Why do some people develop kidney disease? In fact, it is closely related to daily habits and lifestyles. In daily life, it is crucial to protect the kidneys. What are the ways to protect the kidneys?
I. Focusing only on kidney tonification and neglecting kidney health
Kidney tonification is a health concept that many people advocate. Many people mistakenly believe that tonifying the kidney is the same as supplementing the kidney. "This is a misconception," the "kidney" referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a functional concept that encompasses the integrated functions of the reproductive system, endocrine system, and urinary system in modern medicine. In contrast, the "kidney" in modern medicine refers to the actual, physical kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for removing toxins, waste products, and excess water from the body. Additionally, they help the body control blood pressure, regulate electrolyte concentrations, and produce red blood cells. Once kidney function is damaged, it is often irreversible.
II. Eating too much meat and excessive protein
Protein is an essential nutrient for the human body, and it is important to prioritize its intake, but this does not mean "the more high-protein food, the better." Healthy individuals can get enough daily protein through a balanced diet. However, many office workers frequently socialize, consuming large amounts of meat and fish, leading to excessive protein intake. Long-term high protein intake increases the burden on the kidneys, potentially keeping them in a constant state of "overload." For those with existing kidney damage, protein intake must be strictly controlled. It is essential to consult a nephrologist and create a meal plan under the guidance of a nutritionist.
Additionally, a reminder: protein is not just limited to eggs and milk. Various meats, seafood, and legumes are also high in protein. When you are keen on consuming high-protein foods or blindly supplementing with high-protein products, be careful not to overwork your kidneys.
III. Drinking traditional Chinese herbal soups daily, high in purines
Some people "cannot have a meal without soup" and love to have a bowl of delicious soup. These soups typically contain a significant amount of meat and are simmered for two to three hours. During long cooking times, a large amount of purine dissolves into the broth. Frequently consuming traditional Chinese herbal soups high in purines can cause uric acid to accumulate in the blood, increasing uric acid levels. This not only easily leads to gout but also damages the kidneys.
Another "kidney-damaging" dietary habit is consuming large amounts of seafood with beer. Certain components in seafood, when combined with beer, can significantly increase uric acid levels in the blood, triggering gout and gouty nephropathy.
IV. Frequently holding in urine and not drinking enough water
Many people often hold in their urine because they are too busy with work. Unknowingly, holding urine for too long can easily lead to increased bladder pressure, disruption of the bladder pressure reflex, and decreased detrusor muscle function. It can also affect the ureter-bladder anti-reflux mechanism, causing urine to back up, which can easily lead to complications like pyelonephritis and kidney damage. Therefore, no matter how busy you are, do not forget to go to the toilet on time.
Furthermore, when work gets busy, many people also neglect to drink enough water. Insufficient water intake naturally leads to reduced urine output, increasing the concentration of waste and toxins in the urine. Kidney stones, a common clinical condition, are closely linked to long-term insufficient water intake. Experts emphasize the importance of developing a habit of drinking more water, ensuring at least 8 large glasses of water daily (Note: do not replace water with beverages). Drinking plenty of water can dilute urine, allowing it to be excreted quickly, which helps prevent kidney stones.
V. A salty diet, making it difficult to expel water
95% of the salt in our diet is metabolized by the kidneys. Eating too salty naturally increases the burden on the kidneys.
Furthermore, the sodium in salt makes it difficult for the body to expel water, further加重 the burden on the kidneys, leading to a decline in kidney function. At the same time, a diet that is too salty can raise blood pressure, preventing normal blood flow to the kidneys and thus inducing kidney disease. It is recommended to keep daily salt intake under 6 grams.
VI. Abusing medication, which can poison the kidneys
David, 20, had a toothache two months ago. He thought it was due to "internal heat" and got some traditional Chinese medicine from a clinic. However, after taking the medicine for a week, he experienced symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and anuria, and was rushed to the hospital by his family.
Later, David was diagnosed with renal failure (uremia), requiring lifelong dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant.