The Routines You Must Abandon To Protect Your Kidneys And Heart

According to research conducted by the National Kidney Foundation, over 90,000 Americans perish annually from kidney-related illnesses. A shocking discovery that exceeds the prevalence of prostate and breast cancer. Keeping our kidneys healthy should be a top priority, as many of us may be unaware of the vital role they play in maintaining our lives. How can this be accomplished, you may wonder. There is no one simple answer, and our genes play a role, but taking care of our daily habits – what we eat, our sleep patterns, and our exercise routines – is essential for preventing kidney damage and maintaining a healthy body. Obviously, we can't ignore heart health, which is crucial to our overall well-being; therefore, continue reading to discover some vital tips that will help you maintain healthy kidneys and a healthy heart, as well as your overall health!

How to Consume Peanuts

According to the National Kidney Foundation, calcium oxalate kidney stones are the most common type of kidney stones worldwide. Peanuts contain a high concentration of oxalate; if you have kidney disease, the more you consume, the more detrimental it may be. If you can completely avoid it, you should do so. There are numerous more suitable snacks, such as popcorn, grapes, and dates. Experiment with healthier snack foods in order to discover your new favorites.

2. Acquiring Knowledge of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

As it pertains to GMOs, researchers are still studying their health benefits and harmful components to determine what you gain from consuming them. However, the majority of processed foods contain these substances and are not the healthiest options. However, there are currently kidney-related health concerns. We may not be able to avoid all foods containing GMOs, but fresh and naturally produced foods are the safest alternatives.

3. Greens Shrink but Nutrient Levels Remain

Many of us are accustomed to the notion that "once it is cooked, it will shrink," but we overlook the fact that the nutrient levels remain constant. Green leafy vegetables, such as Swiss chard, spinach, and beet greens, are generally very healthy due to their rich nutrient content, but they also contain a high amount of potassium. Again, you may consume a small amount but no more than that. It is all about balancing the listed foods!

4. Managing Processed Foods

Daily consumption of processed foods can be detrimental to your kidney health as well as your overall health. The sodium content of processed foods and favorite concentrates, which are also loaded with salt and other harmful substances, is high. The next time you purchase frozen pizza, instant noodles, or even microwavable foods, be aware that you are slowly killing yourself. You actually have sufficient time to prepare meals from scratch!

5. Consuming Tomatoes

Raw or cooked, tomatoes have a high potassium content, and tomato sauce can contain up to 900 mg of potassium. You may choose an alternative, such as roasted red pepper sauce, which has a comparable flavor and taste but is much healthier for your kidneys. Fans of Italian cuisine who are unable to survive a day without a saucy pizza or a rich spaghetti Bolognese will be forced to diversify their diets.

6. Excellent Prospects for Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Potatoes and sweet potatoes are well-known for their high potassium content, as a baked potato of standard size can contain up to 610 mg of potassium and a sweet potato would contain approximately 541 mg. However, there is a glimmer of hope because both types of potatoes can be soaked or leached to reduce the amount of potassium they contain. You can reduce up to 50 percent of the potassium in diced potatoes by boiling them for approximately 10 minutes, while soaking them for at least four to six hours may reduce the levels even further. Nevertheless, you might be able to enjoy that potato pie in moderation.

7. Avoid Olives, Pickles, and Relish If You Could

A great deal of salt is added to these foods prior to consumption in order to impart flavor and "cure" them. This should be avoided if you have kidney-related health problems. In addition, despite the fact that many grocery stores offer "reduced-salt" options, you should not consume them. Your best option is to make your own pickled vegetables using significantly less salt and healthier ingredients. You may discover a new lifelong pastime! Probiotics from fermented foods are essential for our systems.

8. Consume Citrus Fruit Moderately

Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which the body requires, but they are also rich in potassium, which the blood and kidneys do not require. There are approximately 333 mg and 473 mg of potassium in a large orange and its juice, respectively. This may be excessive for those with kidney disease. You can always use grapes, apples, or cranberries along with their juices as a substitute (lower levels of potassium).

9. Attend to Health Screening

Kidney failure is no laughing matter, so the more you know and comprehend about it, the better. It is strongly advised that individuals undergo testing to determine their kidney health. Especially if you or your family members have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or a family history of kidney failure. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the more effectively it can be treated and possibly cured. Eliminate any potential issue.

