The kidney is one of the most important organ in the body and has a wide range of functions. Some of these roles includes metabolic function and blood detoxification. According to the National Institute of Health, the two kidneys filter about 120 to 150 quarts of blood and produce about 1 to 2 quarts of urine. There are many bad habits we indulge in everyday without knowing the negative impact it has on our body. To stay healthy, it’s important to keep the kidney functioning properly and avoid any habits that can lead to kidney damage.
Functions of the Kidney
- It filters and disposes waste materials in the body .
- Regulates and balance water and minerals according to our body’s needs.
- Maintains a healthy balance of acids in the body.
- Purifies the blood daily.
- Regulates blood pressure.
- Regulates the production of red blood cell.
Habits That Damage the Kidney
Alcohol
Alcohol is a toxin in our body and puts a lot of stress on our kidneys and liver. It causes dehydration and disrupts the normal functioning of the kidneys. Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the causes of kidney or liver problems. Always drink alcohol in moderation. The healthy recommended amount is 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women.
Waiting too Long to Empty your Bladder
Delay in urinating can lead to many complications. It can cause bladder pressure and weakness. It can also increase the risk of infections and stones.
Not Drinking Enough Water
One of the main function of the kidney is to filter blood and get rid of toxins and waste materials that can harm the body. Not drinking enough water, can lead to the accumulation of toxins which can lead to kidney problem. Hydrating properly is important to help the kidney function properly. It prevents the accumulation of toxins in the body. The National Kidney Foundation recommends drinking 10-12 glasses of water a day, to keep the body hydrated.
Eating too much Protein
Eating too much protein can increase the risk of kidney damage . High protein intake increases the metabolic load of the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney disease. This means the more protein you eat the harder the kidney works and this can later lead to kidney problems.
Consuming too much sodium
The kidneys metabolizes the sodium we consume. Most of our sodium intake needs to be excreted. The main source of sodium in the body is through the salt we eat. When we eat excessive salt all the time, the kidneys works hard to excrete it. This causes long term stress on our kidneys.
Excess amounts of caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant and can lead to an increase in blood pressure.Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine can damage the kidneys and increase the excretion of calcium in the urine, causing kidney stones as well.
Quit smoking
smoking can have serious and harmful effects on your kidneys. It causes blockage formation in the blood vessels. This means the kidneys won’t get the appropriate blood flow. Smoking also increases blood pressure and if you already have high blood pressure, it makes it worst. Giving up smoking is the best way to avoid kidney disease. the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology references different studies that shows the link between smoking and kidney diseases.
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