Common Daily Mistakes Leading to Kidney Health Risk

Protect Your Kidneys: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Your kidneys are small but mighty organs, working tirelessly to filter waste, balance electrolytes, and regulate blood pressure. They process around 200 quarts of blood daily, ensuring your body runs smoothly. Yet, despite their importance, we often unknowingly make mistakes that put them at risk.

From unhealthy lifestyle choices to neglecting hydration, daily habits can strain kidney health, leading to issues like exhaustion, headaches, CKD, and more. So, what should you do to avoid kidney damage and keep them in optimal working condition?

Keep reading this blog for a better insight!

What are Kidney Health Risks?

Kidney failure occurs when one or both kidneys lose the ability to function and perform their usual tasks. This can be caused by chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes or by acute kidney injuries. 

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) refers to a condition that is caused by gradual loss of overall kidney function. The kidneys become unable to remove waste as well as excess water from the blood, which leads to a buildup of electrolytes, fluids, and other toxins in the body. Such a circumstance can become detrimental if prolonged.

Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury occurs when the kidneys are unable to filter blood, leading to high levels of waste buildup. Such conditions can range from mild to severe and, if left untreated, can progress rapidly, proving to be fatal. Thus, immediate medical attention is crucial in such cases. 

Additionally, avoiding bad habits, like smoking, drinking alcohol, excessive salt intake, etc., and treating infections can assist in preventing more serious issues from arising.

Kidney Infection

Kidney infections are a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can begin in the urethra and quickly spread to one or both kidneys. Such medical issues need immediate treatment, which, if delayed, can lead to serious complications like blood poisoning, kidney scarring, and pregnancy complications. 

Common Causes of Kidney Damage You Should Know

The common causes of kidney damage are as follows:

●  Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

It is common for patients with diabetes and high blood pressure to develop chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure if such conditions are left untreated. Due to poor regulation of blood glucose levels, multiple organs, including kidneys, are gradually destroyed by hyperglycemia, which is a major contributing factor to diabetes. 

Additionally, extremely elevated blood pressure exerts a lot of force against blood vessels, resulting in the loss of some kidney functions over time.

●  Other Factors

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and dominantly inherited glomerular diseases cause damage to kidneys as well. Additionally, it results from some conditions, such as autoimmune lupus. In this regard, some patients progress to kidney failure in a very short time. Meanwhile, others may even develop acute kidney injury. 

This usually tends to happen due to dehydration, autoimmune kidney diseases, or factors like heart disease and certain medications. Furthermore, in some cases, urinary tract obstructions trigger acute kidney injury.

What to Avoid When You Have a Kidney Infection?

When dealing with a kidney infection, your diet plays a critical role in your recovery. Certain foods and beverages can worsen symptoms and increase stress on your kidneys. Take a look at the list below to learn the items that you should avoid:

1.High-Sodium Foods

Sodium can cause your body to retain water, raising blood pressure and overloading your kidneys. Processed foods like canned soups, ready meals, and salty snacks should also be avoided. Even some breakfast cereals and salad dressings may contain hidden sodium. 

OPT for fresh, homemade meals flavored with herbs and spices instead.

2.Protein Overload

While protein is essential, too much of it can strain your kidneys, especially during an infection. Excess protein metabolism creates waste products that your kidneys need to filter. Red meats, poultry, fish, and eggs should be consumed in moderation. Instead, try plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, or tofu, which are gentler on your kidneys.

3.Sugary Foods

Excess sugar can cause inflammation, which aggravates kidney infection symptoms. It can also lead to high blood sugar and weight gain, both harmful to kidney function. Avoid sugary treats like cakes, pastries, and fizzy drinks. Choose fresh fruits like apples or berries and consume them in moderation to satisfy your sweet cravings.

4.Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine is a diuretic, which increases urination and can lead to dehydration. Dehydration worsens kidney infections and slows down recovery. Avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks, and sodas with caffeine. Staying hydrated is essential to flush out toxins and bacteria effectively.

5.Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates your body and weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. It can also interfere with antibiotics, reducing their effectiveness. Thus, it's best to avoid alcohol completely while recovering from a kidney infection.

6.Spicy and Acidic Foods

Spicy and acidic foods like chillies, hot sauces, and citrus fruits can irritate the urinary tract. This irritation may increase the pain and discomfort associated with a kidney infection. Stick to bland, mild foods like plain rice, boiled vegetables, and mild soups to reduce irritation.

