Kidneys function as highly durable organs, yet their ability to recover from damage remains extremely limited. A new study reveals that even doctors can miss the early signs of disease due to “normal” kidney test results. However, these results can signal danger if they’re unusually low for someone’s age.
This can lead to the silent progression of kidney disease, which presents a major threat because most individuals fail to identify their condition until they reach a point of losing half their kidney function. While there may be gaps that need to be corrected, it’s best to prevent the problem by taking a careful approach.
Dr Topoti Mukherjee, Lead Consultant, Nephrology & Kidney Transplant at Aster Whitefield Hospital, told Moneycontrol, “People can safeguard their kidney health through their daily decision-making processes. The development of chronic kidney disease together with its extended health effects can be prevented through the implementation of specific behaviour patterns which people need to maintain throughout their lives.”
Dr Mukherjee suggested five simple, science-backed ways to look after your kidney health. These include:
High blood pressure and diabetes together account for nearly two-thirds of chronic kidney disease cases worldwide. “High blood sugar levels that continue to rise throughout the day cause damage to the small blood vessels which exist within the kidneys while high blood pressure creates excessive force inside the kidney’s filtering systems which results in gradual tissue damage. The most effective measures to protect kidneys involve regular monitoring together with prompt medical treatment and lifestyle modifications that maintain stable health measurements,” Dr Mukherjee said.
The kidneys receive protection from a balanced diet because it reduces both metabolic stress and inflammatory responses. The nephrologist added, “The kidneys must work harder when people consume too much salt because sodium intake causes increased blood pressure while ultra-processed foods create acidic substances that lead to oxidative damage in the body.” Kidney health improves through diets that contain fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant proteins and healthy fats. The kidneys need water to remove waste materials, but people must drink enough fluids during their daily activities.
One of the important causes which results in kidney damage from untreated pain medication which includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs remains unknown. “High-dose consumption of herbal supplements and detox products over extended periods of time creates dangerous risks to kidney health. Medical professionals must guide patients who use both medications and supplements because their current health problems already increase their risk of adverse effects,” Dr Mukherjee pointed out.
Physical activity enhances blood flow and insulin absorption and hypertension management which help maintain kidney health. The doctor said, “The combination of obesity and obesity-related factors leads to higher kidney disease risk because it increases both inflammation and metabolic stress. The kidneys benefit from regular movement because even moderate activities such as walking help decrease the organ’s workload.”
Doctors use basic blood tests and urine tests to find kidney damage which occurs before patients show any signs of the condition. “People with diabetes and high blood pressure and heart disease should pay special attention to their health because of their family history of kidney problems. Early detection allows timely intervention and prevents progression.”
Protecting your kidneys does not require extreme measures—just consistent, informed choices. By managing blood pressure and sugar, eating thoughtfully, using medications wisely, staying active, and testing early, kidney disease can often be delayed or prevented altogether.
Q. Why are healthy kidney habits important?
They help kidneys filter waste and prevent long-term disease.
Q. How much water should one drink for kidney health?
Enough to keep urine light yellow, unless advised otherwise by a doctor.
Q. Does diet affect kidney health?
Yes, low salt and balanced meals protect kidney function.
Q. Is excessive salt harmful to kidneys?
Yes, it raises blood pressure and strains kidneys.
Q. Does regular exercise support kidney health?
Yes, it helps control weight, blood pressure and blood sugar.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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