Health and Me

Ishita Srivastava

Experts Reveal The Everyday Habits Ruining Your Kidney Function | World Kidney Day

As people across the globe observe World Kidney Day, experts are sounding the alarm over the dangerous everyday habits that are worsening your kidney function and paving the way for the development of chronic conditions.

Dr Neha Bhandari, Senior Consultant, Pediatric Nephrology, Aakash Healthcare exclusively tells Healthandme: "Kidneys are very crucial in ensuring that the body maintains its internal equilibrium by filtering wastes, fluid regulation, electrolytes regulation, and in the process of assisting in blood pressure regulation as well.

"Nevertheless, a number of general living habits that have developed as part of contemporary everyday activity such as high painkiller use, large intake of processed foods and progressively sedentary lifestyles have the potential of slowly damaging the kidney functions. Since the damage of the kidneys frequently happens without any symptoms, and has no symptoms in severe cases, such simple habits can become a serious problem in the long-term, without any treatment."

Dr A K Jayaraj, MBBS, MS (Gen Surgery), MCH (Urology) at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai also told this publication: "From the painkillers people take to relieve pain to the food they eat and the lifestyle they lead, there are a number of factors that can affect the functioning of these small but powerful organs. 

"Focusing on these three factors helps keep these internal filters running smoothly by supporting clear blood flow, steady blood pressure, and balanced energy levels."

Here are the habits you need to keep an eye out for to protect your kidneys:

<h2>1. The Hidden Danger of Pain Killers</h2>Dr Jayaraj warns that readily-available painkillers meant for headaches and other pains can cause serious damage to the kidneys. He said: "Most individuals have painkillers in their medicine cabinets, ready to be used whenever headaches or muscle aches occur. Painkillers are dangerous to the kidneys, especially when their use is frequent in the long run.

"Pain killers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are known to constrict the blood vessels that lead to the kidneys. Constricted blood vessels limit the ability of the kidneys to filter blood, and frequent use of painkillers in the long run may lead to scarring or chronic diseases in the kidneys. It is always better to use the lowest

dose possible and look for other alternatives to pain killers, such as physical therapy, bed rest or heat packs."

Moreover, Dr Bhandari added: "In the long run, the continuous intake of these kinds of medicines can cause long-term kidney damage to the person, particularly those who are already predisposed to other conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and dehydration or people who already have kidney disease. Overdosing with painkillers may also cause a situation called analgesic nephropathy which involves progressive renal damage and functional weakness of the kidney as a result of constant exposure to the drugs."

<h2>2. The Burden of Processed Foods</h2>Multiple studies show that ultra processed foods (UPFs) can be harmful to the heart, brain, liver and overall wellbeing. However, experts also warn that consuming UPFs can be extremely dangerous for kidney health and can cause long-term damage.

"What a person eats directly affects how hard their kidneys have to work. Modern processed foods are often a "triple threat" because of their high levels of salt, sugar, and chemical additives.

<ul><li>"High Salt: Processed meats and canned goods are packed with sodium, which raises blood pressure. Since kidneys are filled with delicate blood vessels, high pressure can wear them out quickly.</li><li>"Preservatives: Many packaged snack foods contain preservatives, which are chemicals used to extend the shelf life of the food product. These chemicals are much more difficult for the kidneys to flush out of the system than natural minerals, leading to a buildup of toxins in the blood. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains are much better for the kidneys, as they do not contain preservatives," Dr Jayaraj said. </li></ul>Dr Bhandari also explained: "The other issue of concern regarding our diets is the consumption of ultra-processed foods that contain high levels of refined sugars and unhealthy fats. These eating habits are directly related to obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, which are all risk factors that make <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/chronic-kidney-disease">chronic kidney disease</a> highly probable. The number of diabetics continues to be one of the most prevalent causes of kidney damage in the entire globe because constantly high blood sugar levels may eventually cause slow deterioration of the fine filtering structures of the kidneys.

