Over the counter pain medicines, such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), may alleviate your aches and pains, but they can harm the kidneys, especially if you already have kidney disease. Reduce your regular use of NSAIDs and never go over the recommended dosage.

 

Diets high in salt are high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and, in turn, harm your kidneys.  Flavor your foods with herbs and spices instead of salt.  Over time, you may find it easier to avoid using salt (sodium) on your food. 

 

Processed foods are significant sources of sodium and phosphorus. Many people who have kidney disease need to limit phosphorus in their diets. Some studies have shown that high phosphorus intake from processed foods in people without kidney disease may be harmful to their kidneys and bones.  Try adopting the DASH diet to guide your healthy eating habits.

 

Staying well hydrated helps your kidneys clear sodium and toxins from the body. Drinking plenty of water is also one of the best ways to avoid painful kidney stones. Those with kidney problems or kidney failure may need to restrict their fluid intake, but for most people, drinking 1.5 to 2 liters (3 to 4 pints) of water per day is a healthy target.

 

A good night rest is extremely important to your overall well-being. Kidney function is regulated by the sleep-wake cycle which helps coordinate the kidneys’ workload over 24 hours.  Research shows that people who sleep less usually have faster kidney function decline.

 

Animal protein generates high amounts of acid in the blood that can be harmful to the kidneys and cause acidosis – a condition in which kidneys cannot eliminate acid fast enough. Protein is needed for growth, upkeep and repair of all parts of the body but your diet should be well balanced with fruits and vegetables.

 

Sugar contributes to obesity which increases your risk of developing high blood pressure and diabetes. In addition to desserts, sugar is often added to foods and drinks that you may not consider “sweet.” Avoid condiments, breakfast cereals, and white bread which are all sneaky sources of processed sugar. Pay attention to the ingredients when buying packaged goods to avoid added sugar in your diet.

 

It is important to keep track of your blood pressure since hypertension is a leading cause of kidney damage. Keep to the recommended levels set by your doctor and take measures to control any high blood pressure. The level is usually set at under 140/90 mm Hg.

 

Regular heavy drinking – more than four drinks a day – has been found to double the risk chronic kidney disease. Heavy drinkers who also smoke have an even higher risk of kidney problems. Smokers who are heavy drinkers have about five times the chance of developing chronic kidney disease than people who do not smoke or drink alcohol in excess.

 

Not urinating often enough can be bad for your kidneys. Natures call is meant to be answered in a regular, timely manner and if you do not, your body and kidneys in particular retain all the toxins meant to be expelled. Over time, this can actually lead to urine incontinence as well as kidney stones and other forms of kidney damage.

 

Mawuena Workartey/ ghanahospitals.org