Some 26 million Americans suffer from chronic kidney disease. This serious condition can lead to a heart attack or require a kidney transplant. But many don’t realize they’re at risk.
Now a new study reveals that a common—but dangerous—nutrient combination can silently kill your kidneys…
The study looked at urine samples from almost 4,000 people with chronic kidney disease (CKD).1 Researchers found having high levels of these two nutrients were associated with fast rates of kidney disease progression. CKD leads to kidney failure. With it comes an increased risk of numerous—and potentially fatal—health issues… Like heart disease.
Potassium is the first nutrient.
To avoid excess potassium, simply don’t get your potassium from supplements. Some athletes take it to replenish what’s lost in their sweat. And people who are on diuretics take it to replace potassium lost in their urine. But most people don’t need a supplemental dose.
Instead, get your potassium from food sources such as avocados, broccoli, and zucchini.
By eating healthy fruits and vegetables, you’ll get the right amount of potassium without overdoing it.
Now comes the hard part…
Sodium is the other half of the combination. It’s almost everywhere in our food supply. Packaged and processed foods—including “diet” frozen entrees—are full of sodium. So is most of the food served at nearly all the big chain restaurants. Even the ones that claim to have “healthier” or “low-fat” options…
Many of these dangerous sodium-packed foods feature packaging and advertising that lead people to think they’re healthy. Yet they have as much—or even more—sodium as their high-fat counterparts.
That’s why it’s crucial to read ingredient labels closely to check the sodium content. But not all salt is the enemy…
It’s fine to add a little sea salt to your steak or salmon. It’s full of trace minerals in the proper balance your body needs to function properly. The hidden refined salt in packaged and restaurant foods is what destroys your kidneys.
Keeping watch on your sodium and potassium intakes isn’t the only way to protect your kidneys…
One of the easiest ways to boost kidney health is to get active. Something as simple as a quick walk around the block can help. Eating a paleo-style diet—and cutting back on grains—can also shield your kidneys from damage.
What are you doing to keep your kidneys healthy? Let us know in the comments, below.
In Good Health,
Angela Salerno
Publisher, INH Health Watch
Like this Article? Forward this article here or Share on Facebook.
References:
1http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/09/150918080614.htm