How to Be Kind to Your Kidneys At Any Age

Kidney function Prevention, daily life, and wellbeing Aging School and education

December 14, 2017

The basics of kidney health are not something you learn in school, but are definitely something you want to know. Afterall, your kidneys are vital organs, which means they are in a family with better known organs like your heart, your lungs and your brain. We promise there won’t be a pop quiz, but we explain a few important things to know about this vital part of your body so that you could ace any test!

Awareness. The things you may not know (but should) about kidneys.

First things first — you most likely have TWO kidneys. Just like your lungs, most people are born with two kidneys, though it is possible to be born with, or live with, just one. Your kidneys are located in your lower back and are each about the size of your fist. 

The main job of the kidneys is to filter wastes out of your blood. So, while your heart pumps the blood through your body, the kidneys make sure the blood stays clean - like your weekly chores, but all day, every day. 

Better Choices. The simple steps to heart your kidneys. 

It’s not hard to keep your kidneys healthy with a few easy steps:

  • Done with your homework? Play outside for 30 minutes - your video game will still be saved when you get back in and the exercise will keep your kidneys and your whole body healthy!

  • Thirsty from all that tag? Drink a big glass of water - hydration is key and water is a healthier choice than sugary sodas and sports drinks. Don’t believe us? Try drinking only water for three days and see how much clearer your pee gets!

  • Ready for a snack? Eat REAL food! We know this may sound weird. Isn’t all food real food?! Well, a lot of the things people eat are made from chemicals, are processed in factories, or have a lot of added sugars or salt. Try to stick to fruits and veggies rather than chips and candy, and, if you still need a sweet treat (we all do sometimes!), ask your parents if you can help bake something healthy at home so that you know what goes into each bite!  ​

Check-ups. The key to knowing your kidney health. 

We know that the yearly visit to your pediatrician may not be the most fun and that the lollipop doesn’t always make up for the shots - but - regular checkups with your doctor and really important to make sure that your kidneys, and the rest of your vital organs, are in fighting shape! 

The really good news? One way to get a head start on checking your kidney health is to take a urine sample - something you most likely already are doing when you go see the doc. Who knew your pee could tell you so much?