Shocking: Did you know these habits are damaging Your Kidneys?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) prevalence has been observed in many populations to be increasing.

In the developed world, this increase in prevalence has been attributed to an increase in predisposing factors such as diabetes and hypertension.

This observation has also been noted in some developing countries.

However, data on the prevalence of CKD in Nigeria is still emerging.

The relative contributions of predisposing factors such as diabetes and hypertension to the development of CKD in many communities is yet to be adequately elucidated.

Kidney disease kills over 90,000 Americans yearly, according to the National Kidney Foundation.

That’s more than breast and prostate cancer combined.

Experts say small lifestyle changes can help protect your kidneys.

Cut Back on Salt

Too much salt forces the kidneys to work harder. A 2018 study in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension confirmed this risk.

The USDA recommends no more than one teaspoon of salt per day. Most people eat far more.

Avoid Frequent Painkillers

Heavy use of drugs like Tylenol and Advil causes about 5,000 kidney failure cases annually in the U.S. Fasting before taking painkillers worsens the danger. These drugs reduce kidney blood flow and should be used sparingly.

Don’t Ignore Colds

The Centre for Disease Control (CDC), reports most people catch two or three colds per year. Leaving colds untreated may hurt kidney function. Always treat infections early.

Don’t Hold in Urine

Delaying urination allows bacteria to grow. These bacteria can move to the kidneys and cause infections or damage.

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases creatinine levels in the body. This stresses the kidneys. A 2000 study linked smoking to kidney damage. Quitting helps reduce the risk.

Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods contain high sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. These strain the kidneys. Natural foods are safer.

Skip Sugary Sodas

Two or more sodas daily can double your risk of kidney disease. Phosphoric acid in soda worsens the problem.

Get Enough Sleep

A University of Chicago study showed poor sleep habits raise kidney failure risk by 19%. Aim for 7+ hours nightly.

Finish Prescriptions

Stopping medications early confuses your system. This may harm kidney function, especially with blood pressure or pain medicines.

Watch Supplements

High doses of vitamin C or cranberry supplements can cause kidney stones. Natural doesn’t always mean safe.

Exercise Regularly, But Carefully

Exercise lowers blood pressure and boosts kidney health. However, extreme workouts may lead to muscle damage and kidney failure.

Limit Energy Drinks

Too much caffeine and taurine from energy drinks stresses the kidneys. Kids are especially at risk.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration causes kidney stones. Aim for 9 cups of water daily for women, 13 for men.

Cut Red Meat Intake

Red meat increases kidney disease risk. Plant-based proteins reduce that risk by 62%.

Move More at Work

Sitting too long increases your risk. Even one extra hour of standing or walking helps your kidneys.

Use Butter Sparingly

Butter and margarine both raise cholesterol. This stresses the kidneys. Use in moderation.

Avoid Overeating

Large meals make kidneys work harder. Watch your portions, especially during holidays.

Manage Stress

Stress raises blood pressure, which scars kidney tissues. Find time daily to relax.

Reduce Sugar

High blood sugar harms kidneys. It also increases diabetes risk, which further damages kidney function.

Watch Artificial Sweeteners

Diet soda raises kidney disease risk by 30%. Honey or stevia are better alternatives.

Drink Alcohol Moderately

More than four drinks daily overwhelms the kidneys. But one drink a day may be helpful.

Avoid Steroids and Enhancers

Bodybuilding drugs scar kidneys. Long-term use leads to swelling and protein imbalances.

Monitor Heartburn Medications

Proton pump inhibitors raise kidney disease risk. Switch to H2 blockers if used daily.

Check Blood Pressure

High blood pressure silently damages kidney vessels. Check it at least once every two years.

Limit Coffee

Four cups a day is the upper limit. Too much caffeine increases blood pressure and kidney stress.

Eat Healthy Fats Only

Avoid trans fats. Use monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats. They support kidney and heart health.

Sleep Seven Hours Minimum

Deep sleep controls heart rate and blood pressure. Less than seven hours raises heart risk by 58%.

Fight Chronic Stress

Long-term stress harms the kidneys and heart. Relaxation activities help protect your organs.

Eat Fruits and Vegetables

Eat at least five servings daily. Ten servings reduce early death risk by 31%.

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