10. Use Antibiotics with Caution

Antibiotics assist our bodies in combating the onset of bacteria and infections. However, caution must be exercised when using these medications, as they can be detrimental to kidney health. Antibiotics such as penicillin and cephalosporins contain high levels of substances that can cause life-threatening kidney problems. If you are more susceptible to infections due to medications for chronic illness and take more antibiotics than the average person, you should have a serious discussion with your doctor.

11. Being Alert to Strep Throat

Due to this infection, the body will produce antibodies that aid in fighting and eliminating the problem. However, when the body produces excessive amounts, they tend to seep into the kidney's filtering process and cause inflammation. This condition can cause long-term kidney issues, despite the fact that the symptoms are temporary. These subtle symptoms are one of the primary reasons why we fail to recognize the gradual decline of our kidneys.

12. Dairy Is Good & Bad

Milk and other dairy products are known for their positive effects on bone and muscle health, but consuming too much can be harmful. There are a variety of nutrients that can be obtained from dairy products, but it is a fact that they are rich in potassium and phosphorus. The accumulation of these nutrients in the body places stress on the kidney, which must filter and flush the bloodstream. In turn, this will cause the bones to become fragile and prone to breakage and fracture. Additionally, the high fat content of some dairy products may clog arteries and be detrimental to heart health. Alternatives such as almond milk, which are low in these nutrients, may be a better option.

13. Limit Your Bananas

As with many other tropical fruits, bananas contain a high amount of potassium; as a result, it is not advised to consume one per day if you have kidney disease. A medium banana contains approximately 422 mg of potassium, which exceeds the daily limit of 2,000 mg for a single serving. So, limit your intake of bananas! Pineapple is a substantial substitute for your fruit serving because it contains significantly less sugar.

14. Consuming Brown Rice

Like whole-wheat bread, brown rice has bran and entire grains, which are high in potassium. A cup of brown rice contains more than two times as much potassium and phosphorus as the same volume of white rice. You may opt for alternatives such as bulgur, pearled bulgur, couscous, and buckwheat, as they contain significantly less potassium. Brown rice complements all of your favorite rice dishes magnificently.

15. Which Bread Should I Consume?

Most of us have heard that whole wheat bread is a healthier alternative, and we don't disregard medical studies, but people with kidney problems may wish to avoid whole wheat bread. As a result of the high levels of potassium and phosphorus present in bran and whole grains, refined white bread may be a better option than one may expect. For improved heart health, however, choose spelt or rye bread. Don't forget to remember that store-bought loaves contain additional salt/sodium and frequently sugar as well. If you already have health difficulties, you should consult with medical professionals to determine the best course of action.

16. Avoid canned foods whenever possible.

It is crucial to note that these canned goods include a high sodium content (to preserve and prolong shelf life), which might cause serious kidney problems if ingested. Obviously, they may be less expensive and more handy for the time being, but if you can, try dry or even frozen beans. You can drain and rinse canned goods such as beans and tuna for comfort, but this will not eliminate all the sodium.

17. Are Avocados Safe?

Avocados supply the body with a wealth of nutrients, such as fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, which contribute to the fruit's impressive health advantages. Due to the high potassium content of this food, individuals with kidney problems may wish to decrease or eliminate it from their diet. The fewer obstacles your body must overcome, the healthier your kidneys will be.

18. Secondhand Smoking Is Equally Harmful

Numerous individuals have disregarded the notion that secondhand smoking is just as harmful as firsthand smoking. Keep in mind that when someone smokes and exhales up to seventy percent of the smoke, those around them inhale all of it, inhaling dangerous chemicals that are hazardous to our health and raise the risk of heart failure and other chronic illnesses. Imagine inhaling over 7,000 chemicals, of which a substantial proportion are carcinogenic.

19. Electronic cigarettes are not a healthy option.

Many individuals believe that electronic cigarettes are safer than regular cigarettes. In spite of this, numerous studies have demonstrated that both methods of smoking provide the same harmful dangers. Compared to conventional cigarettes, e-cigarettes are considered to increase the risk of heart failure. As of 2019, a number of U.S. states have outlawed the use of e-cigarettes due to the ailments associated with its use.

20. It's Essential to Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth or flossing at least twice a day is not only essential for maintaining good oral hygiene, but also surprisingly advantageous for heart health. The bacteria produced by periodontal disease have the ability to enter the bloodstream and disrupt the operation of the heart. Remember that a bad habit of not flossing or brushing your teeth can lead to a stroke. Aside from life-threatening implications, good oral hygiene will save you a lot of money on future medical and dental expenses.

