Your kidneys are major organs, responsible for ridding the body of waste, but health issues impeding kidney function are not that rare. Here, we take a look at why long-term kidney health matters, and then we take account of five natural remedies which can work to help protect your kidneys from health complications.
A Look at Kidney Health
A healthy individual is born with two kidneys, each of which is bean-shaped and about the size of a clenched fist. They reside below your ribs. The work of the kidneys makes them crucial, some medic al experts might even say as crucial as the heart and brain to sustaining human life.
It is common knowledge that the kidneys produce urine. While this is true, urine is merely a waste byproduct of the real work done by kidneys, which is acting as a cleanser for the blood circulating through your body. The kidneys work constantly to clean the blood, filtering about 1 liter (which is about one-fifth of all blood volume in the body) of blood each minute.
Multiple types of health issues related to the kidneys arise in some people. The most common long-term condition of the kidneys is chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is prevalent among individuals who have already experienced heart failure, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Other factors include obesity and family history of CKD. CKD occurs when bodily conditions have caused a breakdown in kidney function over time, usually due to another condition.
Risk of kidney disease can be reduced by avoiding risky behaviors, managing weight, and taking care of yourself. Conscientious choices for kidney health include those to reduce risk anemia (low red blood cell count), kidney stones, and urinary tract infections in the kidneys.
Supplements for Kidney Health
A range of dietary supplements have properties which can support the kidneys and the work that they do in the body. Some could even reduce risk or the complications of kidney-related disease. Here is a look at five of the best and most affordable supplements for supporting long-term kidney health:
B vitamins taken generously are positive for kidney health because the B vitamins are necessary for the production of red blood cells. A healthy blood cell count is necessary to avoid anemia, and anemia is often closely linked to kidney disease. The B vitamins, particularly B6, B9, and B12 can support healthy blood, reduce risk of anemia, and reduce the chance of kidney disease in general.
Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to regulate bodily inflammation, a benefit that extends to reduced risk of kidney disease. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids can benefit kidney functionality. Research shows these acids can also slow the progression of kidney disease, and it can also support heart health. Kidney and heart health often go hand-in-hand.
Magnesium has been researched for its effects in relation to the kidneys and has been found to be beneficial in a few specific ways. First, consuming sufficient amounts of magnesium can help prevent kidney disease. Magnesium deficiency could also be remedied by way of regular supplementation; This is true both for those with CKD, and those who are at risk of CKD. Remedying a magnesium deficiency could help prevent long-term kidney disease.
Probiotic bacteria ingested in supplement form can enhance the overall health of the gut microbiome, and support the health of the kidneys in turn. They help by removing toxins, reducing oxidative stress, and reducing inflammation. Lactobacillus casei and other probiotic bacteria have been found to be beneficial.
Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to help ensure bone health in those who have chronic kidney disease. Vitamin D deficiency is common in those with CKD because of the disruptions caused by the disease. Taking vitamin D could remedy a deficiency, and help the body process calcium, so that it is not affected by poor calcium or vitamin D absorption. Vitamin D could help preserve bone health in those with chronic kidney disease.
If you are at risk of kidney disease, have a family member with it, or are simply seeking to preserve your kidney health out of a desire to remain healthy, then consider these supplements! It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking a supplement.