By Dr Karthiyayini Mahadevan, Head, Wellness and Wellbeing at Columbia Pacific Communitie
Introduction
Kidney plays an important role in eliminating waste products and conserving the essential and crucial substances for efficient functioning of the body. On an average, 180 litres of blood get filtered through the kidneys every day, of which only 1.5 litres get excreted as urine. Kidney is an extremely alert sense organ and ensures that the right substances are conserved, and the unwanted waste is excreted out of the body.
Embryological viewpoint:
Kidney is an organ which starts its journey and lays a trail starting from an area closer to neck, then down to the abdomen area and finally to the point where it is needed to be as its final form. Complex orchestrated interactions between various embryonic tissues, ensure the development of the kidney. Born out of these complexities, kidney works towards keeping the body in balance and works closely with the lungs in maintaining the body’s pH balance.
Detoxification of kidneys
Air conditioners require timely service of its filters to clear the clogging which happens over a period of time. Similarly, to have efficient kidneys and to avoid detoxification, one should follow the below tips:
1. Avoid processed foods and choose fresh fruits and vegetables.
2. Restrict salt intake and keep it to a limit of less than 2 gms.
3. Drink at least 2 litres of water everyday considering the local geographical weather conditions.
4. Maintain a healthy body weight.
5. Exercise regularly as per metabolic type.
6. Maintain normal blood pressure according to the age and BMI and ensure it is never above 140/90 mmHg.
7. Take measures to prevent diabetes.
8. Eat more plant-based food.
9. Detoxification should be considered to support the function of an agile kidney or if one has other co-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension etc.
10. Healthy lifestyle is a must for this complex organ to function with agility.
Diet for detoxification
Plant based food which are kidney friendly should be included in the diet, such as papaya, apple, cranberries, blue berries, kale, spinach, sweet potato, pineapple, peaches, celery, radish, summer squash, barley. A kidney friendly diet will help protect the kidney from further damage. If there are underlying risk factors such as coexisting comorbidities, then one must limit some food items and fluids, so that the other fluids and minerals such as electrolytes do not build up in the body.
Conclusion:
Preparing for the unexpected and supporting the vulnerable is the major role of the kidney. Even if all the organs don’t function efficiently, but the kidney does, then there is a possibility of life sustenance. This organ needs to be supported as it supports the vulnerable. It helps in forming effective red blood cells and bone health through certain hormones such as erythropoietin and vitamin D.
Approximately 1 of 3 adults with diabetes and 1 of 5 adults with high blood pressure may have a chronic kidney disease. Diabetes can also cause kidney diseases. Keeping blood sugar and blood pressure under control and switching to a healthy lifestyle will help live a better life. Choosing activities such as walking, swimming, bicycling, aerobics, dancing or any activity which involves movement of large muscle groups for longer period as part of daily routine will be beneficial. Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking also adds freshness to the kidneys. Mindfulness in all activities helps the kidney function well. Movement with awareness like yoga, tai-chi also helps in functioning of the kidney.