7 Habits That Damage Your Kidneys And How To Avoid Them

The kidneys are vital organs of our body, responsible for filtering waste and excess liquid to eliminate them through urine. It is important, therefore, to know the habits that damage your kidneys in order to prevent complications.

Despite being such an important organ in our bodies, many of us ignore certain habits that can affect its proper functioning. A person can lead a relatively normal life with only 20% of their kidney function.

So even if the kidneys are gradually deteriorating, the affected person may not be aware of it until the problem is very advanced. Next, we’ll introduce you to 7 habits that damage your kidneys and are contraindicated by professionals.

Habits That Damage Your Kidneys and How to Avoid Them

A survey, published in the Journal of Epidemiology , concluded that the maintenance of unhealthy lifestyle habits increases the incidence of developing chronic kidney disease. According to this publication, it is important to avoid a sedentary lifestyle, late night dinners and snacks before bed, in addition to maintaining a healthy diet to prevent kidney dysfunction.

In this sense, it is convenient to know other habits that have been associated with health difficulties caused by kidney malfunction. This, above all, to raise awareness of the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle to protect kidney functions.

1. Consumption of soft drinks and other carbonated drinks

The consumption of sodas and fizzy drinks is one of the habits that can damage the kidneys. As a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology points out , these types of drinks are rich in phosphoric acid and are usually associated with urinary changes that cause the formation of kidney stones. In turn, the results suggest that they increase the risk of kidney disease.

2. Excess sodium

One of the functions of the kidneys is to metabolize the sodium we ingest through food. The salt that we include so much in our food is the main source of sodium, an element that must be eliminated almost in its entirety.

When we consume too much sodium, the kidneys have to work twice as hard. In the long run, this causes them to be affected. According to information published in the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) , when the kidneys are not healthy, there is a greater accumulation of sodium and fluid in the body.

As a result, swelling in the ankles, increased blood pressure, difficulty breathing, or fluid accumulation around the heart and lungs may occur.

The main way to avoid this daily habit would be to minimize your intake. As salt is an ingredient present in many of the foods we buy and consume on a daily basis, its complete elimination is very complex.

Many experts, doctors and nutritionists recommend using spices such as oregano, cilantro, turmeric or ginger as a salt substitute.

3. Too much caffeine poses a risk to the kidneys

Another publication by the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) notes that moderate coffee consumption generally does not pose a risk to kidney health. To date, there is no evidence to show that drinking 3 or 4 cups of coffee a day increases the risk of kidney disease or the rate of decline in kidney function.

However, there is a relationship between excessive caffeine consumption and a sudden increase in high blood pressure. Therefore, excessive intake of this drink can lead to kidney damage. So the secret lies in drinking coffee and tea in moderation and avoiding commercial energy drinks.

4. Analgesic abuse

The relationship between analgesic abuse and kidney problems is a very controversial issue. Until a few years ago, it was claimed that certain pain relievers could lead to the development of conditions such as analgesic nephropathy.

However, current evidence, such as that shown in a study published in the International Medical Case Reports Journal , questions the role of a single analgesic as the sole cause of analgesic nephropathy.

According to what was observed, the use of medications such as paracetamol does not represent a risk of deterioration in renal function. However, the use of combined analgesics is not recommended. In any case, it is essential to consult doctors and specialists, especially if there are signs of kidney disease.

5. Drinking too much alcohol is harmful to the kidneys

Excessive alcohol consumption is a habit that can damage the kidneys in a short period of time. This product contains toxins and chemicals that are aggressive to the kidneys and liver.

According to information from Alcohol health and research world , this drink can alter the hormonal control mechanisms that regulate the kidneys and, in addition, it produces an electrolyte imbalance.

It is very important to be careful when consuming alcohol, consuming it in moderation and avoiding excesses. Either way, substituting water, smoothies or natural juices for this type of drink is always a better option.

6. Restrain the urge to urinate

When the urge to urinate calls, it is very important to respond to it as soon as possible. Holding back urine is a bad idea, as it can cause long-term damage such as kidney failure or incontinence.

Going too long without urinating can cause serious urinary infections. In this case, they are bacterial infections that affect the urinary tract, due to the germs in the urine accumulated in the bladder.

7. Smoking

In addition to severely compromising respiratory health, smoking can also cause kidney damage. According to a study published in BMC Public Health , smoking is linked to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease and an increase in disease progression. Therefore, it is essential to seek support to stop smoking.

Conclusion

Knowing which habits damage your kidneys is very important to avoid serious complications. We are often deceived with products that claim to be healthy but are actually filled with toxic substances for the body.

You can see a health care professional if you have any questions, and if you already have a kidney problem, you will have fewer excuses to avoid these habits.