Ayurveda for kidney health

Kidney disease, also known as renal disease, often does not show any symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may start to appear, which can include:

Fatigue or weakness: As the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the body, when they are not functioning properly, waste products can build up and cause fatigue and weakness.

Swelling: Kidney disease can cause fluid buildup in the body, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or face.

Changes in urine: Kidney disease can cause changes in urine, such as blood in the urine, foamy urine, or decreased urine output.

High blood pressure: The kidneys help to regulate blood pressure, so when they are not functioning properly, it can lead to high blood pressure.

Nausea and vomiting: When waste products build up in the body, they can cause nausea and vomiting.

Loss of appetite: Kidney disease can cause a loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

Itching or dry skin: Kidney disease can cause a buildup of waste products in the blood, which can lead to itching or dry skin.

Sleep problems: Kidney disease can cause sleep problems, such as insomnia or restless leg syndrome.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can help to slow or even prevent the progression of the disease

How kidney stones occurs? 

Kidney stones are hard, crystalline deposits that form in the kidneys or urinary tract. They can vary in size, from small grains to large stones, and can cause a range of symptoms, including intense pain in the back or side, nausea, and vomiting.

The formation of kidney stones is a complex process that can be influenced by a variety of factors, including diet, genetics, and medical conditions. Here are the general steps that lead to kidney stone formation:

Concentrated urine: Urine naturally contains substances like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, which can form crystals if they become too concentrated in the urine.

Crystal formation: If the concentration of these substances becomes too high, they can begin to form crystals, which can stick together and grow larger over time.

Stone formation: As the crystals continue to grow, they can form into solid stones, which can vary in size and shape.

Blockage and pain: If the stones become large enough, they can block the flow of urine and cause pain and other symptoms. The location and size of the stone can affect the severity and location of the pain.

Factors that can increase the risk of developing kidney stones include:

Dehydration: When the body doesn’t get enough fluids, urine becomes more concentrated, which increases the risk of crystal formation.

Family history: A family history of kidney stones can increase the risk of developing them.

Diet: Eating a diet high in salt, animal protein, and sugar can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate, can also increase the risk of developing stones.

Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, gout, and inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.

Treatment of kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms. In some cases, small stones may pass on their own with home remedies like increased fluid intake and pain management. Larger stones may require medical intervention, such as shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or surgery.

Diet tips for kidney health

Following a healthy diet is an important part of maintaining good kidney health. Here are some diet tips that can help support healthy kidney function:

Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet is essential for overall health, including kidney health. Include a variety of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet.

Monitor your protein intake: Too much protein can put stress on the kidneys. The recommended daily intake of protein varies based on age, sex, and activity level, but in general, most adults should aim for about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. If you have kidney disease, your doctor may recommend a lower protein intake.

Limit your sodium intake: Too much sodium can raise blood pressure and put stress on the kidneys. Aim to consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, and even less if you have high blood pressure or kidney disease.

Limit your phosphorus intake: Foods high in phosphorus, such as dairy products, nuts, and beans, can be hard on the kidneys, especially for people with kidney disease. Your doctor may recommend limiting your phosphorus intake and taking phosphate binders to help control your levels.

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is important for kidney health. Aim to drink at least 8-10 cups of water per day, and more if you are physically active or live in a hot climate.

Limit your intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates: Foods that are high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can raise blood sugar levels and put stress on the kidneys. Try to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and sweets.

Avoid or limit alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure and kidney damage. Try to limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

It’s important to work with your doctor or a registered dietitian to develop a diet plan that is tailored to your individual needs and health concerns, especially if you have kidney disease or other medical conditions.

Food to avoid for kidney problems

If you have kidney problems, there are certain foods that you may need to avoid or limit to help protect your kidneys and prevent further damage. Here are some foods to watch out for:

Salt: Consuming too much salt can increase blood pressure and put stress on the kidneys. Avoid or limit salty foods, such as canned soups, processed meats, and snack foods.

Processed and fast foods: These foods are often high in sodium, preservatives, and other additives that can be harmful to the kidneys. Try to limit your intake of processed and fast foods.

High-potassium foods: If you have kidney problems, your doctor may recommend limiting your intake of high-potassium foods, such as bananas, oranges, potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes.

High-phosphorus foods: Foods that are high in phosphorus, such as dairy products, nuts, and beans, can be hard on the kidneys, especially for people with kidney disease. Your doctor may recommend limiting your phosphorus intake and taking phosphate binders to help control your levels.

High-protein foods: Consuming too much protein can put stress on the kidneys. If you have kidney problems, your doctor may recommend limiting your intake of high-protein foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.

Sugary foods and drinks: Foods and drinks that are high in sugar can raise blood sugar levels and put stress on the kidneys. Try to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and sweets.

Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure and kidney damage. Try to limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

It’s important to work with your doctor or a registered dietitian to develop a diet plan that is tailored to your individual needs and health concerns, especially if you have kidney disease or other medical conditions.

 

Ayurveda for kidney health

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent disease and promote wellness. Ayurveda offers many natural remedies and lifestyle recommendations to support kidney health. Here are some tips:

Make decoction ( काढ़ा) of these and drink twice daily :

• Triphala
• Ginger
• Palash
• Coriander
• Turmeric
• Gokshura
• Chandan

Plus:

 

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your kidneys functioning properly. The general recommendation is to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.

Follow a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet that is rich in whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Reduce your intake of processed and refined foods, as well as foods that are high in salt, sugar, and fat.

Reduce stress: Stress can have a negative impact on kidney health. Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help to improve kidney function and reduce the risk of kidney disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, most days of the week.

Use herbs and spices: Ayurveda offers many herbs and spices that can help to support kidney health, such as turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. Consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to determine which herbs and spices may be appropriate for your individual needs.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage the kidneys and lead to kidney disease.

Practice good sleep hygiene: Getting enough restful sleep is important for overall health, including kidney health. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and practice good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, keeping a regular sleep schedule, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.

It’s important to note that if you have a pre-existing kidney condition or any health concerns, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

 

Yoga to keep kidney healthy

 

Yoga can be a beneficial practice for maintaining good kidney health. Here are some yoga poses that may be helpful for promoting healthy kidneys:

Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose): Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bring the soles of your feet together and let your knees fall out to the sides. Hold onto your feet or ankles and gently flap your knees up and down, like the wings of a butterfly. This pose helps to stimulate the kidneys and promote circulation.

Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Fold): Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Inhale and reach your arms up overhead, then exhale and fold forward, reaching for your toes or ankles. This pose helps to promote circulation and release tension in the lower back and kidneys.

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Lie on your stomach with your palms flat on the floor next to your shoulders. Inhale and press into your palms, lifting your chest and head off the floor. This pose helps to stimulate the kidneys and promote circulation.

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose): Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and cross your right foot over your left knee, placing it on the floor. Twist to the right, placing your left elbow on the outside of your right knee and your right hand on the floor behind you. This pose helps to stimulate the kidneys and promote detoxification.

Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall Pose): Lie on your back with your legs extended up the wall. This pose helps to improve circulation and promote relaxation, which can be helpful for supporting kidney health.

Remember to always practice yoga with awareness and caution, and to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have any health conditions or concerns.