The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist, located just below the rib cage on either side of the spine.
The kidneys filter several liters of urine, waste, and excess fluid daily to prevent the accumulation of waste in the body.
The kidneys maintain stable electrolyte levels and produce hormones that help regulate blood pressure, make red blood cells, and keep bones strong. Healthy kidneys are essential for the proper functioning of your entire body. Kidney damage can often go unnoticed, so it’s important to take preventative measures to ensure the health of your kidneys.
Here’s a list of eight common habits you may not realize are putting significant strain on your kidneys and can lead to severe kidney damage over time.
8 bad habits that hurt your kidneys
1. Not drinking enough water
One of the kidneys’ important functions is to filter the blood and remove toxins and wastes that can harm the body. When people don’t drink enough water, these toxins and wastes build up, causing serious damage.
2. Consuming too much salt
The body needs sodium to function properly, but too much can cause damage. Most people consume too much, which can increase blood pressure and stress the kidneys.
3. Retaining urine
It may sound strange, but almost everyone does it. The urge often comes during a car ride, during a phone call, or when there is no toilet nearby. Regular urine retention increases pressure, which can lead to kidney failure. When nature calls, it is best to listen.
4. Drinking too much coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, and caffeine can raise blood pressure and put more stress on the kidneys, just like salt. Over time, excessive consumption of coffee (or caffeine, such as energy drinks) can damage the kidneys.
5. Consuming too much animal protein
Consuming excess animal protein (especially red meat) increases the metabolic load on the kidneys. The more animal protein you eat, the harder your kidneys have to work, which can cause stress and kidney damage.
6. Drinking too much alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol doesn’t just harm your kidneys; it also harms your liver. Most people enjoy a glass of wine or beer here and there, but several drinks a week can increase your risk of kidney damage. Alcohol puts a strain on your kidneys and liver.
7. Abuse of painkillers
Over-the-counter and prescription medications are commonly prescribed to relieve pain without regard to the harmful side effects that may result. Excessive or abusive use of painkillers can lead to serious kidney and liver damage.
8. Depriving yourself of sleep
Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to many health problems, including kidney disease. The body works while you sleep to repair kidney tissue that may be damaged. Therefore, depriving the body of sleep makes it harder to heal.
