As people reach middle age, their kidneys gradually become smaller, and the number of people with kidney disease increases. To prevent early kidney failure, it is important to learn how to take care of the kidneys.
Why is kidney disease more common in men?
A survey shows that after the age of 40, there are significantly more male patients with kidney disease than female patients.
(1) According to traditional Chinese medicine, as men age, the essence in their kidneys gradually weakens, leading to dysfunction in the main water function of the kidneys. This affects the production and excretion of urine, resulting in symptoms such as reduced urine output, edema, weak urination, frequent urination at night, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and bedwetting.
(2) In addition to physiological reasons, the high incidence of kidney disease in men is also closely related to smoking, excessive socializing, and high levels of stress in their lives.
Tips for kidney care in daily life
1. Regular check-ups
To detect kidney disease early, men over the age of 40 should undergo annual kidney ultrasound, urine tests, and kidney function tests. This is especially important for men with unhealthy lifestyles or a family history of kidney cancer.
2. Avoid holding urine after the age of 40
Urine is the waste product of kidney metabolism, and the kidneys eliminate metabolic waste and toxic substances through urine. Holding urine constantly increases the pressure on the bladder, which can cause urine reflux and bacterial growth. This can damage the renal glomerulus, impair kidney function, and even lead to kidney failure.
3. Follow a light diet
As age increases and the kidney's ability to excrete waste decreases, consuming large amounts of animal and plant proteins can significantly increase the production of nitrogen-containing waste in the body, which places a heavy burden on the kidneys.
4. Maintain a healthy weight
Research shows that as waist circumference increases in men, the risk of kidney disease also increases. Therefore, maintaining a normal weight is an important factor in protecting kidney function in men.
5. Consume foods rich in alpha-linolenic acid
Modern medical research has shown that the prostate system plays an important role in maintaining kidney function, and alpha-linolenic acid can promote the synthesis of prostaglandins in the prostate. Therefore, it is beneficial to consume foods rich in alpha-linolenic acid, such as walnuts, peanuts, sesame, and use oils like sunflower seed oil and olive oil for cooking, as it also has a positive effect on protecting kidney function.
Four misconceptions to avoid in kidney care for middle-aged and elderly people
1. Treating kidney deficiency is only for enhancing sexual function.
2. Erectile dysfunction is caused by kidney deficiency.
3. Kidney deficiency is only a problem for men.
4. Tinnitus is caused by kidney deficiency.
