Understanding Kidney Health: Functions, Risks, and Prevention

The kidneys are vital organs that require careful management to prevent irreversible damage.

### The Important Role of Kidneys
The kidneys, two bean-shaped organs, measure about **5 cm in width** and **10 to 12 cm in length**, with the right kidney positioned **slightly lower than the left**. They contain around **a million nephrons** that filter waste from the blood, with approximately **150 liters of blood filtered daily**. The kidneys perform six main functions, including **removing metabolic waste**, **regulating sodium and electrolyte balance**, **maintaining blood pressure**, impacting **calcium absorption**, and assisting in **blood formation**.

### Understanding Kidney Damage and Repair
The kidneys have a **self-repairing ability**, but excessive load can lead to **irreversible damage**. Three main causes of kidney damage are **diabetic nephropathy**, **hypertensive kidney disease**, and **chronic glomerulonephritis**. These conditions provide consistent long-term stimulation, preventing the kidneys from healing and leading to a **gradual decline in function**.

### Early Signs of Kidney Disease
Early detection of kidney issues is crucial, as symptoms often indicate **existing damage**. Common early signs include **weight gain**, **swelling in the feet and ankles**, **itching**, **fatigue**, and **changes in urine patterns**. A **cola-like urine color** and symptoms like **nausea, vomiting, and cramps** may also indicate kidney dysfunction.

### The Worst Foods and Medications for Kidney Health
Medication, especially NSAIDs and antibiotics, is the **top cause of kidney damage**, particularly for those **over 65 or with specific health issues**. Herbal ingredients like Deungchi and Gwanmoktong, often taken **without guidance**, can also be harmful. The fake product Tongcho, resembling wood, is still circulating and can cause **severe kidney issues** if consumed.

### Maintaining Healthy Kidneys and Liver
Eating can negatively impact the liver, so it's important to **know the right dosage and duration for herbs**, and to **consult a professional**. To keep kidneys healthy as you age, avoid high blood pressure, prevent diabetes, and refrain from overeating. Follow doctor's advice on regulating **salt and calcium intake**, and consider a **low-potassium diet** by reducing foods like bananas and increasing intake of **apples, strawberries, and grapes**.

### Understanding Kidney Health: Functions, Risks, and Prevention
* 🩺 The kidneys are vital organs that resemble kidney beans, measuring about **5 cm in width**, **10 to 12 cm in length**, and weighing around **150 grams**, with the right kidney positioned **slightly lower** due to the liver.
* 💧 They contain approximately **one million nephrons** that filter around **150 liters of blood daily**, removing waste and reabsorbing **essential components** to maintain bodily functions.
* ⚖ The kidneys perform six main functions, including the **removal of metabolic waste**, regulation of **sodium and electrolytes**, **blood pressure control**, **calcium absorption**, and assistance in **blood formation**.
* ⚠ Damage to the kidneys can occur due to conditions like **diabetic nephropathy**, **hypertensive kidney disease**, and **chronic glomerulonephritis**, which provide **long-term stimulation leading to harm**.
* 🔍 Early signs of kidney disease may include weight gain, swelling in the feet and ankles, nocturia, and changes in urine color, indicating the **need for caution** as symptoms often appear **after damage has occurred**.
* 💊 The leading cause of kidney damage is medication, particularly **non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics**, which should be used carefully, especially in **older adults or those with pre-existing health issues**.
* 🌿 Herbal medicines can also pose risks; it's crucial to **consult professionals and avoid unverified products** that may harm the kidneys, such as the fake Tongcho, which can lead to **severe damage**.
* 🥗 To maintain kidney health, focus on **preventing high blood pressure and diabetes**, manage pain without over-relying on **painkillers**, and adhere to dietary recommendations regarding **salt and potassium intake**.

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