5 Common Habits That Are Harmful to Your Kidneys

But how to keep it? Dr. Kalyani Perumal, nephrologist, Medical Director of Dialysis (Nephrology Department at Cook County Health, Chicago State Department of Health, USA) and famous American family doctor - Laura Purdy, will explain the unexpected things that are very harmful to the kidneys, you need to avoid to protect your kidneys.

The kidneys' main job is to remove waste from the blood, which is then excreted in urine, Purdy said. They also produce hormones that are important for stimulating new red blood cells and maintaining bone strength, among other important functions, she explained, according to health site Best Life.

Kidney disease is often called the “silent killer,” because many people don’t have any symptoms until it reaches the final stages, warns Purdy.

You could be damaging your kidneys without even knowing it.

You could be damaging your kidneys without even knowing it. Here are 5 common habits that can be dangerous to this vital organ, and you need to change them today.

1. Not drinking enough water

One common habit that can harm your kidneys is not drinking enough water, notes Purdy. Dehydration can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can put stress on the kidneys. Drinking enough water is essential to keeping the body hydrated and helping the kidneys flush out waste and toxins.

2 Eating too much salt

Another common habit is eating too much salt. Salt can cause high blood pressure, which can put a strain on the kidneys, Ms Purdy warns.

Too much animal protein is the same, so limit this source of protein and replace it with plant protein, especially if you are at risk of kidney disease.

Eat plenty of fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, and limit both salt and fat.

Choose foods low in salt, and try to cook for yourself so you can choose healthy ingredients.

Chronic stress leads to many diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and mental illness, which negatively affect the kidneys.

3. Take medicine whenever you have pain.

Many people take painkillers for headaches and runny noses. However, it’s best to avoid taking them on a daily basis. Both experts caution: Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be harmful to the kidneys if used in excess. Follow the recommended dosage and don’t use them for long periods of time.

Even herbal products can cause serious kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes and high blood pressure, so consult your doctor before taking them.

4. Smoking

Everyone knows that smoking is bad for your lungs. But it turns out it’s also bad for your kidneys. Purdy notes that smoking can cause high blood pressure and damage blood vessels, which can lead to a decline in kidney function over time. High blood pressure and diabetes are the leading causes of kidney disease, according to Best Life.

So now you have one more reason to quit smoking.

5. No stress

What does stress have to do with your kidneys? It has a lot to do with it! Dr. Perumal says chronic stress leads to many diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, and mental illness, which negatively affect your kidneys.

Deep breathing, mindfulness, and yoga, tai chi, etc. can help reduce stress. Self-care is important. Take 10 minutes a day to do it.

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