While doctors around the world note that having an active lifestyle can do wonders for both mental and physical health, Dr Bhandari highlights the dangers of not incorporating a workout in your routine. 

She tells Healthandme: "Lack of exercise leads to weight gain, poor metabolic health, insulin resistance, and blood pressure all of which are great risk factors of kidney disease. The immobility also impacts circulation and general cardiovascular health, which in turn indirectly impacts on the effectiveness of the kidney functionality needs as adequate blood flow is needed to make the kidney processes effectively. 

"Those who work long hours sitting with little physical activity during the time can gradually be a contributor to the disease conditions, which increases the damage to kidneys without thinking of the side effects of the disease in the long term.

"Indirect contribution can also be made by hydration habits. Most people replaced water with sweet drinks or caffeinated ones or soft drinks, which may lead to metabolic disorders and an overload of the kidney. Proper filtration and aiding in the excretion of toxins and metabolic waste into the body is facilitated by the adequate water intake."

"Weight gain and high blood sugar are the primary causes of <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/kidney-failure">kidney failure</a>. Daily exercise, such as a 30-minute walk every day, helps the body regulate blood sugar well and maintain healthy blood pressure at all times. This, in turn, does not overwork the kidneys and allows them to perform at optimal capacity," Dr Jayaraj advised.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

kidneys

world kidney day

Chronic kidney disease

kidney failure

neha bhandari

dr jayaraj

nsaids

salt

Kidney health

Kidney Stones

CDSCO threatens action against pharma companies for promoting GLP-1 weight-loss drugs

The Early Warning Signs of Chronic Kidney Disease You Shouldn't Ignore

Health & Wellness

8 Sit-Up Variations to Strengthen Your Core and Build Stability

Benefits Of Ayurvedic Health Supplement Ashwagandha

9 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Options You Should Try

5 Foods You Should Avoid For PCOS, Says Gynecologist

Love Sitting With Your Legs Crossed? Here’s You Should Avoid It

6 Daily Foods That Are Secretly Increasing Your Calories

9 Brain Boosters You Should Do Everyday

Hip Exercises That Will Keep You Flexible As You Age

9 Leg Exercises Office Workers’ Should Do At Home

Benefits of Having Herbal Tea Every Morning

9 Daily Habits That Boost Your Brain Power

Lower-Body Exercises That Are Game-Changers

How Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Helps You

Aging Myths You Should Never Believe

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Instant Noodles Every Day?

