It is essential to alter your lifestyle to safeguard your kidneys and lower your risk of cancer to maintain your overall health and well-being. The kidneys are crucial for maintaining fluid balance, removing waste from the blood, and supporting various bodily functions. A poor lifestyle, including excessive consumption of processed foods, high-sodium diets, and alcohol, can place undue strain on the kidneys, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease.

Additionally, behaviors like smoking and inactivity are associated with a higher risk of developing cancer. These risks can be significantly reduced by adopting a healthier lifestyle that includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and avoiding harmful substances.

Making the healthy changes helps to keep the kidneys functioning optimally and strengthens the body's defenses against cancer. Ultimately, Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a proactive step toward long-term health, helping to prevent serious conditions and enhance your quality of life.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. P. S. Vali, a consultant nephrologist and head of the department at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology in Hyderabad, discussed the most important lifestyle mistakes that are damaging to your kidneys.

According to Dr. P.S. Vali, the kidneys are essential organs that filter waste, balance fluids, and regulate blood pressure. However, certain lifestyle habits can harm them, leading to long-term health issues. Here are seven common mistakes that could be damaging your kidneys:

Ignoring Diabetes and Hypertension

Diabetes and hypertension are leading causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Uncontrolled blood sugar and high blood pressure can damage kidney blood vessels, impairing their function over time. Regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle changes are crucial in preventing kidney complications from these conditions.

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Lack of Physical Activity and Obesity

A sedentary lifestyle and obesity significantly increase the risk of kidney disease. Excess weight can lead to conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes, which harm the kidneys. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, lowers blood pressure, and improves insulin sensitivity, all contributing to better kidney health.

High Sodium Intake

Consuming too much salt can increase blood pressure, putting extra strain on the kidneys. High sodium levels make it harder for the kidneys to remove excess fluid, leading to damage over time. Reducing salt intake by avoiding processed foods and using herbs and spices for seasoning can help protect the kidneys.

Overuse of Painkillers

Non-prescription pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can be harmful when taken regularly or in high doses. These drugs can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, causing long-term damage. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a doctor for safer alternatives if pain relief is needed frequently.

High Protein Diets

While protein is essential, excessive consumption, especially from animal sources, can overload the kidneys. A high-protein diet increases waste products like urea, which the kidneys must filter out. Moderation is key—consider incorporating plant-based proteins to reduce the strain on the kidneys.

Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for kidney disease. It reduces blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their function. Moreover, smoking increases the risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, both leading causes of kidney damage. Quitting smoking is one of the best steps to protect kidney and overall health.

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Not Drinking Enough Water

Dehydration can lead to kidney damage. Without enough water, the kidneys can't function properly, leading to waste accumulation in the body. Over time, this can cause kidney stones and chronic kidney disease. Aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to keep your kidneys healthy.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can significantly reduce the risk of kidney damage and promote long-term kidney health. Implementing these small changes in your daily routine can help keep your kidneys functioning optimally.