While researching renal failure recently, also known as Chronic Kidney Disease or CKD, I found some interesting information.
The health of kidneys is laid down while the foetus is in the mother’s womb. This means that everything the pregnant mum is exposed to will affect the kidneys. As kidneys develop over an extended period of time – from Week 9 through to Week 36 of gestation – there is a long exposure to maternal nutrition and intake of medications. Of note is paracetamol which is particularly damaging to the development of the nephrons – the tiny tubules which filter approximately 200 litres of blood every day.
Of note is the fact that any epigenetic changes to the kidneys that occur to the unborn baby are passed on to their children.
Other factors affecting kidney health include low birth weight which also increases the risk of complications and hypertension. These conditions are all hugely influenced by maternal nutrition, medications and stress.
Why are kidneys so important?
The kidneys remove wastes and extra fluid from your body. Your kidneys also remove acid which is produced by the cells of your body (as well as diet and lifestyle), and maintain a healthy balance of water, salts, and minerals—such as sodium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium—in your blood.
Without this balance, nerves, muscles, and other tissues in your body may not work properly.
Your kidneys also make hormones that help:
control your blood pressure make red blood cells keep your bones strong and healthy
In my book, ‘How to Have a Healthy Baby’ I explain the importance of good nutrition, genetics and epigenetics, as well as environmental toxins.
Pre-conception preparation and healthy lifestyle throughout pregnancy are perhaps the most important ways you can positively affect the health of your child, and grandchildren.
The book is available from most online booksellers and Amazon. Order your copy today – if not for yourself, then give the gift of health.
