Here are ways to support kidney health.
Your kidneys play a vital role in your health. Without them your body could not absorb nutrients or filter waste and toxins. March is National Kidney Month, and March 10 is World Kidney Day. In keeping with this theme, this post is designed to overview the importance of kidney health, as well as natural ways to support your kidneys.
Your Kidneys – The Basics
Your kidneys are fist-sized organs located at the bottom of the rib cage on either side of the body. They are part of the renal system, which eliminates waste and supports detoxification. The kidneys were created to function beyond capacity, which is why you can donate one and still live a healthy life. In fact, 1 kidney functioning at only 75% of capacity can sustain a healthy human body with minimal issue.
The Body’s Filter
As part of the renal, or urinary system, the kidneys have several main functions. The kidneys filter roughly 200 quarts of fluid every day, returning beneficial substances to the body and eliminating waste in the form of urine. Roughly 198 quarts are returned to the body, while 2 quarts are excreted through urine over a 24 hour period.
Role in Nutrient Absorption
Your kidneys play a key role in helping your body absorb essential nutrients. For example, kidneys activate the form of vitamin D necessary for calcium absorption. They also work to regulate Ph levels, salt, potassium, and blood pressure.
Diabetes and Kidney Function
There are a number of things that can cause a loss of or decline in kidney function, with the number one cause being diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels may cause clogs in the kidneys leading to a decline in function. Diabetes can also cause nerve damage that causes a decrease in bladder function and normal elimination. The pressure of a consistently full bladder can cause damage to all parts of the renal system.
Supporting Healthy Kidneys
Although some kidney disease is genetic, such as polycystic kidney disease and predisposition to kidney stones, most kidney disease is created through a poor diet, a lack of activity, and other less than healthy habits.
The best way to support your kidneys is to maintain an active lifestyle, paired with a healthy diet. Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a diet low in processed foods keeps excess amounts of sugar and salt from building up in your kidneys and causing blockages or painful kidney stones.
Supplements to Support Kidney Health
The Professional Supplement Center store carries a number of products designed to support kidney health, here are a few we recommend.
Kidney Support by Professional Botanicals
Containing a proprietary blend of European Goldenrod leaf, fenugreek seed, hydrangea root, plantain leaf, horsetail aerial, cordyceps mycelium, and other adaptogens, Kidney Support by Professional Botanicals is a natural way to support kidney health and detoxification.
Rentone by Ayush Herbs
Rentone by Ayush Herbs is a formula designed for kidney and urinary support with a unique combination of Eastern and Western herbs. Using a blend of shilajeet, vitamin B, cranberry, and other natural ingredients this supplement provides nutritional support for kidney health.
What steps are you taking to support kidney health this March and throughout the year? Share your favorite products of lifestyle hacks with our team in the comments section below.
