How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy and in Check

They’re small but powerful organs that keep our bodies balanced and toxin-free. Yet, many Filipinos unknowingly risk their kidney health every day. With kidney disease often progressing without symptoms, it’s more important than ever to understand how to take care of your kidneys, especially during National Kidney Month this June.

Why Kidneys Deserve Your Attention

Your kidneys work 24/7 to filter out waste, balance electrolytes, and regulate blood pressure. They produce hormones, manage fluid levels, and even control the body’s production of red blood cells.

But despite these essential roles, kidney health is often overlooked. The Department of Health (DOH) estimates that kidney disease is among the top causes of death in the Philippines. Worse, many don’t realize they have a problem until it's too late. That’s why raising awareness this National Kidney Month is vital.

What Happens When Kidneys Are Not Healthy?

Here are some of the common kidney-related diseases every Filipino should know:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): This is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly over time. It often develops silently and is commonly linked to long-standing health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

• Kidney Stones: These are hard mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys, often causing severe pain when they move through the urinary tract. They can also lead to blockages, infections, or even permanent kidney damage if not treated early.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system and multiply, leading to inflammation and discomfort. If left untreated, the infection can ascend to the kidneys, potentially resulting in more serious conditions like pyelonephritis.

• Acute Kidney Injury: This condition happens suddenly and is marked by a rapid decline in kidney function. It can be triggered by severe dehydration, infections, trauma, or certain medications, and requires immediate medical attention to prevent long-term complications.

These conditions can lead to kidney failure, which may require dialysis or even a kidney transplant.

How to Take Care of Your Kidneys

Here’s how you can protect your kidneys and avoid complications down the line:

1. Stay Hydrated – But Not Too Much. Drinking the right amount of water each day helps your kidneys effectively flush out toxins and waste products from your blood. The ideal amount is typically 8-10 glasses daily, but needs may vary depending on your activity level and environment. Be cautious of drinking too much water, as overhydration can strain your kidneys and dilute vital electrolytes in your system.
2. Manage Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure. Uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure are among the leading causes of kidney damage. When these conditions are not properly managed, they can impair the small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste. Routine monitoring, medication adherence, and a healthy lifestyle play major roles in preventing these issues from affecting your kidney health.
3. Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet. What you eat directly affects how hard your kidneys have to work. Consuming more plant-based foods and those low in sodium can reduce the burden on your kidneys. Including kidney-friendly options like leafy greens, apples, and fatty fish can help maintain proper function, while limiting processed and salty foods helps prevent strain and long-term damage.
4. Avoid Self-Medicating. Taking medications without medical guidance, especially pain relievers like NSAIDs, can lead to kidney inflammation or damage over time. Some herbal or dietary supplements may also contain ingredients that can harm your kidneys. Always consult your doctor before taking any new drug or supplement to avoid unwanted complications.
5. Exercise Regularly. Consistent physical activity helps lower blood pressure and control blood sugar—both of which are essential for kidney health. Exercise also aids in weight management and improves cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of diseases that could harm the kidneys. Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week is a great goal.
6. Get Regular Screening. Early detection of kidney issues can make a huge difference in treatment outcomes. If you are at higher risk, such as having diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease, getting tested at least once a year is crucial. Regular check-ups allow doctors to monitor your kidney function and catch any signs of decline before it becomes serious.

Misconceptions to Avoid

• “I’ll feel it if something’s wrong with my kidneys.”
  Many people believe that kidney problems will present clear symptoms early on, but this is rarely the case. Kidney disease often progresses silently, only showing signs once significant damage has already occurred.

• “Drinking more water flushes everything.”
  Staying hydrated is important for kidney function, but drinking excessive amounts of water won’t magically detox your body. In fact, overhydration can dilute essential electrolytes and put unnecessary strain on your kidneys.

• “Only old people get kidney disease.”
  While aging increases risk, kidney disease can affect people of all ages. Children, teens, and young adults with underlying health issues or poor lifestyle habits are also susceptible.

Celebrating National Kidney Month

June is National Kidney Month in the Philippines, a perfect time to spread awareness and encourage people to adopt healthy habits. DOH, NKTI (National Kidney and Transplant Institute), and local health offices often run free screenings, webinars, and campaigns during this period.

You can join by:

• Sharing educational content
• Supporting blood pressure and sugar monitoring initiatives
• Encouraging your family and kapitbahay to get checked

Prevention is better than dialysis. You don’t have to wait for symptoms to start caring for your kidneys. By embracing healthier food choices, avoiding risky habits, and getting checked regularly, you can safeguard your kidney health for life.

As we mark National Kidney Month, let’s take small steps today that lead to a healthier tomorrow. Because at MyPharma, #YourKapitbahayCares and your well-being are always worth the effort. - (MyPharma)

References:

1. https://law.upd.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/DOH-Administrative-Order-No-2021-0010.pdf
2. https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd
3. https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/kidney-stones
4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/
5. https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/acute-kidney-injury-aki
6. https://www.cdc.gov/kidney-disease/prevention/index.html
7. https://www.supremehospitals.in/kidney-health-myths-and-what-you-need-to-know-for-better-kidney-care/