7 silent ‘culprits’ that weaken the kidneys

The kidneys are organs that silently filter waste, balance fluid and maintain stable blood pressure. Kidney diseases often develop slowly, without clear signs, making many people subjective. Many cases only realize the problem when the disease has progressed to a late stage, with symptoms such as fatigue, edema, difficulty concentrating, and even requiring dialysis or kidney transplant.

Early identification of risk factors, especially related to diet and lifestyle, plays an important role in disease prevention.

Load up on unhealthy foods

A common cause of kidney damage can come from familiar everyday foods if eaten in excess. These include processed foods (packaged foods, instant noodles, sausages, cold meats), sugary drinks (soft drinks, energy drinks), fried foods and refined starches… These foods can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes and hypertension – the three leading causes of kidney failure.

Eat salty food

The kidneys are responsible for regulating water and electrolytes in the body. Eating salty food for a long time can increase blood pressure, thereby causing kidney damage. In addition, high sodium intake also causes water retention, increasing the burden on the kidneys. Reducing salt is one of the simple and effective ways to protect this organ.

Taking in too much protein

A high-protein diet is not harmful to healthy people with normal kidney function. However, this is not suitable for people with impaired kidney function. Protein metabolism produces nitrogenous waste products, which must be filtered out by the kidneys. People with kidney disease (even undiagnosed) who eat a lot of protein can make the disease progress faster.

People with diabetes, hypertension or a family history of kidney disease should consult their doctor before adopting a high-protein diet or taking protein supplements.

Not drinking enough water for a long time

Drinking enough water helps the kidneys continuously filter and remove waste from the blood through urine, while also helping to maintain blood circulation to the kidneys and prevent kidney stones. Regularly not getting enough fluids significantly increases your risk of chronic kidney disease, but drinking too much can also be harmful. Maintaining a balanced amount of water (1.8-2 liters for adults) in accordance with each individual’s needs is an important factor for optimal kidney function.

Abuse of pain relievers

Some pain relievers work by inhibiting prostaglandins, which reduces blood flow to the kidneys, especially causing greater pressure in people with underlying medical conditions, high blood pressure or dehydration.

Not checking blood pressure and blood sugar regularly

Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of kidney failure, due to gradual damage to the kidney’s filtering system over time. Neglecting to periodically check these indicators causes the damage to silently progress and get worse.

arbitrarily use dietary supplements

Using dietary supplements or herbs without professional advice can pose serious risks to the kidneys. Some products may contain kidney toxins, such as aristolochic acid, while excessive vitamin supplements can also cause poisoning.

Some changes in diet and daily activities can help protect the kidneys. Maintain a balanced diet, get enough protein, whole grains and green vegetables, prioritize fresh foods, home-cooked foods and limit processed foods. Use natural spices like lemon, garlic, herbs instead of salt, and drink enough water. At the same time, have regular health checks to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar and kidney function.