The kidneys are vital organs in the human body, performing numerous functions that keep us healthy, such as filtering blood, removing toxins and waste from the bloodstream, maintaining fluid balance, and regulating electrolytes.
When the kidneys don’t function properly, fluid balance is disrupted, and toxins accumulate in the body, negatively impacting overall health. Chronic kidney disease can result from various causes, including high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, a high-salt diet, or injury.
If you suffer from chronic kidney failure, dialysis may become necessary (Illustrative image: N.P).
Early Warning Signs of Kidney Disease
Here are some abnormal symptoms that may indicate early-stage kidney problems:
Swelling
According to doctors at Nguyễn Tri Phương Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City), swelling refers to the puffiness and weight gain caused by fluid retention in the body, which can be a sign of kidney failure.
Reduced Urination
If you urinate significantly less than usual—only 1-2 times per day—you should visit a hospital for a kidney checkup.
Chronic Fatigue
Feeling constantly sluggish, tired, or fatigued without a clear reason could also signal kidney issues.
Loss of Appetite
Many people experiencing persistent nausea and loss of appetite often assume it’s a minor digestive issue. However, these symptoms can also indicate kidney problems.
Cognitive Impairment
If you’re struggling with concentration, memory loss, or mood swings, consider having your kidneys checked, as kidney failure can affect brain function.
High Blood Pressure
A sudden spike in blood pressure may also warrant a kidney check, as kidney disease can impact blood flow.
Heart Palpitations
Kidney failure can lead to potassium buildup in the body, causing irregular heartbeats and palpitations.
Foods That Harm Your Kidneys to Avoid
To protect this essential organ, avoid the following foods:
Eating excessive red meat can harm your kidneys (Illustrative image: N.P).
Excessive Protein: According to WebMD, if your kidneys aren’t functioning well, consuming too much protein can overwork them. Consult your doctor about adjusting your protein intake. Eggs, fish, beans, and nuts are good protein sources.
Salt: For some people, excessive salt can raise blood pressure and accelerate kidney damage. It may also lead to kidney stones, causing nausea, severe pain, and difficulty urinating.
Smoking: Smoking not only worsens high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes—the two leading causes of kidney disease—but also interferes with medications used to treat them. It slows blood flow to the kidneys and can worsen existing kidney conditions.
Alcohol: Chronic alcohol abuse increases the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Sugary Drinks: Drinking two or more cans of soda daily raises the risk of kidney disease. In one study, women who consumed soda had 30% poorer kidney function after 20 years compared to others. Sugary beverages, including fruit juices and soft drinks, are linked to higher rates of kidney disease.
Dehydration: Your kidneys need water to function properly. Not drinking enough water—especially if it happens regularly—can harm your kidneys. A light yellow urine color indicates adequate hydration.
Overexercising: Excessive workouts over prolonged periods can cause rhabdomyolysis, a condition where damaged muscle tissue breaks down rapidly, releasing substances into the bloodstream that harm the kidneys.
To protect your kidneys, maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise benefits your waistline and reduces the risk of chronic kidney disease. It also lowers blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health, both crucial for preventing kidney damage.
Additionally, stay hydrated. Drinking water consistently supports kidney health by flushing out sodium and toxins. Aim for at least 1.5 to 2 liters daily, adjusting based on factors like climate, exercise, gender, overall health, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Individuals with a history of kidney stones should drink slightly more water to prevent future stone formation.
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