5 Habits To Avoid To Keep Kidney Healthy

Kidneys have an important function of eliminating toxins from the body. Given the modern day food habits and lifestyle there is immense amount of pressure created on the kidneys. Here are a couple of damaging habits that one should unlearn to avoid putting pressure on your kidneys and prevent renal diseases.

* Overusing painkillers

Over the counter pain medicinesmay alleviate your aches and pains, but they can harm the kidneys. If you are already having kidney problems it is recommended to reduce your dosage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

* Using too much salt

High levels of sodium in food can be harmful for kidneys since they contribute to increased blood pressure. It is advisable to flavour your foods with herbs and spices instead of salt. Over time, you may find it easier to avoid using added salt (sodium) on your food.

* Excessive consumption of processed foods

Many people who have kidney disease need to limit phosphorus in their diets. Since processed foods are significant sources of sodium and phosphorus, excessive consumption of these foods may be harmful for kidneys and bones for people who are not suffering from kidney diseases.

* 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. While people already suffering from renal problems may be required to constrict their water consumption, drinking at least 2 litres of water is recommended to keep kidneys functioning for a normal healthy person.

* Sleep lack

Proper rest is important for the optimal functioning of the different organs in your body. A good night’s rest is extremely important to your overall well-being and, your kidneys. Kidney function is regulated by the sleep-wake cycle which helps coordinate the kidneys’ workload over 24 hours.

* Eating too much meat

Protein is needed for growth, upkeep and repair of all parts of the body but excessive consumption of meats can put undue pressure on your kidneys. Animal protein generates high amounts of acid in the blood that can be harmful to the kidneys and cause acidosis – a condition in which kidneys cannot eliminate acid fast enough.

* Eating too much sugary food

Two of the leading causes of renal diseases are high blood pressure and diabetes. Consuming too much sugar can cause obesity which results in irregular blood pressure and blood sugar level. Avoid condiments, breakfast cereals, and white bread which are all sneaky sources of processed sugar. It is best to keep a check on the sugar content of the packaged foods before purchase.

* Smoking

Smoking is a killer for your lungs and 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.

* Excessive alcohol consumption

If you are in the habit of excessive alcohol consumption, that is, if you have more than four drinks a day, you stand a risk of harming your kidney. Alcoholism has been found to double the risk of chronic kidney disease. 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.

* Sitting for long hours

Sitting for long periods of time has now been linked to the development of kidney disease. The physical inactivity of body while sitting still for long hours may result in decreased blood pressure regulation and slowed down glucose metabolism.