How to protect your kidneys: nephrologist recommends less salt and moderate meat intake

Protecting kidney health starts with everyday habits such as reducing salt intake, staying hydrated, moderating meat consumption, using medications carefully and staying physically active, according to nephrologist María J. Soler.

Soler recommends choosing foods with less sodium and paying attention to hidden sources of salt, including dressings and side dishes. One practical strategy is to ask restaurants to serve sauces and dressings separately to have greater control over sodium intake.

The specialist also advises against eating meat every day, particularly when it leads to excessive protein consumption. Research cited in the article suggests that lower-protein diets may help manage chronic kidney disease in patients who are not dependent on dialysis and could potentially slow disease progression.

Another recommendation is to limit the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. According to the studies cited, these medications can increase the risk of kidney damage and contribute to declining kidney function, particularly among older adults. Their use should be guided by medical advice.

Regular physical activity is also part of maintaining kidney health. Soler recommends staying active with an exercise routine appropriate for each person’s physical condition.

The specialist emphasizes that caring for the kidneys does not necessarily require following an extremely strict diet. Instead, understanding how food choices and daily habits affect kidney health can help people make better decisions over time.