March is National Kidney Month
Keep your kidneys healthy with these tips
It’s National Kidney Month, and kidney health is important for overall well-being as these organs play a vital role in maintaining our body’s internal balance. The kidneys help filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and produce hormones that aid in red blood cell production and bone health. When kidneys are not functioning properly, toxins can build up in the body, leading to various health issues such as high blood pressure, anemia, weak bones, and cardiovascular disease.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 33% of Americans are at risk of kidney disease. That means 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. could develop chronic kidney disease in the future and likely don’t even know it. Maintaining kidney health is especially crucial for seniors, as the risk of kidney disease typically increases with age. Here are some tips to help keep your kidneys healthy:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water helps your kidneys function properly by flushing out toxins and waste products.
- Eat a balanced diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help prevent conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, which can harm the kidneys.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help control blood pressure, reduce the risk of kidney disease, and improve overall health.
- Monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar levels: High blood pressure and diabetes are leading causes of kidney damage, so it’s essential to keep these under control.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair kidney function, so it’s best to either quit or moderate these habits.
Remember, prevention is key when it comes to kidney health. By following these tips and getting regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, you can help protect these vital organs and maintain optimal kidney health for many years to come.
DID YOU KNOW?
Last year, Elan Skilled Nursing and Rehab opened an on-site dialysis services unit, launching the first in-patient dialysis services and treatment unit within a skilled nursing facility in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
The 1,200-square-foot section of Elan’s renovated second floor includes the dialysis den, managed in partnership with DaVita Kidney Care, an international leader in renal care. The dialysis den has enhanced quality of life Elan’s short-term and long-term residents, who no longer have to travel outside the facility for their dialysis treatments.
Dr. Ken Sebastianelli has served as Medical Director for Elan Skilled Nursing and Rehab, a Jewish Senior Life Community, since 2012. Dr. Sebastianelli is a board-certified Internal Medicine practitioner with Prime Med Medical Group, and is affiliated with Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital. He is also a member of the Medical Executive Committee at Geisinger Community Medical Center.
