Your kidneys may be small, but they play a big role in keeping your body balanced and
healthy. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize their kidneys are in trouble until
serious damage has already occurred.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, over 37 million adults in the United
States have kidney disease—and most don’t even know it. Certain groups, including
African Americans, are at greater risk due to higher rates of high blood pressure and
diabetes, both of which can damage the kidneys over time (CDC.gov).
Why the Kidneys Matter
Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that do much more than filter waste. Their
key functions include:
Removing toxins and excess fluid from the blood
Producing hormones that help regulate blood pressure
Supporting red blood cell production
Balancing minerals and electrolytes in the body
Most people are born with two kidneys, but it’s possible to live a healthy life with just
one. In very rare cases, a person may even be born with three!
When the Kidneys Struggle
When the kidneys aren’t functioning properly, waste and fluid start to build up in the
body. This can lead to symptoms such as:
Fatigue or weakness
Swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles
Changes in blood pressure
Low back or flank pain
Difficulty concentrating
Over time, this may progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD)—a condition defined
by kidney dysfunction lasting three months or longer. In severe cases, dialysis or
kidney transplant may become necessary (NHS.uk).
Common Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing kidney problems, including:
Family history of kidney disease
Chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension
Certain medications or drug use
Age (especially over 60)
Ethnicity – African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, Pacific Islanders, and
American Indians are at higher risk (National Kidney Foundation)
Take a Quick Kidney Health Quiz
Curious about your risk? Take this free quiz from the National Kidney Foundation:
Are You at Risk for Kidney Disease?
What You Can Do
The first step toward prevention is awareness. Pay attention to your body and don’t
ignore unusual symptoms. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, work closely
with your healthcare provider to keep them under control.
Ask your provider about routine lab tests that help assess kidney health, including:
Urinalysis
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Serum Creatinine and eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate)
Albumin level
These simple tests can catch early signs of kidney damage before symptoms appear.
If you fall into a high-risk category or simply want to be proactive, you can get tested
without a doctor’s order at:
ARCpoint Labs of Grand Prairie South
Nourish Your Kidneys Naturally
Supporting kidney health isn’t just about lab tests—it’s also about lifestyle. Some foods
that help promote kidney wellness include:
Cabbage and leafy greens
Berries
Fish rich in omega-3s
Olive oil
Small, consistent choices make a big difference for your long-term health and vitality.
#HolisticHealthGodsWay
#Livingwell
#KidneyHealthMatters
References
NHS Kidney Health Guide (PDF)
CDC: Chronic Kidney Disease by Race/Ethnicity
National Kidney
