Most people have two kidneys located at the back of the abdomen. Their main job is to filter the blood, remove waste, and maintain the balance of fluids in the body....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE➤
However, certain lifestyle habits and practices can cause serious harm to the kidneys over time. Common kidney issues include kidney disease, infections, and cysts. If you’re keen on keeping these organs healthy, it’s important to know what to avoid from herbal concoctions to alcohol.
Here are five key things that can damage your kidneys based on experts’ warnings:
In Nigeria, many people turn to traditional herbal remedies like Agbo for various ailments. While these concoctions may be touted for their natural healing properties, they can be harmful if taken excessively or without proper guidance. Many herbal mixtures contain unregulated ingredients that can be toxic to the kidneys. Long-term use may lead to kidney failure or other severe health issues.
A medical doctor, Dr Olusina Ajidahun, has raised the alarm on the excessive intake of herbal concoction, better known as Agbo, noting that it could cause various kidney complications, and, in the long run, death.
Ajidahun, who specialises in internal medicine, also said that herbal concoctions might damage the liver and other vital organs.
He told Guardian Life: “A lot of people that consume this concoction (agbo) later have kidney issues in life. This drink has the potential to damage the liver and many organs. This drink has slowly found its way to a prominent cause of kidney damage in Nigerians.”
It’s no secret that excessive drinking can wreak havoc on the body, and kidneys are no exception. Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, forcing kidneys to work overtime to filter out toxins. Over time, this can impair their function and increase the risk of kidney disease. Moderation is key, and it’s best to limit alcohol intake to protect kidneys and overall health.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) said: “Alcohol consumption contributes to 2.6 million deaths each year globally as well as to the disabilities and poor health of millions of people. Overall, harmful use of alcohol is responsible for 4.7% of the global burden of disease.”
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading causes of kidney damage. When blood vessels in the kidneys are damaged by increased pressure, their ability to filter waste from the blood is compromised. Managing blood pressure through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and prescribed medications is important to preventing kidney damage.
Uncontrolled diabetes can cause damage to the kidneys’ blood vessels, a condition known as diabetic nephropathy. High blood sugar levels over time strain the kidneys and may lead to kidney failure. Keeping your blood sugar in check through a balanced diet and proper medication is essential for protecting your kidneys.
“Over time, diabetes can damage blood vessels in the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. People with diabetes have a higher risk of health problems including heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. Diabetes can cause permanent vision loss by damaging blood vessels in the eyes,” WHO stated
Overuse or misuse of certain drugs, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can take a serious toll on kidneys. While these medications are commonly used to relieve pain, taking them in high doses or for prolonged periods can lead to kidney damage, experts have warned.
Beyond these five main culprits, other habits can also contribute to kidney damage. Here’s what else to be cautious about:
Smoking: According to experts, smoking restricts blood flow to the kidneys, reducing their ability to function properly and raising the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Bleaching Cream: Certain skin-lightening creams contain harmful chemicals like mercury, which can be absorbed into the bloodstream and cause kidney damage.
Skipping Routine Medications: If you’re prescribed medications for conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, neglecting to take them can exacerbate these issues, further harming your kidneys.
Lack of Routine Health Checks: Regular testing for blood pressure, blood sugar, and kidney function is essential for catching early signs of damage. Staying on top of your health with routine tests can help you take preventive measures before any significant harm is done.
Your kidneys are essential to keeping your body in balance, and adopting healthy habits can go a long way in preserving their function. By avoiding excessive alcohol, herbal concoctions, drug misuse, and other risky behaviours, you can reduce your risk of kidney damage. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are your best allies in keeping your kidneys—and the rest of your body—in good shape. ...CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE➤
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