Did you know that you can live a pretty normal life with only 20% of your kidney function? That is why a steady decline and gradual damage to your kidneys can often go unnoticed for a long time. Sometimes, even common habits can cause damage to your kidneys, and when the problems are finally discovered, it can be too late.
Our kidneys are amazing organs. They produce hormones, filter blood, absorb minerals, produce urine and maintain a healthy acid-alkaline balance. There is no life without the kidneys, and the Chinese view them as the seat of essential life energy.
Looking after your kidneys goes hand in hand with looking after your health and well-being. After all, you want your kidneys to thrive and serve you well for the foreseeable future.
Below are a list of 8 common habits that put a lot of pressure on your kidneys and can cause serious damage over time.
1. Not Drinking Enough Water
The kidneys need to be hydrated properly to perform their functions.. Not drinking enough water, can make toxins accumulate in the blood, as there will not be enough fluid to drain them through the kidneys.
2. Drop the Sugar Habit
Individuals who consume at least 2 or more sugary drinks per day are more likely to have protein in their urine. Protein in your urine, is an early sign that your kidneys are not doing their job as they should.
A study conducted at the University in Japan suggested that drinking 2 or more soda drinks per day, can result to a higher risk of kidney disease. Those that consumed a huge amount of soda were more likely to have protein in their urine.
Proteinuria or protein in urine is an indication of kidney damage, but, when discovered at that stage, the disease can still be reverse.
3. Too Much Salt In Your Diet
The body needs salt or sodium to work properly. However, some people however consume too much salt, which can put a lot of stress on the kidneys and raise blood pressure. It is recommended that no more than 5 grams of salt should be eaten on a daily basis.
4. Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is a legal toxin that puts a lot of stress on the liver and kidneys when consumed in large amount. Drinking a glass of beer or red wine once in a while is good, but consuming more than that is not healthy.
5. Too Much Animal Protein
Consumption of too much protein, most especially red meat increases the metabolic load on your kidneys. More protein in your diet means the kidneys have to work harder and may eventually lead to kidney damage or dysfunction over time.
6. Mineral and Vitamin Deficiencies
A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables is vital for your kidney function and overall health. The risk of kidney failure and kidney stones are higher when vitamins and minerals are deficient. Magnesium and vitamin B6 are very important in reducing the risk of kidney stones.
7. Delaying the Call of Nature
Frequently retaining urine on a regular basis increases urine pressure and may lead to kidney stones even kidney failure. Instead of delaying when you have to go, heed your body when nature calls.
8. Not Getting Enough Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is not only beneficial to your health but to yor kidneys as well. Kidney tissue gets renewed during the night, so sleep interruptions may cause damage to this organ.
