6 Harmful Habits That Are Damaging Your Kidneys

When it comes to overall health and well-being, your kidneys may not be the first organ you think of. However, these two fist-sized powerhouses situated in the lower back play a critical role in maintaining your body’s overall balance and health. Your kidneys generally filter out waste products from your bloodstream, regulate blood pressure, balance minerals, and help maintain bone health.

Despite their importance, many people unknowingly indulge in habits that can damage these vital organs. In this article, we’ll discuss six harmful habits that are potentially damaging your kidneys.

1. Not Drinking Enough Water

First and foremost, not drinking enough water is a major kidney-damaging habit. Water is crucial for the kidneys as it aids in the excretion of waste products and toxins from the body. When you’re dehydrated, these harmful substances can build up and stress the kidneys.

As Dr. Mayor Boss, a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, points out, “Chronic dehydration over a prolonged period can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These hard masses can cause immense pain and even block the flow of urine, leading to severe kidney issues.”

To avoid this, make sure you’re drinking enough water every day. The amount can vary based on your size, physical activity, and the climate you live in, but a good starting point is eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.

2. Overusing Painkillers

Many people rely on over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers for quick relief from headaches, muscle pain, or inflammation. However, long-term or frequent use of these medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can harm your kidneys.

“Painkillers reduce blood flow to the kidneys and impair their function,” says Dr. Boss. “Over time, this can cause ‘analgesic nephropathy,’ a condition characterized by kidney inflammation and damage.”

Before taking OTC painkillers regularly, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. They can recommend safer alternatives or usage patterns.

3. High Salt Intake

A diet high in salt is not just harmful to your blood pressure – it can also stress your kidneys. Consuming excessive amounts of sodium makes it harder for your kidneys to remove the excess from your body. This results in water retention, which can increase blood pressure and ultimately lead to kidney damage.

Dr. Boss suggests, “Aim for no more than 2300mg of sodium a day, which is approximately one teaspoon of table salt.”

4. Smoking

Smoking has many harmful effects on your body, and your kidneys are not immune. It slows blood flow to the kidneys, consequently impairing their ability to function properly. Plus, smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer by about 50%.

Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your kidney health and overall well-being.

5. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can cause changes in the function of your kidneys and make them less able to filter your blood. Additionally, alcohol dehydrates your body, putting further strain on your kidneys.

“It’s essential to limit your alcohol intake,” advises Dr. Boss. “The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.”

6. Lack of Exercise

Regular physical activity is key to maintaining proper kidney function. Inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle can typically lead to weight gain and increased blood pressure, which are risk factors for kidney disease.

Start with simple steps such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.

Your kidneys play an integral role in your body, and it’s crucial to protect them. By avoiding these six harmful habits and adopting healthier ones, you can maintain good kidney health and overall well-being. Remember, it’s never too late to start taking better care of your kidneys.