Six Types Of Food That Can Damage Your Kidney

Our kidneys is a very special component of our body because it helps filter waste and toxins from our blood, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones. Therefore, it's essential that we take care of them and avoid foods that could potentially damage them.

So, what foods should we avoid to keep our kidneys healthy? Here are some surprising culprits:

1. Processed and canned foods
   We all love the convenience of processed and canned foods, but they are loaded with sodium, which can cause high blood pressure and put a strain on our kidneys. These foods also contain preservatives and other additives that can be harmful to our kidneys in the long run.
2. Red and processed meats
   Meat lovers, beware! Red and processed meats are high in protein and can increase the workload on our kidneys. Additionally, these meats contain high levels of phosphorus, which can be challenging for our kidneys to handle, especially for those with kidney disease.
3. Fatty foods
   Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods, fast food, and pastries, can increase the risk of kidney disease. These fats can trigger inflammation and contribute to the buildup of cholesterol in our arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the kidneys and potential damage.
4. Sugar and sugary drinks
   Excessive sugar consumption can lead to conditions like obesity and diabetes, which are risk factors for kidney disease. Sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks are also high in calories and can contribute to weight gain, putting a strain on our kidneys.
5. Salt
   We all know that too much salt is not good for our health, but did you know that it can also negatively impact our kidneys? Salt can increase blood pressure, which in turn can damage the blood vessels in our kidneys. The recommended daily intake of sodium is no more than 2,300 milligrams, but most of us consume much more than that.
6. Artificial sweeteners
   While they may seem like a healthier alternative to sugar, artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can do more harm than good, especially for our kidneys. These sweeteners contain chemicals that can cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys over time.