The kidneys are one of the most important organs in our bodies. They are responsible for detoxifying our body and removing the waste from it. This is why it is extremely important to keep the kidneys healthy at all times. Some of the most common symptoms of kidney issues are nausea, breathing problems, anemia, changes in urine color and quantity, pain itchy skin, feeling cold, bad breath and fatigue. We are going to explain some of the most harmful common habits that have negative effects on the kidney health and function.
- Regular use of analgesics
Regularly taking anti-inflammatory drugs or medications for fever can damage many organs including the kidneys. These medications actually reduce the blood flow to the kidneys which results in poor function and can even lead to serious conditions such as interstitial nephritis or acute kidney injury.
- Smoking
The link between smoking and kidney damage has been proven and confirmed by numerous studies. The American Association of Kidney Patients says that one of the proofs of how dangerous the effects of smoking are is the fact that it is the number one cause of end stage renal disease. Smoking can also damage many other organs because it increases the heart rate and blood pressure resulting in increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Lack of sleep
Sleeping is essential for the overall body health and function. Sleep deprivation causes the body to become unable to renew itself which results in an increased risk of organ damage and many diseases.
- Insufficient water intake
While you are dehydrated your blood becomes more concentrated which means the blood flow to the kidneys is reduced. This way the kidneys are unable to function properly and the toxins start to accumulate in our bodies. The recommended daily intake of water should be 10-12 glasses.
- Delaying the urge to urinate
Delaying the urge to urinate can seriously damage the kidneys so make sure you pee the minute you feel the need to. If the urine stays in the bladder for too long the bacteria start to multiply which can result with a urinary tract infection.
- Drinking too much alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol is also very harmful for the kidneys because it causes uric acid to become stored in the renal tubules. This way the renal tubules are obstructed which can lead to kidney failure. Drinking alcohol also dehydrates the body so you should not drink more than 2 alcoholic beverages daily.
- High salt intake
The kidneys metabolize even 95% of the sodium so try to avoid salt as much as you can. The kidneys work very hard to excrete it which can lead to kidney damage and other health issues too.
- High protein diet
The risk of kidney damage can also increase because of excess consumption of processed and red meat. The kidneys metabolize and eliminate nitrogenous waste from the body which is a by-product of protein digestion. A high protein diet raises the glomerular pressure and the hyper filtration which results in increased metabolic load in the kidneys and higher risk of kidney disease.
- Too much caffeine
Consuming too much caffeine increases the blood pressure and causes the kidneys to work much harder. In the long run the calcium excretion in the urine increases which results in formation of kidney stones and kidney damage.
- Ignoring common infections
Kidney damage can also happen if you fail to recognize the symptoms of these conditions: pharyngitis, tonsillitis, flu and cold. Lack of treatment of these conditions results in kidney damage due to the viruses or bacteria.