The kidney is part of the human urinary system, where urine is produced and is also an important place for maintaining water and electrolyte balance. Taking care of the kidneys is something we need to learn and pursue throughout our lives. For male friends, they can actually know if their kidneys are healthy through some symptoms. If there are 3 symptoms, the kidneys are likely in good condition.
1. Clear Urine
The kidneys work with the bladder to excrete urine. Men with healthy kidneys usually have clear and transparent urine with a normal urine output. They do not experience abnormal changes in urine color, volume, foamy urine, proteinuria, or hematuria.
2. Good Back and Warm Body
An adult should have two kidneys located on both sides of the back, which in Chinese medicine is referred to as the “kidney’s residence in the back”. Therefore, men with healthy kidneys usually do not experience back pain. When the kidneys are not in good condition, the back may feel uncomfortable.
Most cases of cold limbs and cold sensation are due to deficient kidney yang, leading to impaired blood circulation. So, men with warm hands and feet and a warm body generally have good kidney function.
3. Healthy Hair Growth
The kidneys store essence, and hair is considered a surplus of blood. The essence converted by the kidneys nourishes the hair, promoting healthy hair growth. This indicates a certain relationship between hair color, texture, and kidney function. Therefore, when a man’s hair grows thick and healthy, it usually indicates good kidney function.
Conversely, there are some characteristics of not-so-good kidney function:
1. Body Swelling
The kidneys regulate fluid balance. When the kidneys are not functioning well and toxins accumulate in the body, the ability to eliminate excess fluid is compromised, leading to renal edema.
2. Fatigue Proneness
Obstacles in toxin elimination, along with excessive consumption of toxins, deplete the energy of the kidneys, causing fatigue, lethargy, and weakness.
3. Jawline Acne
The area around the jawline is governed by the kidneys. When kidney function is compromised and detoxification is reduced, excess toxins may manifest as acne along the jawline.
In daily life, how can men protect and maintain kidney health?
1. Drink Sufficient Water to Increase Urination
People who do not drink enough water or have low urine output are at risk of developing kidney stones, which adversely affect kidney function. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to increase urine output and reduce the risk of kidney diseases.
2. Increase Intake of Black-colored Foods
Common black foods like black sesame seeds, shiitake mushrooms, black rice, and black fungus promote kidney metabolism and reduce the accumulation of excess water in the kidneys, thus benefiting kidney health.
3. Avoid Taking Medications Harmful to the Kidneys
Many pain-relieving medications like ketamine and gentamicin can cause varying degrees of kidney damage. To maintain kidney health, avoid self-medication, especially for older individuals whose kidneys are more susceptible to medication toxicity. Always follow the doctor’s guidance when dealing with illnesses.
In addition to the daily maintenance methods mentioned in this article, individuals with a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, or hypertension should be vigilant as these conditions can potentially progress to chronic kidney failure. Therefore, regular kidney function tests at hospitals to detect and treat diseases early are crucial!
