Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disease, which means it starts as a mild insufficiency and advances to kidney failure. Some uncontrollable factors, such as genetics, may contribute to CKD worsening; However, there are things you may be doing to worsen your CKD. Learn ten common habits that may harm your kidneys and worsen your CKD.* 

1.  Overusing Pain Medication

Over-the-counter pain medication, specifically NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), may harm your kidneys. Speak to your doctor about other ways to treat your pain and never go over the recommended dosage when taking an NSAID. 

 2.  Abusing the Salt Shaker

Diets high in salt are also high in sodium and may indirectly harm your kidneys. High-salt diets can cause high blood pressure, which is a leading cause of CKD worsening. While you may believe removing the salt from your food will make it tasteless or bland, there are healthy ways to flavor your foods with herbs and spices. 

3.  Eating Too Many Processed Foods

Many processed foods contain additives made of phosphorus, potassium, and/or sodium. For many with CKD, these nutrients need to be limited as they may worsen kidney damage. Try purchasing the majority of foods from the outer perimeter of the grocery store, where fresh meats, dairy, fruits, and vegetables are found. This will help you cut back on processed foods, typically found on the inner aisles.

 4.  Not Drinking Enough Water

During the earlier stages of CKD, it is important to drink enough fluid to help clear the toxins out of your body and prevent kidney stones. For most adults, 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day is ideal. However, in moderate to severe cases of CKD, you may need to limit fluid consumption as your kidneys are unable to remove fluid anymore. 

5.  Missing Out on Sleep

A good night’s sleep is important for your kidney health, as well as your overall health. Kidneys are regulated by the sleep-wake cycle, which helps coordinate the kidneys’ workload over 24 hours.

6.  Eating Too Much Meat

While our society encourages a high protein diet, eating too much protein from animal sources can be harmful. Protein recommendations will vary among CKD stages. CKD patients not on dialysis may be recommended to follow a low protein diet or a plant-based diet, while many dialysis patients will be encouraged to consume a high protein diet.

7.  Eating Too Much Food High in Sugar

Many people with a high-sugar diet struggle with obesity, which is a risk factor for developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and CKD. Save your sweet treats for special occasions and try to limit your daily intake of sugary foods and beverages.

8.  Smoking

In addition to the damage to the lungs and other areas, smoking has been found to increase the risk of protein in the urine – a sign of kidney damage. 

9.  Drinking Excess Alcohol

Regular heavy drinking – more than four drinks a day – may double the risk of developing CKD. Chances are even higher if the excess alcohol consumption is combined with smoking. 

10.  Sitting Still 

Sedentary lifestyles have been linked to the development of CKD. While researchers are unsure of the direct connection, it is known that regular physical activity may improve blood pressure, blood sugars, and chances of developing CKD. 

*10 Common Habits That May Harm Your Kidneys. (2021, February 25). National Kidney Foundation. https://www.kidney.org/content/10-common-habits-that-may-harm-your-kidneys