7 Habits That Damage Your Kidneys

Kidneys perform several vital functions for your health and wellbeing, such as filtering your blood, eliminating toxins, producing urine, absorbing minerals and they also produce hormones for your body.

Your everyday habits can have a profound effect on your internal organs and health.

Are you aware of the habits that may damage your kidneys? There are many common habits that may cause damage to your kidneys. For example, in your fast-paced life, you may go hours without drinking water or emptying your bladder. You do these things without realizing they may damage your kidneys and, most of the time, the damage goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

Do you know any common habits that may damage kidney function? Please add them in the comment section of our Facebook post or in the comment box below.

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Healthy habits

Good habits and a healthy lifestyle will reduce the risks of damage to your internal organs, including your lungs, heart and kidneys. You should already be aware of some healthy habits, such as exercising, eating healthy, drinking plenty of water and getting a good night’s sleep. These are good for your health and also influence how you look and feel.

Habits that damage your kidneys

There are many common habits that may cause damage to your kidneys. Some of them are quite obvious, such as drinking too much alcohol, smoking, and eating too much protein. But there are others that you may not be aware of.

In this blog we are going to discuss some of the most critical habits that may damage your kidneys.

1. Too much salt

Most commonly people consume too much salt, much more than what your body needs to work properly. Excessive salt in your blood can raise blood pressure and put extra pressure on your kidneys. Our kidneys have to work harder to process sodium in common salt.

Avoid packaged snacks and food that contain too much salt to help lower your blood pressure and reduce stress on kidneys.

2. Too much sugar

Recent research suggests that drinking too many sugary beverages may put your kidneys at risk for disease. A study was done in the University of Japan on 12,000 employees. Eleven percent of the employees who drank two or more sodas daily had more protein in their urine. Another related study on rats found that moderate sugar consumption increased the kidney’s sensitivity to a protein that regulates salt balance ( healthday.com).

3. Not drinking enough water

The most important function of our kidneys is to filter and eliminate toxins and waste from our blood. If we do not drink enough water, toxins and waste materials can build up, causing damage to our kidneys. WebMD recommends that you drink enough water with every meal and also whenever you are thirsty. The National Kidney Foundation suggests drinking at least three quarts or 12 cups of water per day.

4. Unhealthy diet

Your diet plays a very important role in maintaining your general health and vital internal organs. Eating whole grain, fresh foods will ensure your kidney health. To avoid kidney disease, make sure you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and less sugar and salt. Especially avoid foods that are high in fat, cholesterol, and too much animal protein or oily foods. (Dietary fats: Know which types to choose – Mayo Clinic)

5. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Again, a healthy diet is important for your kidney health. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to ensure that you get enough vitamins and minerals.

Deficiencies of essential vitamins such as vitamin B6, and manganese can increase the chances of kidney disease.

The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends at least 1.3 milligrams of vitamin B6 daily. (15 Common Habits That Can Damage Your Kidneys)

6. Too little sleep

Sleep deprivation is one of the most damaging habits to your health. During your sleep, your body repairs and rebuilds damaged cells. If you do not sleep enough, your body cannot get rid of the toxic materials properly.

Chronic sleep deprivation gives rise to many other health issues, so make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

7. Drug abuse

It does not matter if you are taking a street drug or over-the-counter drug, abusing drugs can strain your kidneys. You should not abuse any controlled substances including painkillers, antibiotics, antidepressants, alcohol or cigarettes. They all have devastating consequences for your kidneys. Even drinking too much coffee can raise your blood pressure, and it can be bad for your kidneys. Also, consult your doctor before taking any medication and make sure of the recommended dosage.

Conclusion

There are many habits that you are not aware of, that may damage your health. Your internal organs are vital for your bodily functions and it is important that you become aware of habits that may damage them. I have shared with you a few simple things to avoid and how to make changes in your life for healthier living.

A healthy lifestyle is the key to a healthy body. Avoid bad habits that damage your kidneys and adopt a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy, avoid unnecessary drugs and alcohol, sleep well, exercise regularly and drink plenty of water.

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For more information on living a healthy lifestyle and to help you sift through healthy-living myths, watch our Webinar Huddle with Dr. Jennifer Orlowski. She’ll inspire you!

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Source: Balanced Life Team