity.
Corn Silk (Zea mays): Corn silk refers to the silky threads found on ears of corn. It has been used traditionally to support urinary tract health and promote urine flow. It may have mild diuretic properties and could assist in flushing out toxins from the kidneys.
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon): Cranberry is well-known for its potential benefits in urinary tract health. It may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can affect the kidneys if left untreated. Cranberry contains compounds that inhibit the adherence of bacteria to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of infection.
What To Avoid
If you have kidney disease, it is important to follow a kidney-friendly diet that helps manage the condition and supports your overall health. Here are some foods to avoid or limit if you have kidney disease:
Sodium (Salt): Excessive sodium intake can increase blood pressure and lead to fluid retention, putting a strain on the kidneys. Avoid high-sodium foods such as processed meats, canned soups, fast food, salty snacks, and condiments like soy sauce. Limit your overall salt intake by cooking with herbs and spices instead of salt and opting for fresh, unprocessed foods.
Potassium: In advanced stages of kidney disease, your kidneys may have difficulty balancing potassium levels in the blood. High potassium levels can cause irregular heart rhythms and other complications. Limit or avoid high-potassium foods such as bananas, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, avocados, and some legumes. Working with a registered dietitian can help you determine an appropriate potassium intake based on your individual needs.
Phosphorus: Damaged kidneys may struggle to filter phosphorus effectively, leading to high blood levels. Elevated phosphorus levels can weaken bones and cause cardiovascular problems. Limit or avoid high-phosphorus foods such as dairy products, processed meats, chocolate, nuts, and colas. It's also essential to be mindful of phosphorus additives commonly found in processed foods.
Protein: While protein is necessary for overall health, excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys. If you have kidney disease, your healthcare provider or dietitian may recommend limiting your protein intake. The amount will depend on the severity of your condition. Sources of high-quality, low-phosphorus protein include lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu can be suitable alternatives.
Fluids: As kidney function declines, it becomes important to monitor your fluid intake to prevent fluid overload and swelling. Your healthcare provider or dietitian may provide guidelines specific to your condition. Be mindful of not only beverages but also foods with high water content, such as soups, gelatin, and some fruits and vegetables.
Added sugars: Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues. Limit sugary foods and beverages, including soda, sweets, sugary cereals, and processed desserts.
It is important to note that herbal remedies should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. They are not meant to replace conventional medical treatment or to be used as a sole treatment for kidney conditions. If you have kidney concerns or are seeking support for kidney health, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide appropriate guidance and monitor your condition.
https://www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/howkidneyswrk