It’s not too late to review habits that put a strain on your kidneys. Here are 10 common habits that you may not realize are putting a strain on your kidneys....CONTINUE READING
1. Overuse of painkillers
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and painkillers may relieve aches and pains, but they can harm your kidneys, especially if you already have kidney disease Reduce regular use of NSAIDs and never exceed recommended dosages
2. Salt shaker abuse
A high salt diet is high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and, in turn, harm the kidneys. Instead of salt, use herbs and spices to flavor your food. Over time, it may become easier to avoid using added salt (sodium) in your cooking.
3. Eat processed foods
Processed foods are important sources of sodium and phosphorus. Many people with kidney disease need to limit phosphorus in their diet. Some studies have shown that high phosphorus intake from processed foods can harm the kidneys and bones in people without kidney disease. The DASH diet should be used as a guideline for a healthy diet.
4. Not drinking enough water
Adequate hydration helps the kidneys eliminate sodium and toxins from the body. Drinking plenty of water is also one of the best ways to avoid painful kidney stones. Although people with kidney disease or kidney failure should limit their fluid intake, a healthy goal for most people is to drink 1.5 to 2 liters (3 to 4 pints) of water per day.
5. Sleep deprivation
Quality sleep is critical to overall health and to the kidneys. Kidney function is regulated by the sleep-wake cycle, which helps regulate the workload of the kidneys over a 24-hour period.
6. Eating too much meat
Animal proteins produce large amounts of acid in the blood, which can harm the kidneys and cause acidosis (a condition in which the kidneys are unable to remove enough acid). Protein is necessary for growth, maintenance, and repair of all parts of the body, but the diet should be balanced with fruits and vegetables.
7. Excessive consumption of foods high in sugar
Sugar causes obesity and increases the risk of developing high blood pressure and diabetes, the main causes of kidney disease. In addition to desserts, sugar is often added to foods and drinks that are not considered “sweet”.
Condiments, breakfast cereals, and white breads sneak in processed sugar and should be avoided. When purchasing packaged goods, pay attention to the ingredients and avoid added sugar.
8. Smoking
Certainly, smoking is not good for the lungs or 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 their urine, a sign of kidney damage.
9. Excessive alcohol consumption
Heavy drinking, four or more drinks per day, has been found to double the risk of chronic kidney disease. Heavy drinkers and smokers are also at an even higher risk of kidney disease.
Heavy drinkers and smokers are about five times more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than those who do not smoke or drink too much alcohol.
10. Sitting still
Sitting for long periods of time has been shown to be linked to the development of kidney disease. While it is not yet known why or how sitting time or physical activity directly affects kidney health, it is known that more physical activity leads to improved blood pressure and glucose metabolism, both important factors for kidney health.
Note:
This article is intended to help prevent kidney disease. If you have been told to limit potassium or phosphorus, or if you are on dialysis, please consult your dietitian or nephrologist regarding your personal dietary needs…CONTINUE READING>>
