Kidney diseases are silent killers, which will largely affect your quality of life. There are however several easy ways to reduce the risk of developing kidney disease.

1. Stay fit and active

Staying fit helps reduce your blood pressure and therefore reduces the risk of Chronic Kidney Disease.

2. Monitor your blood pressure

Although many people may be aware that high blood pressure can cause strokes or heart attacks, few know that it is also the most common cause of kidney damage. Normal blood pressure level is 120/80. Between this level and 139/89, it is considered prehypertension and must adopt changes in lifestyle and diet. At 140/90 and above, you should discuss risks with your doctor and increase blood pressure levels regularly. High blood pressure is very likely to cause kidney damage when associated with other factors such as diabetes, high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

3. Maintain healthy fluid intake

Although clinical studies have not agreed on the ideal amount of water and other liquids that we must consume every day to maintain health, we have long been advised to drink 1.5 to 2 liters (3 to 4 liters) of water per day. Consuming lots of fluids helps the kidneys cleanse sodium, urea, and poisons from the body which, in turn, results in a “much lower risk” of chronic kidney disease.

4. Do not smoke

Smoking can slow blood flow to the kidneys. When less blood reaches the kidney, it damages their ability to function properly. Smoking also increases the risk of kidney cancer by about 50 percent.

The most important thing you can do to keep your kidneys safe is to take care of your body to reduce the chance of getting a disease that causes strain on your kidneys.