Your kidneys play an important role in your body to contribute to your overall health. They filter your blood, removing wastes and extra water to make urine. They also help control blood pressure and make hormones that your body needs to stay healthy.
According to the National Kidney Disease Education Program, diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes of kidney disease. If your screening noted high blood pressure or diabetes, you could have an increased risk.
Here are some important steps you can take to be kind to your kidneys:
1. Keep your blood pressure within a healthy range, which for most people is less than 140/90 mm Hg.
2. Salt or sodium is a driving factor. Try to eat less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium a day.
3. If you have diabetes, work with your health care provider and health coach to keep your blood sugar levels under control.
4. Follow the Healthy Lives Fundamentals to maintain a healthy weight, eat better and move more each day.
5. Do not drink alcohol or use tobacco.
About Healthy Lives
Healthy Lives is a unique approach to corporate wellness that helps employers improve their employees’ health and productivity and reduce healthcare costs through an unparalleled combination of deep clinical expertise, personal service and comprehensive solutions.