21. It Is Much More Than Appearance

The doctors have made it plain that body bulk is more important than physical beauty. Many individuals are occasionally content with their physical appearance without considering whether or not their Body Mass Index (BMI) may be the reason of their poor health. A high BMI can lead to heart problems, therefore you should consult with your physician for further information. Also, do not rely on the BMI information found on the Internet, as this criterion encompasses much more than height and weight.

22. Spend Some Time on Yourself

Yes, we are well and have not been afflicted with any small or significant sickness in the recent past or ever. This does not mean that we should neglect our routine checkups and other preventative measures. We should have our blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and other chronic health conditions examined on a regular basis, so that we can treat them before it is too late. Once or twice per year is strongly advised, and our neglect could be our undoing.

23. Trick The "Silent Killer"

Your blood pressure is nearly the leading cause of almost all health issues. Failure to maintain a healthy blood pressure level might lead to hypertensive heart disease (where the heart thickens, and the arteries are narrowed, cutting the proper flow of blood to the heart). Since a long time ago, the American Heart Association has advocated for people to make heart health a top priority. Although you may not be harmed now, you shouldn't ignore it for your future self.

24. Allow Your Legs to Work More Frequently.

Having a desk job can lead to major underlying issues that many individuals are unaware of until it becomes unmanageable, at which point they begin to seek solutions. The more you walk on your legs, the better for your heart's health you will be because it helps regulate blood flow and keeps your muscles strong and flexible. You can help yourself by taking brief walks during water breaks and trips to the restroom, or by parking your car further away than normal so that you must walk to it. More frequently flexing your legs will benefit your heart.

25. Drink More Water

Water facilitates the flexible and effective flow of blood through the veins, as the thicker the blood, the harder the muscles must work to pump it. If you do not consume enough water, your heart will degenerate over time. According to numerous sources, eight or more glasses of water each day is optimal for our bodies. Check out how much the athlete in the image below enjoys his water bottle! This is the emotion you wish to convey.

26. Enjoy Your Social Life

According to scientific study, having a social life helps to keep you relaxed, in excellent shape, and reduces your risk of heart disease. A positive environment with people who make you feel safe, at ease, and confident reduces stress and depression. Therefore, the next time you feel like sleeping in, go to the park or the movies with your family. Even a simple phone call to a friend or family member can do wonders for your mind and body.

27. Perform a Workout Session Daily.

No one stated you must engage in a rigorous workout every day, but a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes of daily activity is ideal for your health. According to medical studies, running or walking will significantly enhance your lifespan. Do you have stairs at your business or residence? Attempt to use them instead of the elevator several times every day. Numerous scientific investigations on the advantages of walking have yielded a tremendous number of discoveries.

28. Do not watch the entire series in a single sitting!

This television series may be so captivating that you feel compelled to watch it all night, preventing you from sleeping or delaying your responsibilities so you may remain glued to the screen. Based on study conducted with an average of 70,000 women, the final results were mixed, with the majority reducing their risk of heart attack by approximately 92%. At the beginning of the study, several of these ladies suffered from diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. But how did they significantly improve their health? They lowered their weekly television viewing to seven hours while increasing their physical activity. The more television you watch, the less you exercise and the more unhealthy snacks you consume.

29. Eat More Fruits And Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are an excellent starting point for improving heart and overall health. Though there may not be a required group of fruits, the more fruits you consume (in moderation) the better for your body and brain. Five servings per day are beneficial for the heart, while ten servings may cut illness risk by as much as 28 percent. That's a lot of fruit, but happily it's tasty!

30. Concentrated Breathing For 10 To 15 Minutes Each Day

To maintain a low heart rate and steady blood pressure, it may be necessary to practice meditation. Stress can be dreadful if it lasts for several hours or days. This can have severe repercussions for your health, as each time your muscles contract, your breathing becomes shallower, and your heart rate increases, you set yourself up for critical difficulties. Many of us experience moderate stress and worry on a daily basis, but when it becomes chronic (even in the absence of heart disease), you are prone to develop fatal health complications. Take some time each day to simply breathe!

31. Get at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night

Contrary to what many motivational speakers and successful individuals say about not sleeping enough, lack of sleep can affect your body and prevent you from living healthy enough to achieve success. Medical studies have demonstrated that obtaining an average of seven to eight hours of sleep per night will lessen the strain on the heart and, in turn, raise your likelihood of avoiding disease. Sleep enables the body to manufacture healthful substances that reduce the heart rate and blood pressure.

