11 Doctor-Approved Ways to Protect Your Kidneys Before It’s Too Late

9. Be Mindful with Medications

Medications play a vital role in many wellness journeys—but some common drugs aren’t so gentle on your kidneys. Ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil, Aleve and other over-the-counter pain relievers (known as NSAIDs) can strain your kidneys, especially if used often or in high doses. Some prescription drugs, antacids, or herbal supplements may also cause trouble for sensitive kidneys. If pain sticks around, chat with your doctor before reaching for the medicine bottle routinely. Never stop or change prescribed medications without medical advice, but do keep an updated list of everything you take and share it during appointments. If you need regular pain relief, ask about options that place less stress on your kidneys. Respecting both the power and the risk of medicine allows you to make wiser choices for your body. Your pharmacist is another ally, ready to help you find what works best for your needs and history.

10. Give Your Kidneys a Break from Smoking & Excess Alcohol

Smoking and heavy drinking quietly wear out your kidneys over time—another reason to be gentle with yourself as you navigate these choices. Smoking narrows blood vessels, limiting crucial kidney blood flow and speeding up existing damage. Alcohol, especially in larger amounts, can trigger dehydration and raise blood pressure, compounding the risk. If you smoke or drink, approach change at your own pace, knowing that every step is progress, not judgment. For some, cutting back on one drink or using nicotine patches is the right fit; for others, seeking support from friends, family, or a coach makes all the difference. There’s no finish line—just opportunities to support your body in different ways each day. Let go of any shame about old habits; you’re building new ones that honor all you’ve learned and all that lies ahead.