The kidneys have special cells, called glomeruli that work as filters. These filters are responsible for filtering toxins from blood that flows in the capillaries to be excreted in the urine. The kidneys also help retain nutrients that are essential in the bloodstream. Therefore, keeping healthy kidneys is vital for your body detoxification and nourishment.

Things that damage your kidneys

Alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol can cause severe problems to your kidneys and worsen kidney disease. High intake of alcohol alters the functioning of your kidneys making it difficult for the kidneys to filter blood. Alcohol also dehydrates your body, affecting the normal functioning of your cells and organs, which include the kidneys.

Red meat

Red meat is high in protein that causes kidney damage. Protein metabolism gives the kidneys a hard task in eliminating waste products from the body. Animal protein leaves acidic remainders in the body. They also increase chances of you growing urinary stones.

Table salt

To maintain fluid balance, your body needs salt, but excess amounts of sodium can be destructive to your kidneys. When salt is taken in excess, the kidneys struggle to retain water to dilute the salt in your bloodstream to aid proper functioning of your heart.

Caffeine

Caffeine that is found in tea, coffee, soda, and other drinks puts a load on your kidneys. Caffeine being a stimulant, it increases the flow of blood, stressing the kidneys and increasing blood pressure. Taking caffeine on an empty stomach can cause the formation of kidney stones. It also leads to dehydration, which is a contributing factor for kidney stones.

Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are bad for your health, just like refined sugar. Consumption of artificially sweetened diets causes a decline in the functioning of the kidneys.

Dairy products

Dairy products have a similar problem to that of animal proteins. Intake of these products increases calcium excretion in the
urine, which is associated with high risk of developing kidney stones. Kidney function decline can make protein wastes rise to a level that is unsafe for your body.

Eating unhealthy foods regularly increases strain on the kidneys and damages structures within the kidneys. It is beneficial to improve your diet and lifestyle, even if you already have kidney disease. Your nutrition plan and diet depend on the wellness of your kidney function and to what extent your kidneys are impaired. However, some dietary and lifestyle recommendations can help people with kidney disease.