March Is Also National Kidney Month: Get to Know Your Kidneys!

March 26, 2024 / Get Well

March is National Kidney Month! Did you know your kidneys filter all of your blood up to 25 times a day? Let’s get to know your kidneys a bit better — start by watching this 2-minute video to learn how you can protect these two fist-sized, bean-shaped organs that work around the clock for you!

No matter your age, or whether you have kidney disease, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases invites you to learn about your kidneys. Review strategies below for preventing or slowing the progression of kidney disease.

Learn About Kidney Health
Your kidneys make urine and remove waste and extra fluid from your body. If your kidneys are struggling, they have to work harder to keep up. You can lose up to 60% of your kidney function before noticing any problems; that’s why it’s critical to take steps to keep your kidneys healthy today.

Understand Your Risk for Kidney Disease
If you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or a family history of kidney disease, or if you are over age 65, talk with a healthcare professional about your risk for kidney disease. Getting your kidneys checked is the best way to know if they are healthy. Your healthcare professional can help you get tested for kidney disease and discuss your test results.

If you have type 2 diabetes, you are at an increased risk of kidney disease. This article explains what you need to know about preventing kidney disease, how your heart and kidney health are connected and the role of regular screenings. Learn how to take care of your kidneys when living with diabetes.

Embrace a Kidney-Healthy Lifestyle
Take steps to build healthy habits: Eating healthy foods you enjoy, try to exercise for 30 minutes every day, quit smoking, reduce your alcohol intake and aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

Want to Learn More About Your Kidneys?

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases graphic: cartoon, purple-hued gameboard with colorful dots and kidney-shaped gamepiece. "Get to Know Your Kidneys" appears in purple text against a white background in the center of the graphic.

Submitted by: 
Dahlia Henry-Tett, Chief Wellness Officer (CWO), employeewellbeing@nvcc.edu