7 Habits That Harm Your Kidneys

The kidneys are responsible for filtering all the food we eat. It is therefore very important not to overload them. Excessive consumption of drugs can also be harmful to kidney health.

Your kidneys are vital organs in our body. They are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid, to eliminate them through urine.

Despite the fact that this organ is essential for our well-being, many of us ignore the habits that can affect its functioning and health.

A person can lead a relatively normal life with only 20% of their kidney function.

We can therefore think that we are in good health without knowing that our kidneys are deteriorating gradually.

Often, kidney damage takes a long time to send out warning signs. However, we find them out when it’s too late.

Fortunately, we can decrease the chances of suffering from kidney damage. You just need to adopt a healthy lifestyle and avoid certain bad habits.

Good kidney health is synonymous with well-being.

It is for this reason that the experts revealed the 7 habits that damage the kidneys, and explained how to adopt a healthier lifestyle for our kidneys.

Consumption of sugary and carbonated drinks

Research by the University of Osaka, Japan, has shown that people who drink two or more soft drinks a day have a greater risk of developing kidney disease.

12,000 people who consumed large amounts of soda took part in this study, and it was found that they were more prone to having protein (proteinuria) in their urine.

The proteinuria is an early sign of kidney damage, although at this stage it is possible to change the situation.

Thus, these drinks are linked to a greater risk of suffering from kidney stones, for example.

How to avoid them?

Instead of taking a sugary or carbonated drink, it is recommended to drink more spring water, fruit and vegetable juices, as well as natural juices.

Excess sodium

One of the functions of the kidneys is to metabolize the sodium that we ingest through food.

The salt that we add to our diet is the main source of sodium, and most of it needs to be eliminated.

When we consume too much sodium, the kidneys have to do double the work and in the long run they are affected.

How to avoid it?

Since salt is an ingredient that is present in many foods that we buy in the market, we must reduce its intake as much as possible.

Instead of using salt in cooking, one can opt for spices like oregano, cilantro, turmeric or ginger, among many others.

Caffeine consumption

Although consuming caffeine is harmless to your health, drinking too much of it can lead to kidney problems.

This ingredient can increase high blood pressure and blood pressure, which can damage the kidneys.

How to avoid it?

Drink coffee and tea in moderation, and avoid commercial energy drinks.

You can drink an energizing smoothie or eat a fruit that gives you energy.

Abuse of painkillers

Many pain relievers are available over the counter. This is why most people think they are the best solution for their pain relief.

Yet overuse of pain relieving drugs has been shown to have serious side effects. And among them are kidney problems.

How to avoid them?

Ask your doctor for alternative therapy to pain relievers for pain relief.

You can also go for natural remedies that have pain relieving properties.

Foods rich in protein

Protein is essential for the proper functioning of the body, but not in excess.

Foods like red meats, fish and eggs cause the kidneys to work harder than the metabolic load they generate.

How to avoid them?

Since these foods are part of a balanced diet, they should be eaten, but in moderation.

You can also opt for proteins of plant origin, which are easier to digest and healthy.

Drinking excess alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption is a habit that can damage the kidneys in a short time.

This is because alcohol contains toxins and chemical compounds that are aggressive for the kidneys and the liver.

How to avoid it?

You have to know how to be aware when drinking alcohol, in order to avoid excess. Instead of drinking this type of drink, drink water, natural juices or teas instead.

Refrain from urinating

When the need to urinate is urgent, it is very important to go to the bathroom as soon as possible.

Refraining from urinating is a very bad idea, as in the long run it can cause kidney failure or incontinence.