The kidneys are the foundation of congenital essence and also the “source of life.” The kidneys are important detoxification and metabolic organs in the body, helping maintain the stability of the body’s internal environment. According to data, the number of people suffering from chronic kidney disease is increasing.
When suffering from chronic kidney disease, it not only affects physical health but also diminishes male attractiveness and can even cause physical and mental harm.
The kidneys are located in a relatively hidden part of the body, making them difficult to detect. In fact, the emergence of any disease leaves traces to follow. When kidney function gradually declines, the body signals for help.
When men experience kidney function decline, 2 areas will darken, and 2 areas will emanate an unpleasant odor. If neither occurs, it indicates strong kidney function.
2 areas will darken
Dark circles under the eyes
People who stay up late for extended periods often wake up sporting two “dark circles” under their eyes, often teasingly compared to a smoky eye makeup look. If your sleep schedule deteriorates, the dark circles worsen. However, if even with good sleep quality, persistent dark circles in the morning indicate a link to kidney function decline.
The skin around our eyes is very delicate. Excessive toxin accumulation can lead to worsening dark circles. If the kidneys fail to timely remove toxins and waste, they accumulate internally, resulting not only in dark circles but also puffiness.
Ears turning dark
In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are connected to the ears. Changes in the ears can reflect overall health status, as kidney meridians surround the ears, acting as a kidney reflex area. Decreased kidney function could cause darkening of the ears. Healthy kidneys should ensure reddish, glossy, and plump ears.
Diminished kidney function leads to toxin and waste accumulation affecting blood flow, which in turn darkens the skin around the ears, indicating worsening kidney function.
Areas emitting an unpleasant odor
Foot odor
Individuals with kidney diseases commonly face foot odor issues as the soles of the feet are related to kidney reflex areas, corresponding to the body’s meridians and acupoints. Even if meticulous foot hygiene is maintained, persistent foot odor could indicate reduced kidney detoxification function.
As kidney function deteriorates, toxin accumulation leads to excessive foot sweating and unpleasant odors. Absence of severe foot odor signifies robust kidney function.
Urine odor
Under normal circumstances, urine should be clear and odorless. If, over time, urine appears abnormally yellow, brown, foamy, and emits a foul odor, it suggests diminished kidney function. In such cases, prompt medical examination is necessary. Clear, odorless urine indicates strong kidney function.
Individuals with healthy kidneys generally experience none of the above symptoms. To protect kidney health, adjusting dietary and lifestyle habits and promptly abandoning unhealthy habits are crucial. Three things men should quit early to nurture the kidneys for potential returns.
Consuming overly salty foods
The kidneys are sensitive to salty foods. Consumption of excessive salt leads to severe thirst, correlating with kidney function. High salt intake raises blood pressure, increasing kidney workload and causing kidney diseases.
An emphasis on a bland diet, avoiding processed foods, and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables protect the kidneys, potentially yielding benefits.
Improper medication usage
There’s a saying: “Medicine is a double-edged sword.” Excessive drug intake harms the body. Commonly, people self-medicate when feeling unwell, which could strain the liver and kidneys further. Some people take supplements for kidney health, but some may burden kidney metabolism, escalating the risk of kidney disease.
Adhering strictly to medical advice when administering any medication minimizes bodily harm, safeguarding kidney and liver health.
Holding urine habitually
Due to work or other constraints, many individuals often ignore the urge to urinate, inflicting severe damage to the kidneys. Prolonged urine retention increases bladder pressure, leading to urinary reflux into the ureters. This scenario encourages bacterial and viral migration back to the kidneys, resulting in pyelonephritis and kidney function impairment.
Abandoning the habit of holding urine is imperative for kidney health. If compelled to hold urine, limit it to an hour at most. Urinate promptly once the urge arises to protect kidney health, potentially yielding positive outcomes.
