Here are common habits that you may not realize are damaging your kidneys.
Over-the-counter medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are helpful in alleviating painful symptoms. However, if not used correctly or abused, they can harm your kidneys, especially if you already have kidney disease. Reduce your regular NSAID use, make sure to read the directions, and never take more than the recommended dose.
Using too much salt
Foods and diets high in salt (sodium) can raise blood pressure, damaging the kidneys. Try flavoring your food with herbs and spices instead of adding too much salt. Over time, this habit will help you avoid adding salt to your food.
Not drinking enough water
Staying hydrated is beneficial to your health for many reasons, especially your kidneys. Staying well hydrated will aid your kidneys in their efforts to remove sodium and toxins from your body. Drinking enough water is also one of the best ways to avoid kidney stones. Drinking about 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day is a healthy goal for the average adult.
Smoke
Everyone knows that smoking is not good for your lungs and heart. But what you may not be aware of are the effects of your smoking habits on your kidneys. Smokers often have a lot of protein in their urine—a sign of kidney damage.
Drinking too much alcohol
Drinking more than four glasses of alcohol a day is considered excessive or excessive drinking. Regular heavy drinking has been found to double the risk of chronic kidney disease. People who regularly smoke and drink a lot of alcohol have an even higher risk of kidney problems. Limit alcohol intake back to less than four drinks per day to prevent future kidney problems.