31. Instead, indulge in Healthy Fats

So many of us are terrified of fats in our meals because we have been told that fat is harmful to our health, but many of us are ignorant that the body requires healthy fats to function properly. Among these are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, therefore examine the labels of products for their presence. The fat that should be avoided the most is trans-fat, as it can increase the risk of acquiring diseases by up to twenty-one percent. And remember that any type of fat, or food for that matter, should be consumed in proportion.

32. Be Cautious Regarding These Medical Scans

Numerous individuals refuse to undergo medical scans and examinations due to the accompanying discomfort and probable negative effects. Similar to MRIs, other scans utilize a dye on the body to obtain the necessary medical information. However, this dye can cause Contrast-Induced Nephropathy (CIN), a condition in which the kidneys fail for at least three days. Even though this sickness is reversible and exceedingly rare, it can still be fatal and dangerous to your health.

33. Watch Those Mollusks!

We have heard innumerable times that seafood has numerous health benefits that our bodies could definitely use. Nonetheless, it must be consumed in moderation. Shellfish contain a toxin known as domoic acid, and excessive consumption can result in "Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning." Unless you live in a coastal fishing village, you should be able to reduce your intake of prawns, shrimp, and crabs with relative ease. Choose seafood such as hake, sole, and tuna.

34. Reduce Your Coffee Consumption

A daily cup of coffee is not so awful; in fact, some study suggests it may even be beneficial, but when it becomes several cups per day, every day, you are seriously harming yourself. The overabundance of caffeine in the body raises blood pressure and forces the kidneys to overwork as a result of imbalance and instability. According to research conducted by the National Kidney Foundation, it is OK to have two to four cups of coffee each day, but it is important to limit sugary and fatty additives such as creamers, sugar, and flavored syrup. The less you consume, the greater your body's affection will be.

35. Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly

Blood pressure is commonly referred to as the "silent killer" because it does not exhibit "specific" symptoms or signals when something is wrong. As a result, it is advisable to have your blood pressure tested regularly and, if necessary, to work on its stability (as stipulated by the American Heart Association). If your blood pressure rises, it will place a burden on the kidney's ability to control the blood, which can result in renal failure and other life-threatening conditions.

36. Keep an Eye on Your Heartburn Medication

Although certain drugs for heartburn can be taken daily, others should be avoided at all costs. Some study indicates that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are not as safe as previously thought since the component that aids in reducing acid reflux damages the kidneys. However, heartburn drugs such as H2 Blockers are less likely to affect your kidneys and are an excellent alternative. Prior to making the transfer, you should consult with your health care providers.

37. Work for Your Muscles and Avoid Enhancers

Many individuals have turned to body enhancers in lieu of working out to achieve their desired muscularity. These stimulants, including steroids, are detrimental to your internal health, particularly your kidneys. According to medical sources, more than 90 percent of bodybuilders have been impacted in some manner by these medications, and only after cessation can their bodies recover to a healthy state. These medicines also promote edema in the body and increase cholesterol levels, which are hazardous to the health of your kidneys.

38. Consume Alcohol Moderately

Some of us have heard that a small amount of alcohol or wine is not harmful and may even be beneficial to our health in multiple ways. However, this should not be interpreted as an order to drink more than the body requires. The fewer toxic chemicals we consume, the less work our kidneys must undertake to purge the blood of these toxins. Make your toasts meaningful and be sure to stop drinking well before you feel intoxicated.

39. Reduce your consumption of artificial sweeteners.

As a result of those attempting to minimize their sugar intake, there has been a recent surge in the number of individuals substituting artificial sweeteners for sugar. However, these replacements do our bodies no good, as they have been shown to harm your kidneys both directly and indirectly. Two or fewer artificially sweetened ingredients per day may not be as harmful, but honey or Stevia are preferable alternatives.

40. Cut The Sugar Intake

Sugar is beneficial to the body in its own way, but only when ingested in tiny amounts, and this is especially true of naturally occurring sugar, such as that found in fruit, as opposed to refined white sugar. When there is much sugar in the blood, the kidneys are forced into overdrive. Some people with sugar-related diseases, such as diabetes, have a significant chance of getting kidney disease, according to studies. Help yourself by making the essential dietary adjustments.

