As we usher in the promising year 2024, there’s no better time to prioritize our health, and what better resolution than adopting a kidney-healthy lifestyle? In this blog post, we’ll explore practical and achievable New Year’s resolutions that can contribute to the well-being of your kidneys. Make 2024 a year of vibrant health and kidney-conscious choices!

Make a conscious effort to stay adequately hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports kidney function and helps flush out toxins. Consider setting daily water intake goals and carrying a reusable water bottle to stay on track.

Revamp your diet by incorporating kidney-friendly foods. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sodium intake to support blood pressure control, a key factor in kidney health. Consult a nutritionist for personalized dietary recommendations.

When was the last time you got a healthcare checkup? If it was over a year ago, it’s time to call up your healthcare provider and get scheduled. Why? Regular checkups help you detect potential health problems!

Many diseases, including kidney disease, don’t show symptoms in the early phases. This makes regular screenings crucial for timely diagnosis. Not all checkups include kidney function tests. Ask your healthcare professional for blood and urine tests to determine kidney health. 

Your home’s medicine cabinet likely contains pain medications called analgesics. These over-the-counter medications can help with headaches, fevers, and aches. But did you know that frequent use or high doses of these medicines can hurt the kidneys–even healthy ones. 

Examples of over-the-counter analgesics include:

• Aspirin  
• Acetaminophen 
• Ibuprofen 
• Ketoprofen 
• Naproxen sodium 

Prevent kidney issues from analgesics by: 

• Not using them excessively 
• Avoiding mixtures of painkillers in one pill 
• Staying hydrated 
• Not drinking alcohol with analgesics 

Regular physical activity benefits overall health, including your kidneys. Incorporate exercise into your routine, whether it’s brisk walking, cycling, or engaging in activities you enjoy. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to boost cardiovascular health.

Schedule regular health check-ups to monitor key indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. Understanding these numbers allows for early detection and management of potential risk factors for kidney disease.

Chronic stress can impact your overall well-being, including kidney health. Explore stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to promote mental and physical relaxation.

If you smoke, consider making 2024 the year you quit. Smoking is a risk factor for kidney disease and can exacerbate existing conditions. Seek support from friends, family, or a smoking cessation program to increase your chances of success.

Excessive alcohol consumption can strain the kidneys. Make a resolution to moderate your alcohol intake or consider abstaining altogether. If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and within recommended limits.

Quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment to support optimal rest.

You may be asking–how does finding a community help keep my kidneys healthy? According to the CDC, an increased sense of belonging can lead to a longer, healthier life! A community can also help you cope during difficult times. 

If finding a community sounds daunting, start small. Check out your local library, theater, or volunteer organizations. Look for online forums, book or hobby clubs, or live gaming groups. 

At Vascular Care Specialists of Los Angeles, we strive to provide the best service, care, and results possible. If you are interested in dialysis access treatment, give us a call at 626-275-9566 to schedule an appointment. You can also visit us at www.vcsla.com for more information.