(HealthDay News) -- A healthy lifestyle can help protect your kidneys and keep them strong.

The National Kidney Disease Education Program offers these suggestions:

  • Keep blood pressure and cholesterol within normal ranges.
  • Make sure diabetes is well-controlled.
  • Take medications exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Reduce sodium intake to less than 1,500 milligrams per day.
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole grains
  • Restrict alcohol consumption and don't smoke.
  • Lose any excess weight and get plenty of regular exercise.