41. Stress Is Detrimental

Stress over that circumstance not only raises our blood pressure and gives us headaches, but also has further physiological effects. Dietary changes and insufficient rest are stress-related side effects that have the potential to throw our bodies out of balance. Our kidneys will perform more efficiently if we maintain a constant state of relaxation, so the next time you experience stress, try taking a stroll, a break, or even a sip of water to clear your mind.

42. Eat in Moderation

During the festive and holiday seasons, people tend to forget that they should consume food in moderation. Too much food in the body at once increases the workload of the kidneys, which must filter through a great deal of food at once. In addition, excessive protein, fat, and carbohydrates create stress on the kidneys since they are more difficult to break down in the body. It is safest to take a tiny portion of each plate throughout the holidays.

43. Butter vs Margarine - Which Is Healthier?

Some consumers have recently advocated for margarine to replace butter on the grounds that it may be a healthier alternative. However, while having different ingredients, they are both unhealthy if consumed in excess, as the fat in both will elevate your cholesterol and cause kidney damage. However, the less processed form, butter, is probably less harmful... in moderation! It may take some time to adjust to eating your favorite foods with minimal or no butter, but this change is vital.

44. More frequently engage in physical activity

Moving around may be healthier for your kidneys than sitting for long periods of time. Approximately one hour of physical activity per day will help to normalize blood flow and relieve pressure on the kidneys. Take frequent breaks from your desk work to visit the restroom or grab a drink of water. You might also replace your traditional workstation with a standing desk, like the one the woman in the image below is using.

45. Reduce Your Intake of Red Meats

Many of us enjoy eating meat, but are we aware of how unhealthy it may be? Consuming red meat occasionally is acceptable, but excessive consumption has been shown to be hazardous. According to data from the American Society of Nephrology, red meat contains toxic substances that can be harmful to the kidneys, thus one should be cautious when consuming it. If red meat is substituted with a plant-based protein at least once per week, kidney failures can be reduced by an average of 62%.

46. Stay Hydrated With Additional Water

Instead of drinking juice the next time you're thirsty, switch to water. Keeping in mind that the kidneys' function is to filter water from the body, the more hydrated you are, the better the kidneys function. If you do not drink enough water, your urine will include a larger concentration of minerals, which will crystallize the inner layers of your kidneys and cause the formation of kidney stones. There are no "set guidelines" regarding water consumption, but medical professionals have determined that 9 cups for women and 13 cups for males is about right.

47. Avoid drinking energy drinks.

It is strongly encouraged to use energy drinks in moderation on a regular basis. These beverages' high concentrations of caffeine, taurine, and sugar put the body on the verge of overwork and stress. Scientists from throughout the world continue to advocate for the regulation of these beverages' components, especially because renal failures are on the rise globally, particularly among younger children, due to their increased usage. In addition, if you do not know if you already have a renal issue, these beverages could be akin to a death wish.

48. Do Not Exert Yourself Excessively

Exercising is a terrific way to live a long and healthy life, but excessive exercise can be hazardous to your health. There is no need to travel for hours each day, as doing so is physically taxing. When an athlete sustains an injury during training, the body generates kidney-damaging enzymes. This problem is known as Rhabdomyolysis, and although it is a rare ailment, it occurs most frequently in those who begin exercising without understanding their body's limits. Slowly build your muscles, and if you feel fatigued, take a pause to let your body to recover from the great strain it is experiencing.

49. Consider Your Internal Health When Exercising

Numerous individuals exercise solely to lose weight and improve their physical appearance. According to the National Kidney Foundation, however, our internal health also benefits from regular exercise, as our muscular functions improve, our sleeping patterns improve, and our blood pressure is stabilized, and research indicates that even 150 minutes of gentle activity per week is sufficient. All of these benefits support your internal health, notably your kidneys, so that they can function optimally.

50. Recognize Your Supplements

Supplements can be beneficial, and many of us utilize them sometimes or daily. But have we ever taken the time to investigate precisely what we are consuming and the proper quantity, especially when taken in conjunction with other medications? For example, small amounts of cranberry and vitamin C are beneficial to the body, but excessive amounts might cause kidney stones. In addition to willow bark, licorice, wormwood oil, geranium, and turmeric, other supplements that might be harmful to the kidneys include willow bark, licorice, geranium, and even turmeric. Again, this does not imply that these chemicals are dangerous to your kidneys; nonetheless, you should ensure that you are taking the correct dosage and that there is no interaction with other drugs you are taking.

