8 Things That Can Hurt Your Kidney

Did you know?

Kidney disease is a common problem affecting about 10% of the world’s population.

Kidneys don’t get damaged overnight. It happens because of poor lifestyle and improper management of many health conditions like diabetes and blood pressure etc. If you’re unaware about what all habits can damage your kidneys, here a list habits that you must change:

1) Too Much Protein

Protein is healthy for your body. However, if your kidneys are not working normally, taking too much of protein can overtax your kidneys. Make sure to consult with your doctor before adding protein to your diet. Your doctor may recommend you eat protein in small portions in the form of fish, eggs, nuts, and beans etc.

2) Illegal Drugs

Illegal drugs such as heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine can damage your kidney in different ways. Some of these drugs can lead to high blood pressure, affecting your kidneys.

3) Smoking

Smoking worsens the risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Both of these health issues are the leading causes of kidney disease. Smoking reduces the flow of the blood to the kidneys due to which your kidneys get affected.

4) Pain Medication

Some over the counter medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen or the prescription NSAID medications, if taken regularly can affect your kidneys. This doesn’t mean that you should stop taking these medicines on your own. Consult with your doctor and make sure to follow your prescription

5) Overtraining

Working out too hard can lead to a condition rhabdomyolysis. It occurs due to the death of muscle fibres and the release of their contents into the bloodstream, leading to serious complications such as renal (kidney) failure. Make sure not to overdo. Increase your workout intensity slowly. Don’t work out in high heat and humidity. Consult with your doctor immediately if you have muscle pain and dark-coloured pee.

6) Dehydration

Human kidneys need enough amount of water to work properly. Dehydration can damage your kidneys. Not drinking enough water can cause a build-up of wastes and acids in the body, and it can clog the kidneys with muscle proteins. Kidney stones don’t build up easily if you drink enough water. Sufficient amount of water in the body prevents stone-forming crystals from sticking together.

7) Excess drinking

Regular heavy drinking – more than four drinks a day – increases the risk of chronic kidney disease. Moreover, people who smoke along with drinks have a higher risk of kidney problems. Smokers who are heavy drinkers have 5 times more risk of developing chronic kidney disease than people who don’t smoke or drink alcohol to excess.

8) Not monitoring your blood pressure

High blood pressure can also damage your kidneys. Make sure to keep a regular track of your blood pressure to avoid such a situation. Take preventive measures to keep your blood pressure to the normal levels as recommended by your doctor.

To stay fit and healthy, you must restrict yourself to the above-mentioned things. However, dietary restrictions may vary depending on the type and level of kidney damage. Make sure to follow a healthy, well-balanced and kidney-friendly meal plan to be fit.