It is not too late to unlearn all of the behaviors that can damage your kidneys. Here are some of the most common habits that you might not realize are putting pressure on your kidneys:
Overusing painkillers
Over the counter painkillers, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, may alleviate your pains and aches, but they can harm your kidneys, especially if you already have kidney problems. Reduce the regular use of painkillers and never go over the recommended dosage.
Too much salt
Diets that are high in salt are high in sodium, which can increase your blood pressure and it can harm your kidneys. Flavor your foods with spices and herbs instead of salt. Over time, you may find it easier to avoid using added salt on your food.
Eating processed foods
Processed foods are the sources of phosphorus and sodium. A lot of people who have kidney disease need to limit their phosphorus intake. Some studies have shown that high phosphorus intake from processed foods in people without kidney disease may be harmful to their bones and kidneys. It is best to adopt the DASH diet to guide your healthy eating habits.
Not drinking enough water
Staying hydrated helps your kidneys clear toxins and sodium from your body. Drinking a lot of water is also one of the best ways to avoid painful kidney stones. Those with kidney problems or kidney failure may need to restrict their water intake, but for most people, it is best to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water every day.
Missing out on sleep
Having a good night's rest is very important to your overall well-being and, it turns out, it is very good for your kidneys. Our kidney function is regulated by our sleep-wake cycle which helps coordinate the kidney's workload over 24 hours.
Eating too much meat
Protein from animals creates very high amounts of acid in our blood that can be harmful to our kidneys and it can cause acidosis which is a condition wherein our kidneys can't eliminate acid fast enough. Protein is needed for growth, upkeep, and repair of all parts of our body, but your diet should be well balanced with vegetables and fruits.
Eating too many foods high in sugar
Sugar contributes to obesity which increases your risk of having high blood pressure and diabetes, two of the leading causes of kidney disease. In addition to desserts, sugar is usually added to foods and drinks that you may not consider sweet. It is best to avoid condiments, breakfast cereals and white bread which are all sneaky sources of processed sugar. Pay attention to the ingredients when purchasing packaged good to avoid added sugar in your diet.
Lighting up
Smoking is not good for your heart and your lungs, but did you know that smoking is not good for your kidneys too? People who smoke are more likely to dispose their protein through their urine which is a sign of kidney damage.
Drinking alcohol in excess
Drinking excessively for more than four drinks in a day has been found to double the risk of chronic kidney disease. Heavy drinkers who also smoke have a very high risk of developing kidney problems. Those who smoke and drink heavily have about five times the chance of developing chronic kidney disease than those who do not smoke or drink alcohol.
Sitting still
Sitting for hours has now been connected to the development of kidney disease. Although researchers still do not know why or even how sedentary time or physical activity can directly impact kidney health, it is known that greater physical activity is connected to improved blood pressure and glucose metabolism. Both of these are important factors in kidney health.
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