51. Completely Consume Prescribed Medications

Many of us have the horrible habit of discontinuing medication before completing the entire course of treatment because we feel so much better. Avoid being tempted! Your prescribed medication helps to regulate your body (for instance, blood pressure medication), and as routine is generally good for the body, changing the method of your prescription and taking them haphazardly will throw your kidneys off-balance and confuse your body's normal flow, which can be detrimental to those organs.

52. Sleep For Longer

Your kidneys will be in good condition if you get enough sleep, as the longer you stay awake, the longer your kidneys live as well. Research conducted at the University of Chicago revealed that people who slept less than seven hours each night had an elevated risk of renal failure by 19 percent compared to those who slept longer. A lack of sleep or rest places excessive load on the kidneys, which can eventually lead to failure.

53. Refuse The Bubbles

Soda provides our bodies with little nutritional value and an excessive amount of sugar that we could do without. One 12-ounce beverage contains as much sugar as two or more donuts, which will place a tremendous pressure on your kidneys' ability to operate. Numerous studies have demonstrated that consuming two or more sodas per day increases the risk of lasting kidney damage by as much as twofold, due to the sugar and phosphoric acid they contain.

54. Opt For Whole, Unprocessed Foods

The majority of the labeling on processed foods might make them appear to be a healthy option, while concealing the truth. Salt, potassium, and phosphorus are included in processed foods in considerably greater levels than the body requires. Due to the fact that your kidneys filter out the minimal amount of these substances that your body requires, the excess levels will place them under extreme strain. Choose meals that are fresher and more naturally made; your body will appreciate it later.

55. How to Consume Dates, Raisins, and Prunes

If you already have kidney problems, you should avoid these fruits if at all possible. Prunes, raisins, and dates are quite high in potassium, with a cup of prunes containing 1,274 mg or more of potassium. This is a large number, therefore an alternative such as plums may serve you better. These are a better snack than anything processed and sugary if you do not have kidney problems.

56. Exclude Dried Apricots from Your Diet

Although many are aware that apricots are rich in vitamin A and C as well as fiber, few are aware of their high potassium content. This is quite detrimental to your renal health. A cup of dried apricots contains around 1,500 milligrams of potassium, which is 75 percent of the recommended daily allowance. Exclude it from your menu, or consume it just sometimes.

57. Quit Smoking

Whether you smoke once a week, once a month, or once a year, many of us are aware that smoking is unhealthy for the body. The dangers of smoking to the lungs and heart have received a great deal of attention, but the dangers to the kidneys have received less attention. Creatinine, which is normally expelled in the urine, is created in the body when a person smokes. Creatinine then makes its way to the kidneys and negatively affects them. Reports indicate that both former and current smokers suffer kidney problems as a result of this hazardous behavior, however quitting reduces the risk!

58. Relieve Yourself Whenever You have a need to

Many of us have the unfortunate tendency of holding in our urine, particularly when we don't want to stop what we're doing. But are you aware that this is one of the most inhumane things you could do to your body? Remember that urine is a basis of trash and harmful bacteria that increases the longer it remains in the body; the germs will eventually reach your kidneys, which is where the actual troubles occur. The next time you have the want to travel, be certain to do so.

59. Consider a "regular" cold a threat

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the average person suffers from a cold two or three times per year, but brushes it off as an annoying nasal problem. However, you may be inflicting more damage than you realize to your body's long-term health. If a cold is left untreated, the body will produce an excessive amount of antibodies, which are a risk factor for kidney disease. It may not occur immediately, but the more these antibodies are nourished and maintained, the faster your kidneys degrade.

57. Use Fewer Painkillers

We all have the unfortunate habit of taking painkillers at the first sign of discomfort, but are we aware of the inherent risks? Occasional use of a painkiller is acceptable, but excessive use places a strain on the kidneys, as the active ingredients in these medications restrict blood flow to the organ. According to a research published in the New England Journal of Medicine, overdose on painkillers such as Tylenol and Advil causes an average of at least 5,000 cases of renal failure every year in the United States. Painkillers are not inherently harmful; however, they should be taken sparingly and in moderation, and if you are taking other medications, it is essential to examine their compatibility with even the mildest painkillers.

58. Use herbs more than salt

Many people may not realize that salt consumption is one of the leading causes of poor health. Obviously, salt imparts flavor to food, but it also increases the strain on the kidneys, which are responsible for removing excess water from the body. The excessive salt might compromise the health of the entire body by affecting blood circulation. Therefore, authorities, such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), advise limiting daily use to no more than one teaspoon.