Habits That Harm the Kidneys
By Belle & Juliana Sun
Kidney damage can happen over a period of time as a result of poor lifestyle choices, ignoring symptoms, and improper management of health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Many commonly accepted habits can put the kidneys at risk.
1. Sleep Deprivation
Research has shown that those who do not get sufficient sleep face a greater risk of suffering a rapid decline in their kidney function. One cannot have lasting health without consistent good-quality rest. Getting a good seven to eight hours of sleep nightly is important. The kidneys heal and renew during sleep.
2. Constantly Holding Urine
Holding urine frequently can be bad for the kidneys. Over time, this can lead to incontinence as well as kidney stones and other forms of kidney damage. Always answer Nature’s call in a regular, timely manner.
3. Prolonged Sitting
Sitting for long periods of time contributes to the development of kidney disease. Remember to take frequent breaks. Get out of your chair and take a walk, or stand up at your desk, take deep breaths and stretch.
4. Insufficient Water Intake
Sufficient water intake is essential for the kidneys to function as water flushes out toxins. Water also helps keep our blood vessels open so that blood can travel to our kidneys freely to deliver nutrients. Mild dehydration can cause fatigue, while being severely dehydrated can lead to kidney damage.
5. Sugary-Beverage Habit
Many people reach for sugary or artificially flavored beverages. Many of these beverages — such as sweetened coffees, iced teas or tea lattes, and juices and sodas — contain high amounts of artificial sweeteners, which are damaging to the kidneys.
6. Excessive Alcohol Intake
Excessive consumption of alcohol impairs the function of the kidneys and makes them less able to clear the blood of alcohol or remove other toxins from the body. Serious damage to the kidneys may occur as a result of heavy drinking.
7. High-Sodium Diet
Large quantities of sodium — found in abundance in processed foods — can decrease the kidneys’ ability to remove water. This increases blood-pressure levels which damages the kidneys over time. High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney failure.
8. Mega-Doses of Supplements
Depending on each person’s health, certain dietary supplements may cause adverse effects on the kidneys and contribute to damage. This is especially so if the person already has an underlying kidney issue. Taking high doses of certain herbs and vitamins may increase the risk of kidney stones. Use supplements with care and seek the appropriate guidance.
Do not wait for the signs
or symptoms of kidney disease
to appear before you take action.
Our health is our responsibility.
Start by making a few simple
lifestyle changes to prevent kidney damage or slow the progression of
kidney disease, and preserve your overall health.
