The kidneys are important body organs, they take care of the
urination process in our bodies by filtering body waste and excess of
water. Despite being such an important component of our body many of us
do not properly care for them and millions of people die each year from
kidney disease.
There are habits many of us have that can harm our kidneys.
Here is a list of some habits to avoid for healthy kidneys:
1. Drinking inadequate water
Not drinking enough water is the biggest contributor to damage that
our kidneys bear everyday. The main job of our kidneys is to drain
metabolic waste from the body and regulate erythrocyte balances. When we
do not stay properly hydrated, the renal blood flow decreases,
ultimately resulting in accumulation of toxins in the blood.
2. Long-term full bladder
A habit many of us have is delaying the call of nature. When we leave
the bladder full of urine for an extended time, different complications
in urinary tract may arise: Hypertrophy of detrusor muscle is one
example of such complications which may lead to formation of
diverticula. Hydronephrosis (increase of urine pressure in kidneys) is
another example which is caused by chronic back pressure on kidneys,
ultimately resulting in renal failure and even the need for dialysis.
3. Consuming too much sodium
Metabolizing the sodium we consume is another job for our kidneys.
The salt we eat is the prime source of sodium and the majority of our
sodium intake needs to be excreted. When we eat excessive salt the
kidneys keep busy excreting sodium, which may cause long term stress on
our kidneys.
4. Consumption of too much caffeine
When we feel thirsty we often choose beverages other than water like
soft drinks and sodas. Many of these beverages contain caffeine.
Caffeine can elevate blood pressure and high blood pressure puts strain
on the kidneys which can damage them.
5. Pain-killer abuse
Taking pain-killers for low-grade pain is a bad habit many people
have. Most pain-killers have severe side effects and can damage
different organs, such as kidneys. Research shows taking pain pills long
term reduces blood flow and deteriorates kidney’s function.
6. Too much protein
Over-consumption of red meat and other protein-rich foods can
deteriorate damaged kidneys condition. A protein-rich diet is
essentially healthy unless you suffer from kidney damage and your doctor
recommends a protein-restricted diet. Too much protein increases the
metabolic load on our kidneys.
7. Too much alcohol consumption
When we drink alcohol we often ignore the proper quantity suitable
for good health. Too much alcoholic intake is a kidney-damaging habit.
Alcohol contains toxins which put stress on our kidneys and can damage
them.
8. Smoking
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking
is bad for almost every organ of the body, including the kidneys.
Several studies have shown the connection between smoking and kidney
disease.
9. Ignoring colds and flu
Ignoring the common cold and flu is a habit that can cause kidney
damage. Studies show people who have kidney disease also have a history
of avoiding resting while sick.
10. Sleeplessness
During the night when you sleep, renewal of organ tissues
occurs. Therefore, when you do not get sound sleep, this interrupts the
renewal process, resulting in damage to the kidneys and other organs.
From:
http://organichealth.co/10-common-habits-that-damage-your-kidneys/
