Kidney Health: Practical Tips to Protect Your Kidneys

Your kidneys filter about 120–150 quarts of blood every day. That’s a lot of work, and small habits add up fast. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, your kidneys are already at higher risk—so a few practical changes can make a big difference.

Check the basics: tests and numbers that matter

Ask your provider for two simple tests: serum creatinine (used to estimate eGFR) and a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). eGFR tells how well kidneys filter; ACR detects early leaks of protein. For people with diabetes, annual ACR and eGFR checks are standard. If eGFR drops under 60 mL/min/1.73m2 or ACR is above normal, your doctor will want closer follow-up.

Keep copies of your lab results. Trends matter more than single numbers—small, steady declines call for action early.

Medications and things that can hurt kidneys

Some common drugs can stress kidneys. Regular use of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) is a frequent culprit—avoid daily use unless a doctor approves. Certain antibiotics (like aminoglycosides) and some contrast dyes used for scans can harm kidneys; your provider will suggest alternatives or extra monitoring when needed. Many medicines need dose changes when eGFR falls—gabapentin, some diabetes and blood pressure drugs, and many pain meds are adjusted based on kidney function. Don’t stop or change doses on your own—talk to your prescriber.

ACE inhibitors and ARBs often protect kidneys in diabetes and high blood pressure, but they can raise creatinine or potassium shortly after starting. That’s why labs are checked after the first few weeks of therapy.

If you take metformin, discuss eGFR limits with your clinician. Most teams stop or lower metformin if kidney function is very low; rules vary, so follow the plan your doctor gives.

Pro tip: bring a current medication list (including OTCs and supplements) to every visit so your provider can spot nephrotoxic combos.

Diet and daily habits that help

Stay hydrated but don’t overdo it—drink when thirsty and more during hot weather or if you exercise hard. Cut back on excess salt; lower sodium helps blood pressure and reduces swelling. Protein matters: very high protein diets can speed decline in people with established chronic kidney disease, so ask your clinician or dietitian what target fits your stage.

Control blood sugar and blood pressure. Even small improvements lower the rate of kidney damage over years. Smoking raises kidney risk too—quitting helps.

When to call your doctor now

Get urgent care if you have sudden swelling, very little urine, severe nausea or vomiting, new shortness of breath, or confusion. These can be signs of serious kidney trouble. For milder concerns—rising creatinine on recent labs, potassium changes, or side effects after starting a new drug—book a prompt visit with your primary care doctor or nephrologist.

Small, consistent steps protect kidneys: track labs, review meds, manage blood sugar and pressure, and avoid regular NSAIDs. These actions keep your kidneys doing their vital job longer.