7 Sneaky Habits Damaging Your Kidneys

Your kidneys are silent warriors, filtering waste products and keeping your blood clean. But unknowingly, every day habits can put them at risk. 

This isn't just about age or specific illnesses –  seemingly harmless choices can damage your kidneys over time.

1. Overusing Painkillers:

Over-the-counter pain medicines like Dolo 650 and Crocin may relieve your aches and pains but they can harm the kidneys. Reduce your reliance on pain medication. Consult your doctor for alternative pain management options, and always stick to the recommended dosage.

 

2. Eating Processed Foods:

Processed foods like sweetened breakfast cereals, sweetened juice products, canned food, etc, are significant sources of sodium and phosphorus, which are bad for your kidneys. Try adopting the DASH diet to guide your healthy eating habits. This eating plan promotes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, all beneficial for kidney health.

3. Not Drinking Enough Water:

Staying well hydrated helps your kidneys clear sodium and toxins from the body. Drinking plenty of water is also one of the best ways to avoid painful kidney stones. Those with kidney problems may need to restrict their fluid intake, but drinking 1.5 to 2 litres (3 to 4 pints) of water daily is a healthy target for most people.

4. Consuming too much salt:

Diets high in salt translate to high sodium intake, which can elevate blood pressure and negatively impact kidney function. Limit processed foods and use herbs and spices to add flavor to your meals. Pay attention to sodium levels on food labels and opt for low-sodium alternatives.

5. Eating too many foods high in sugar:

Excessive sugar consumption contributes to obesity, a risk factor for high blood pressure and diabetes, leading causes of kidney disease. Don't be fooled by seemingly healthy options – processed foods often contain hidden sugars. Be mindful of added sugars in packaged goods. Read food labels carefully and limit sugary drinks and desserts. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.

 

6. Lighting Up:

Sure, smoking isn't good for your lungs or your heart. But did you know that smoking may not be good for your kidneys either? People who smoke are more likely to have protein in the urine – a sign of kidney damage.

7. Drinking Alcohol in Excess:

Regular heavy drinking – more than four drinks a day – has been found to double the risk of chronic kidney disease. Heavy drinkers who also smoke have an even higher risk of kidney problems. Smokers who are heavy drinkers have about five times the chance of developing chronic kidney disease than people who don’t smoke or drink alcohol to excess.

Remember, early detection is vital.  Schedule regular checkups with your doctor and get tested to monitor your kidney health.  Kidney disease often progresses silently, so don't wait for symptoms to appear.  By making simple lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk and safeguard your kidneys for a healthier you.