This organ duo filters your blood, produces hormones, eliminates toxins, absorbs minerals, produces urine, neutralizes acids, and more. They play vital roles in several of your body’s major functions and if they’re not properly taken care of, they can develop some serious health concerns in the long run. 

Top 10 Deadly Habits

Damage and the decline of kidney health can go unnoticed for several years. They’re tough and can weather a lot and are even able to function with as little as 20% of their capacity. Just like most things, however, they do have their breaking points. Because of how long your kidneys can holster disease and decline, kidney diseases are often referred to as “The Silent Diseases.” Because of this “silent” nature, people often won’t realize kidney disease effects them until it’s too late.

That’s why it’s important to do what you can NOW to care for them so that you don’t go to the doctor one day and realize that your kidneys are failing. Here are 10 of the top habits that can put a lot of strain on your kidneys and cause them to decline or develop disease overtime:

#1. Not Drinking Enough Water

Some of your kidney’s top functions are filtering blood and eliminating toxins and waste from you body. If you’re frequently dehydrated and aren’t getting enough water, then waste and toxins can start to buildup and cause damage to your kidneys.

#2. Too Much Salt In Your Diet

Salt is an important mineral for your health, but people tend to consume too much salt on a daily basis, which causes blood pressure to raise and ultimately puts a lot of stress on the kidneys. The general recommendation for salt consumption is no more than 5 grams a day.

#3. Frequently Delaying The Call Of Nature

Your kidneys play a major role in producing urine and getting it out of your body. If you often resist the urge to urinate because you’re too busy or occupied by other things, then a lot of pressure gets placed on your kidneys and this can ultimately lead to kidney disease, kidney stones, kidney failure and incontinence. 

#4. Kick The Sugar Habit

The over-consumption of sugar can play a big role in the health and functionality of your kidneys. Studies have shown how people who consume 2 or more sugary drinks a day end up having protein in their urine, which is one of the first indicators that your kidneys aren’t working as they should be.

#5. Vitamin And Mineral Deficiencies

Eating a clean, well-rounded, whole foods diet with lots of fruits and vegetables isn’t just for weight loss, it also ensures that you are getting the proper nutrition fueled into your system. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can end up being the underlying causes for several health concerns. For instance, when it comes to your kidneys, being deficient in vitamin B6 and magnesium (one of today’s top nutrient deficiencies) can increase the risk of kidney stones.