- By Iram Hussain
- Wed, 12 Mar 2025 05:45 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
World Kidney Day 2025: The kidney plays an important role in removing waste products and excess fluid from the body. These waste products are removed through urine. Urine is produced by several highly complex excretion and reabsorption processes. This mechanism is essential for maintaining a stable equilibrium of bodily substances. The kidneys help in controlling the body's levels of acid, potassium and salt. They also generate vitamins and hormones that influence the operation of other organs.
Certain daily routines can slowly degrade kidney function which can go unrecognised until serious harm has been done. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Nitin Kumar, Consultant – Nephrology, Manipal Hospital Patiala listed five everyday habits that can cause harm to your kidneys.
Habits That Can Cause Harm To Kidneys
Overdose Of Painkillers- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines) and analgesics are two examples of over-the-counter pain treatments that can relieve pain. One may harm the kidneys, especially if someone has kidney disease. Reduce the dose of NSAID use and never take more than the recommended dose.
Insufficient Water Intake- Kidney injury may occur from not drinking enough water, particularly if people work hard or are in hot weather. Water aids in waste removal by the kidneys. It also improves the effectiveness of UTI medications and helps prevent kidney stones. Fluid restriction may be necessary for people who have chronic kidney disease.
Consuming Too Much Meat- Protein is an important aspect of the diet. It improves muscle growth, healing, infection resistance, and overall health. The amount of protein required varies according to our age, gender and health. Animal proteins such as meat, dairy and eggs, give all the necessary building blocks but some are high in harmful fats. Fish, poultry and low-fat dairy contain fewer of these fats, making them healthier for the heart. In individuals with kidney disease, excessive protein intake can lead to waste accumulation, increasing the strain on kidney function.
Holding Urine For Longer Times- Ignoring the body’s natural urge to urinate could end up in kidney problems and urinary tract infections. Long-term urine retention raises the possibility of bacterial growth which can reach the kidneys and lead to infections or possibly permanent harm. Avoiding needless kidney strain can be achieved by maintaining good urinary habits and routinely emptying the bladder.
Excessive Alcohol Use- Drinking too much can damage the kidneys. The kidneys aid in maintaining the proper balance of water in the body, besides filtering blood but alcohol dehydrates the body which might create an issue in this equilibrium. Excessive alcohol consumption can also damage the liver which makes the kidneys work harder and increase blood pressure which is a major cause of renal disease.
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