00:10Most people don't think about their kidneys until something goes wrong but some of the
00:15habits that damage your kidneys are things that you do every single day. Your kidneys
00:21play a vital role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, regulating blood pressure and maintaining
00:28overall health. Tonight on Health Call, we're discussing five everyday habits that can damage
00:34your kidneys and what you can do to protect them. Let's start with poorly controlled high blood
00:40pressure. High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. Over time,
00:47high blood pressure damages the small vessels within the kidneys, affecting its ability to filter waste.
00:53Number two, poorly controlled diabetes. High blood sugar can damage your kidneys filter units over
01:01time, making diabetes one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.
01:09Number three, frequent use of painkillers. Most people are surprised to know that use of anti-inflammatory
01:17painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and aproxen can damage your kidneys when done frequently or in
01:25high doses. Number four, eating too much salt. Diets that are high in salt can raise your blood pressure
01:33and place additional strain on your kidneys. Processed foods, canned foods, salty snacks are all
01:41sources of hidden salt. And number five, not drinking enough fluids. While fluid requirements differ from
01:49person to person, chronic dehydration can make it harder for your kidneys to function and it can also
01:56increase your risk of developing kidney stones. It is important to note that the risk of kidney disease is
02:03even higher in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or a family history of kidney problems
02:12or kidney disease. The good news is many cases of kidney disease can be prevented. By managing your blood
02:20sugar and blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting excess salt, staying hydrated and using
02:29medications responsibly, you can keep your kidneys healthy for years to come. Kidney disease often
02:36develops silently but prevention starts with everyday habits. Protecting your kidneys does not require
02:44perfection. It requires small consistent everyday choices that protect your long-term health. It's Dr.
02:52Mariana Brown for TV6 Health School.
Comments