10 Little Habits That Increase Risk of Kidney Damage - Of course, no one wants to have impaired kidney function. But apparently, damaged kidneys can be affected by a variety of small and trivial habits. Some of them may indeed need the commitment to stop it because it is ingrained.
The risk of kidney damage can increase due to this habit. |
| Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash |
1. Consuming excessive salt
Sodium in salt can trigger high blood pressure. If not controlled, high blood pressure or hypertension is not only dangerous for the heart but also makes the kidneys become damaged. In fact, high blood pressure is one of the causes of kidney failure.
Tip: To reduce salt intake, you can replace it with various herbs and flavoring. For example, basil, basil, rosemary, and oregano leaves.
2. Don't drink enough water
Maintaining adequate body fluids is essential to help the kidneys remove sodium and toxic substances from the body. The risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections can also be reduced if water needs can be met.
Tip: Everyone's fluid requirements can be different because they are determined by various factors. Simply put, you should drink when you feel thirsty when it's hot, have diarrhea and vomiting, and when you sweat.
3. Excessive pain medication
Pain relievers, such as anti-inflammatory steroid drugs (NSAIDs), actually have an effect on the kidneys. This warning must be specially noted if you have a history of kidney disorders.
Tip: Always share your medical history with your doctor before getting medication. Also, avoid using drugs outside the recommended dose, both over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
4. Eat processed foods
Processed food or transformed into fields of sodium and phosphorus. Even though it is a mineral that the body needs, its excess levels can damage the kidneys. Several studies also revealed, excessive consumption of phosphorus risks endangering the organs and bones.
Tip: You can try to reduce (and avoid) processed foods to maintain a healthy body, including kidney organs.
5. Consume excessive meat
Consumption of too much animal protein can cause high levels of acid in the bloodstream and can lead to acidosis. Acidosis occurs when the kidneys are unable to secrete acid properly. The complications of acidosis also vary, including kidney stones and kidney failure.
Tips: Protein is, indeed, a vital macronutrient for the body. However, make sure you do not consume too much while balancing with vegetables and fruits.
6. Lack of rest
Lack of sleep can be dangerous for various systems and organs of the body, including the kidneys. The reason is, kidney function is regulated by the sleep cycle and the wake cycle. This cycle helps control the workflow of the organs for 24 hours.
Tip: Make sure you meet the needs of sleep, which is 7-9 hours for adults. If you have trouble sleeping, consulting a doctor is strongly recommended.
7. Consume too much sugar
You may already know, sugar can trigger weight gain and obesity conditions. Obesity can increase the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, two medical problems that also cause kidney disease.
Tip: You are advised to always be careful in reading information on the nutritional value of food. Snack and consumption of food and beverages today also fit for control.
8. Smoking
Cigarettes do not provide any health benefits, including in the kidneys. Apparently, people who smoke are more likely to pass urine containing protein, a sign that something is wrong with the kidneys.
Tip: If you are currently smoking, consider starting to stop this habit.
9. Consuming alcohol
Excessive individuals who drink alcohol have a two-fold increased risk of chronic kidney disease. If you are an alcoholic plus a smoker, your risk may increase by up to five times.
Tips: Reducing alcohol intake is a way to maintain kidney health. Because the drinking limit for alcohol can vary depending on the type of drink, you are advised to see a doctor find out the limits that suit your body.
10. Less moving
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| Photo by Fitsum Admasu on Unsplash |
Tip: If you are a worker who sits more all the time, you can allocate time to move and stand for a few minutes. Do not forget, find time to exercise that is easy for you to do, like walking and running.
