PREVENTION
Preventing any disease before it
starts is always the best option. The NIDDK reports that you can reduce your
chances of developing chronic kidney disease by better managing other chronic
health conditions that can contribute to the loss of kidney function, such as
high blood pressure and diabetes. Dr. Joseph A. Vassalotti, chief medical
officer of the NKF and associate clinical professor of medicine in the division
of nephrology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, says
that avoiding kidney disease is one of the top “reasons to manage diabetes and
high blood pressure.”
The NIDDK also advises that you
“make healthy food choices” by opting for foods “that are healthy for
your heart and your entire body: fresh
fruits, fresh or frozen vegetables, whole grains and low-fat or fat-free dairy
products.” Aim to cut back on sugar and salt. The DASH diet has been linked with lowered blood pressure, and as such,
it is often recommended for those who are at risk of developing kidney disease
or who already have it.
Other strategies
for prevention include:
- Stopping smoking.
- Managing your weight.
- Staying active.
- Getting enough sleep.
- Limiting alcohol intake.
- Staying well hydrated.
You may also be advised to reduce
your protein intake because the kidneys have to
work harder to process the wastes that come from the breakdown of this
macronutrient.
