The Right Diet May Help Prevent Kidney Disease

Poor eating habits, smoking and obesity are associated with increased risk for kidney disease, according to new research published today.
Obese people - those with body mass index (BMI) over 30 -- were twice as likely to develop kidney disease. An unhealthy diet independently impacted risk for chronic kidney disease even after adjusting for weight and other lifestyle-related factors.
Researchers also noted an association between those who currently smoke and the development of chronic kidney disease. Those who smoked were about 60% more likely to develop kidney disease.
Overall, those who developed kidney disease were more likely to be African American, living with diabetes or high blood pressure, have a family history of kidney failure, and consumed more soft drinks, red meat, and fast food than those who did not develop kidney disease. http://www.kidneyhelp.net/Kidney-Diseases/Chronic-Kidney-Disease.html
Risk Reduction Tips from the National Kidney Foundation:
·         Cut the sodium: Americans today consume 50% more than the recommended daily quantity of sodium -- 2,300 mg of sodium, about one teaspoon of salt, should be the daily limit.
·         Reduce red meat: High protein diets, especially those containing large quantities of animal protein, may harm the kidneys. Red meat is also high in saturated fat—another no-no.
·         Stop the soda: Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sodas are high calorie and contain no nutritious value. Colas also have phosphorus additives which can harm the kidneys.
·         Pass on processed foods: Crackers, potato chips, deli meats, cheese spreads, and instant potato mix are all examples of processed foods that are high in sodium and phosphorus additives - both which can have negative effects on the kidneys.
·         Slow down with sugar: An overdose of sugar can lead to diabetes and obesity, which are linked to kidney disease.