Kidneys

The main functions of the kidneys are to regulate internal fluid and mineral balance and to excrete waste products and excess salts/minerals through urine. They ensure that the amount of water and salts stays in balance, for example, by producing more urine when you drink a lot.

Kidney function

Kidney function, the eGFR (glomerular filtration rate), is estimated based on the creatinine level in the blood. Creatinine is a breakdown product of creatine phosphate in muscle tissue and is produced by the body depending on the amount of muscle mass present. It is passively filtered by the kidneys.

Kidney damage

Over 10% of the Dutch population has kidney damage. Symptoms only arise when kidney function is reduced to 30% or lower. It is important to detect any kidney damage early so that treatment can be initiated in time to prevent it from worsening.

Various causes of kidney damage exist. The most common causes of chronic kidney damage are high blood pressure and diabetes. Other causes include kidney diseases or kidney infections. An unhealthy lifestyle, with excessive salt intake, smoking, and obesity, can also impact the kidneys.

Many people in the Netherlands consume too much salt. The recommendation is not to consume more than 6 grams of salt per day. Salt is added to many products, which means you can easily exceed your salt intake without realizing it. Salt is particularly present in sandwiches, cheeses, meats/cold cuts, and meat substitutes. Additionally, you unknowingly consume a lot of salt through ready-made meals, soups, and sauces. Eating no more than 6 grams of salt per day can prevent chronic kidney damage.

In the Energy & Stress, Vital Organs, Total Health, PME standard en PME comprehensive this value is measured.

Sources

• Nierstichting: Hoe werken je nieren? Available through https://nierstichting.nl/over-nieren/hoe-werken-je-nieren/
• Nierstichting: Feiten en cijfers. Available through https://nierstichting.nl/over-nieren/hoe-werken-je-nieren/feiten-en-cijfers/
• Nierstichting: Feiten en fabels over zout. Available through https://nierstichting.nl/minderen-met-zout/feiten-en-fabels/