10 Common Habits That Secretly Damage Your Kidneys

We’re fairly certain we don’t need to inform you that kidneys are very important for our health and general well-being. It only makes sense, since they have such a vital role to play in our bodies. Or perhaps the plural form would be more suitable here: vital roles.

They filter our blood, eliminate any nasty toxins, neutralize acids and even absorb minerals. The problem is that kidney damage can usually go unnoticed for years. This is because these powerful little organs can function with as little as 20 percent of their capacity!

So now you know why the term ‘silent diseases’ is used for diseases related to your kidneys. And we cannot stress enough how crucial it is to take good care of them before it is too late. So, we’d like to offer you a list of 10 bad habits which put a lot of strain on one’s kidneys.

1. Not Drinking Sufficient Amounts of Water

Kidneys need to be properly hydrated so that they can function without any issues. If you fail to drink the water which is necessary for your system each day, then that can lead to a toxin accumulation in your blood.

The reason is a lack of fluid for draining such toxins through your kidneys. Make sure to avoid this bad habit.

2. Postponing a Much-Needed Bathroom Break

The more you ignore the ‘call of nature’, the more strain you put on your kidneys (and your bladder too!). Regular urine retention most often leads to urine pressure and even possible kidney stones and kidney failure. Listen to your body and heed it when it needs to go.

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3. Too Much Salt

While it’s true that one’s body needs sodium (salt) to function properly, there is indeed too much of a good thing. Consuming too much salt can have an adverse effect, not just by stressing out your kidneys but also raising your blood pressure.

The recommended daily dose of salt is no more than 5 grams. Try not to consume any more than that.

4. Get Rid of Any Sugar Cravings

Did you know that those who consume more than two sugar-filled drinks a day have much more of a chance to have protein in their urine? Trust us, that’s not a good thing, as protein in one’s urine usually represents an early indicator that something is not right with one’s kidneys.

A study conducted by the University in Japan only served to prove this. Too much sugary drinks (or sugar intake in general) leads to protein in one’s urine (Proteinuria), which may be an early sign of kidney disease. The good news is that, if it is discovered in time, it may be reversible.

5. Insufficient Sleep

Not only is proper sleep a major factor in everyone’s overall health, but also for the specific health of their kidneys. Were you aware that the tissue of your kidneys gets renewed during your slumber?

Which means that any interruptions in your sleep may result in kidney damage over time. Another good reason to get some sound sleep.

6. Too Much Animal Protein

Like we said, too much protein (especially from red meat and other animal products) is never good news for one’s kidneys.