7.Foods High in Oxalates

Foods rich in oxalates, such as spinach, beets, and certain nuts, can contribute to kidney stone formation. These foods should be avoided during a kidney infection to prevent complications and further strain on your kidneys.

8.Dairy Products

Dairy products are high in calcium and phosphorus, which can accumulate in the body when kidney function is compromised. Thus, excessive dairy intake may stress your kidneys. Consider limiting dairy and choosing alternatives like almond or oat milk.

9.High-Potassium Foods

Potassium is crucial for body function, but too much can overwhelm your kidneys during an infection. Food items like avocados, bananas, and potatoes are high in potassium and should consumed in moderation. Instead, opt for low-potassium alternatives like apples, berries, cauliflower, and courgettes.

By avoiding these foods and drinks, you can help support your kidneys and speed up your recovery from a kidney infection.

Everyday Mistakes That May Be Damaging Your Kidneys

Your kidneys play a crucial role in keeping your body healthy. However, certain everyday habits can unintentionally harm them. Some of the common ones are listed below:

1.Not Eating a Balanced Diet

A diet lacking fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can strain kidney function. Processed meats, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats should be limited. Focus on nutrient-rich foods to support kidney health and reduce the risk of kidney cancer.

2.Excess Weight

Being overweight can put unnecessary stress on your kidneys. Regular exercise and mindful eating help maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of kidney disease and cancer.

3.Not Drinking Enough Water

Dehydration can impair kidney function and waste elimination. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your kidneys hydrated and working optimally.

4.Smoking and Excessive Alcohol

Both smoking and excessive alcohol are major risk factors for kidney cancer. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can significantly reduce kidney damage and cancer risk.

5.Ignoring Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can slowly damage your kidneys. Regularly monitor your blood pressure levels and keep them in a healthy range through diet, exercise, and, if needed, medication.

6.High Blood Sugar Levels

If you have diabetes, your kidneys are at higher risk of disease. Manage blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication to prevent kidney complications.

7.Overusing Pain Relievers

Excessive use of NSAIDs can harm your kidneys. Use these medications sparingly and consult with a healthcare professional for safer alternatives.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your kidneys and improve your overall health.

Effective Tips on How to Clean Your Kidneys

Keeping your kidneys healthy is essential for overall well-being. Here are some natural and effective tips to help cleanse your kidneys:

1.Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful tool for kidney health. It prevents oxidative stress and increases antioxidants in the body. It also helps balance blood sugar and lowers blood pressure. Citric acid in apple cider vinegar dissolves kidney stones and flushes out toxins from the kidneys.

2.Kidney Beans

Kidney beans, which resemble the kidneys, are great for cleansing. They help remove waste and toxins, flush out kidney stones, and boost urinary tract function. Rich in Vitamin B and fiber, kidney beans play a vital role in maintaining kidney health.

3.Lemon Juice

Lemon juice increases citrate levels in urine, preventing kidney stone formation. It also filters blood and flushes out waste and toxins. Drinking diluted lemon juice daily can reduce the rate of kidney stone formation and help dissolve calcium oxalate crystals.

4.Watermelon

Watermelon is a mild diuretic that hydrates and cleanses the kidneys. It’s rich in lycopene, which supports cardiovascular health and kidney function. The potassium salts in watermelon regulate urine acidity, preventing kidney stone formation.

5.Pomegranate

Pomegranate, including its juice and seeds, is packed with potassium, which helps remove kidney stones. It lowers urine acidity, prevents stone formation, and flushes out waste from the kidneys.

6.Basil

Basil is a natural diuretic that improves kidney health. It helps break down kidney stones, lowers uric acid levels, and promotes the smooth removal of stones. Additionally, it has pain-relieving properties.

7.Dates

Soaking dates in water for 24 hours and consuming them helps dissolve kidney stones. Also, dates are rich in fiber and magnesium, both of which cleanse the kidneys and reduce the risk of stones.

8.Dandelion

Dandelion tea, made from dried or fresh roots, is great for kidney health. It acts as a kidney tonic, stimulates bile production, and improves digestion, reducing the waste burden on your kidneys.

9.Drinking More Water

Drinking more water helps you to prevent kidney problems as it filters out waste products by urine. 
Now that you understand why kidney damage occurs, you can make mindful choices in order to support their optimal functioning. By adopting healthy habits, such as eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing weight, and avoiding harmful substances, you can significantly reduce the risk of kidney damage.