A healthy summer – with one kidney!
Get some tips for the hot summer from Elyasaf Book
Director of Donor Health Program
🏃♀️ Summer exercise: choose activities which don’t require too much exertion, such as walking, swimming or activity in an air-conditioned gym. Avoid prolonged activities in hot and humid conditions.
💦 Fluids: It is important to drink enough even when you don’t feel thirsty. Drink at least 1.5-2 liters a day.
☀️ Sun protection: exposure to UV rays can be harmful. Be especially careful of prolonged exposure to the sun between 10:00-16:00. Be sure to stay in the shade, cover your head, and use sunscreen.
⚖️ Regular tests: summer is a wonderful time to check blood pressure, potassium levels, creatinine and iron in the blood. Do not hesitate to contact your doctor if you have any unusual symptoms.
🥤 Replenishing fluids and salts: in the summer it is easier to sweat and thus lose fluids and salt. Kidney donors should pay attention to appropriate supplementation with salty drinks and high-salt fruits.
And in short…
Summer brings pleasure but also challenges for kidney donors. With proper adjustments to your routine, you can enjoy the summer to the fullest!