The summer season is a time when many people enjoy vacations, picnics, and outdoor activities. During the summer, many people also enjoy taking the time to focus on their health. Whether it’s trying a new summer diet or going for a run in the park, people often want to improve their health during the warmer months.
While it’s necessary for everyone to take time to focus on their health, it’s particularly crucial for those with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially when the weather is hot. However, even if you do not have CKD, finding ways to improve kidney health is still essential this summer.
Tips to Improve Kidney Health
Your kidneys play an integral role in keeping your body healthy and functioning properly. They remove waste from your blood, regulate fluid levels in your body, and produce hormones that help control your blood pressure.
When your kidneys are not working correctly, it may lead to a buildup of toxins in your body, making you feel sick. Being sick while your friends and family are out enjoying the summer sun can be frustrating, but by following these tips, you may improve your kidney health and enjoy all the summer season has to offer.
1. Avoid Soda and Other Sweetened Beverages
During a hot summer day, it may be tempting to reach for a cold soda or sweetened iced tea to quench your thirst. However, these sugary drinks may worsen kidney function. Sugar impacts your kidneys by increasing blood sugar levels, which may lead to diabetes.
Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease, so avoiding sugary drinks is important if you want to protect your kidney health. If you’re craving something other than water, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
When it’s hot outside, you may need to drink more water than usual to stay hydrated. It’s important to drink enough water because dehydration may make kidney problems worse. When you are dehydrated, waste and acid build up in your body, thus clogging your kidneys. In addition, drinking plenty of water may prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections, both of which strain your kidneys.
If you have trouble drinking enough water, try carrying a water bottle with you wherever you go or set reminders on your phone to drink water throughout the day. You can also add fruit to your water to make it more flavorful and enjoyable.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption
With summer in full swing, it’s easy to get caught up in all the outdoor barbecues, pool parties, and beach days. While a glass of wine or beer here and there is unlikely to cause harm, it’s important to limit your alcohol consumption to maintain kidney health.
Excessive alcohol consumption may lead to dehydration, which, as discussed, is bad for your kidneys. Furthermore, alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes you to urinate more frequently. When you urinate too often, your body loses essential minerals and electrolytes, which may lead to kidney stones. If you do drink alcohol this summer, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking water in between alcoholic beverages.
4. Stay Active
Regularly exercising is good for more than just working on your summer beach body. Exercise helps improve blood circulation, which is imperative when trying to improve kidney health. Poor circulation may cause a buildup of toxins and fluid in your kidneys, but regular physical activity helps improve blood flow and prevents these issues.
Furthermore, exercise may help reduce your risk of developing obesity, high blood pressure, and type II diabetes – all conditions that may lead to kidney disease. So this summer, don’t just lounge by the pool – go for a swim, take a walk, or ride your bike around the neighborhood.
Visit The Kidney and Hypertension Center this Summer
Even if you are following all of these tips, it’s still important to visit The Kidney and Hypertension Center for regular checkups. We offer a wide range of services to improve kidney health and prevent kidney disease.
If you have CKD or are at risk for CKD, our team can help you manage your condition and slow the progression of the disease. We offer comprehensive care and cutting-edge treatments, all tailored to your individual needs. So this summer, don’t forget to make an appointment at The Kidney and Hypertension Center. Contact us today and receive the care you deserve.