Health Issues Premature Babies Often Face

Exercises Office Workers Should Do For Their Heart Health

Reasons Why You Should Add Raw Turmeric To Your Diet

Benefits Of Drinking Milk At Night: Why You Should Do It

Food That Provides Vitamin B12 Naturally In Your Diet

Surprising Health Benefits Of Fenugreek Seeds

9 Superfoods You Should Eat For Your Brain Health

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

As people across the globe observe World Kidney Day, experts are sounding the alarm over the dangerous everyday habits that are worsening your kidney function and paving the way for the development of chronic conditions. Dr Neha Bhandari, Senior Consultant, Pediatric Nephrology, Aakash Healthcare exclusively tells Healthandme: "Kidneys are very crucial in ensuring that the body maintains its internal equilibrium by filtering wastes, fluid regulation, electrolytes regulation, and in the process of assisting in blood pressure regulation as well. "Nevertheless, a number of general living habits that have developed as part of contemporary everyday activity such as high painkiller use, large intake of processed foods and progressively sedentary lifestyles have the potential of slowly damaging the kidney functions. Since the damage of the kidneys frequently happens without any symptoms, and has no symptoms in severe cases, such simple habits can become a serious problem in the long-term, without any treatment."Dr A K Jayaraj, MBBS, MS (Gen Surgery), MCH (Urology) at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai also told this publication: "From the painkillers people take to relieve pain to the food they eat and the lifestyle they lead, there are a number of factors that can affect the functioning of these small but powerful organs. "Focusing on these three factors helps keep these internal filters running smoothly by supporting clear blood flow, steady blood pressure, and balanced energy levels."Here are the habits you need to keep an eye out for to protect your kidneys: 1. The Hidden Danger of Pain KillersDr Jayaraj warns that readily-available painkillers meant for headaches and other pains can cause serious damage to the kidneys. He said: "Most individuals have painkillers in their medicine cabinets, ready to be used whenever headaches or muscle aches occur. Painkillers are dangerous to the kidneys, especially when their use is frequent in the long run. "Pain killers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are known to constrict the blood vessels that lead to the kidneys. Constricted blood vessels limit the ability of the kidneys to filter blood, and frequent use of painkillers in the long run may lead to scarring or chronic diseases in the kidneys. It is always better to use the lowestdose possible and look for other alternatives to pain killers, such as physical therapy, bed rest or heat packs."Moreover, Dr Bhandari added: "In the long run, the continuous intake of these kinds of medicines can cause long-term kidney damage to the person, particularly those who are already predisposed to other conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and dehydration or people who already have kidney disease. Overdosing with painkillers may also cause a situation called analgesic nephropathy which involves progressive renal damage and functional weakness of the kidney as a result of constant exposure to the drugs."2. The Burden of Processed FoodsMultiple studies show that ultra processed foods (UPFs) can be harmful to the heart, brain, liver and overall wellbeing. However, experts also warn that consuming UPFs can be extremely dangerous for kidney health and can cause long-term damage. "What a person eats directly affects how hard their kidneys have to work. Modern processed foods are often a "triple threat" because of their high levels of salt, sugar, and chemical additives."High Salt: Processed meats and canned goods are packed with sodium, which raises blood pressure. Since kidneys are filled with delicate blood vessels, high pressure can wear them out quickly."Preservatives: Many packaged snack foods contain preservatives, which are chemicals used to extend the shelf life of the food product. These chemicals are much more difficult for the kidneys to flush out of the system than natural minerals, leading to a buildup of toxins in the blood. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains are much better for the kidneys, as they do not contain preservatives," Dr Jayaraj said. Dr Bhandari also explained: "The other issue of concern regarding our diets is the consumption of ultra-processed foods that contain high levels of refined sugars and unhealthy fats. These eating habits are directly related to obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, which are all risk factors that make chronic kidney disease highly probable. The number of diabetics continues to be one of the most prevalent causes of kidney damage in the entire globe because constantly high blood sugar levels may eventually cause slow deterioration of the fine filtering structures of the kidneys.3. The Importance of Fitness While doctors around the world note that having an active lifestyle can do wonders for both mental and physical health, Dr Bhandari highlights the dangers of not incorporating a workout in your routine. She tells Healthandme: "Lack of exercise leads to weight gain, poor metabolic health, insulin resistance, and blood pressure all of which are great risk factors of kidney disease. The immobility also impacts circulation and general cardiovascular health, which in turn indirectly impacts on the effectiveness of the kidney functionality needs as adequate blood flow is needed to make the kidney processes effectively. "Those who work long hours sitting with little physical activity during the time can gradually be a contributor to the disease conditions, which increases the damage to kidneys without thinking of the side effects of the disease in the long term."Indirect contribution can also be made by hydration habits. Most people replaced water with sweet drinks or caffeinated ones or soft drinks, which may lead to metabolic disorders and an overload of the kidney. Proper filtration and aiding in the excretion of toxins and metabolic waste into the body is facilitated by the adequate water intake.""Weight gain and high blood sugar are the primary causes of kidney failure. Daily exercise, such as a 30-minute walk every day, helps the body regulate blood sugar well and maintain healthy blood pressure at all times. This, in turn, does not overwork the kidneys and allows them to perform at optimal capacity," Dr Jayaraj advised.