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What are the kidneys?
The kidneys are two bean shaped organs that sit against muscles in the upper part of your stomach. There is one on the left side and one on the right side of your spine. The right kidney sits quite close to the liver.
The kidneys take waste away from the blood, and help the body balance fluids. They make urine (pee), and help with many other important body functions.
Healthline calls the kidneys a "powerhouse of activity". See a 3D image of the kidney and read more about the important jobs the kidneys do, including:
- removing waste
- controlling blood pressure
- balancing water levels
- controlling red blood cell production
- controlling acid
How do I keep my kidneys healthy?
Keeping your kidneys healthy is the best way to prevent kidney disease. Stopping disease before it starts is important because many people with kidney disease do not have any symptoms until it is too late. By the time it is found, most of the kidney function may be lost.
If you have one or more of the risk factors below, you may be at risk for kidney disease:
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- blood vessel diseases
- family history of kidney disease
- 55 years or older
- smoker
- obese (badly overweight)
- Aboriginal, Asian, South Asian, Pacific Island, African/Caribbean and Hispanic origin
Take the assessment tool from the Kidney Foundation of Canada to find risk factors and warning signs.
When your kidneys are no longer working well, you may need to change your diet. A Registered Dietitian can teach you which food choices will keep your kidneys as healthy as possible and help you to feel your best.
There are five nutrients that need to be considered when you have kidney disease:
Protein
Protein is a nutrient that builds, repairs and maintains your body tissues, fights infections and helps with wound healing. As your body breaks down protein foods, a waste product called urea is formed. If your kidneys cannot get rid of urea fast enough, it builds up in the blood and can make you feel unwell. Signs of high urea levels include tiredness, nausea, headaches and a bad taste in your mouth. If you eat too little protein, you may lose muscle, feel tired and have difficulty fighting infections. Your meal plan should provide enough protein for your body while limiting the amount of urea that is formed.
Sodium
Sodium affects your body fluids and blood pressure. It is important to limit your salt intake and avoid foods high in sodium, such as processed foods like "deli" meats, canned foods, convenience and "fast" foods and salty snacks.
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral needed for your nerves and muscles. Your body needs some potassium, but very high levels can cause heart problems. Many people with kidney disease do not need to limit their potassium intake, but if your levels become high, you may be told to avoid some high potassium foods.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a mineral that keeps your bones strong and healthy. However, too much phosphorus may cause itchy skin or painful joints. When the kidneys start to fail, your blood phosphate level will rise. Therefore, you may need to limit certain foods such as milk, cheese and other dairy products, and protein foods such as meat, fish and poultry.
Fluids
Some people can drink as much as they like, while others need to limit their fluid intake. Ask your doctor what is right for you.
As kidney disease progresses, your dietary needs can change. Be sure to talk with your doctor and dietitian about your nutrition and how to best manage kidney disease.