Kidney Functions, Risks & 8 Golden Rules of Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease

The kidneys are one of the most amazing organs of our body. Our kidneys’ main work is to remove excess water and toxins from the blood and also maintain and control our blood pressure, to produce red blood cells and keep our bones healthy. Our kidneys control blood stream levels of many minerals and molecules including sodium and potassium and control in helping our blood acidity. Our kidney also controls salt and water in our body.

Functions of our kidney: Did you know-

Your kidney:

• Makes urine
• Removes wastes and extra fluid from your blood
• Controls your body’s chemical balance
• Controls your blood pressure
• Helps keep your bones healthy
• Helps you make red blood cells

You Are at Risk of Developing Chronic Kidney Disease if you have any of the following:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• family history of kidney disease
• Obesity
• Smoking problem
• Age above 50 yrs
• If you are African/Hispanic/Asian origin
• If you have an Increase in eGFR
• If you have a high Serum Creatinine
• If you have excess protein in your urine
• If your UCAR – has increased more than 30mg/g

8 Golden Rules for Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease:

Kidney diseases are silent killers that largely affect our life. These are the easy ways to reduce the risk of developing kidney disease.

• Reduction of high blood pressure- The lower the blood pressure, the Slower the GFR, decline
• Specific medications to reduce proteinuria as well as lower BP- ACE/ARB drug
• Reduce salt intake to lower blood pressure
• Control of glucose / blood lipids / anemia
• Smoking cessation
• Increase of physical activity
• Control of body weight
• Limit your alcohol intake