Get Your Zzzs to Protect Your Kidneys

Ever stay up late to watch your favorite shows, browse social media, or skip out on sleep to do something you enjoy? It happens. And probably more than it should, if you know how much sleep you should be getting.

Seriously. The average adult needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night for best health, according to the National Sleep Foundation. But most people sleep less than 7 hours a night on average. Even for a healthy person, lack of sleep can cause kidney problems. And it's even more serious if you have renal disease.

Researchers discussed their findings of sleep deprivation in people who have kidney disease at the American Society of Nephrology conference. And what they found on sleep and kidney disease might keep you awake at night. If you have kidney disease, and you don't get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night, you have a higher risk of developing kidney failure. You need your Zzzs.

If you're not getting enough sleep, you can do something about it. Develop a bedtime routine, and go to bed at the same time every night. Avoid watching TV or using electronics in bed, instead read a book. Avoid drinking caffeine or eating large meals late in the day. Taking a warm bath or shower or doing something relaxing can help too. If you still can't seem to get enough sleep, talk to your doctor.

When you have renal disease, you need to monitor your diet and lifestyle habits to protect the kidney function you have left. When it comes to choosing food to eat, you'll need to limit the amount of sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein in your diet. And that can leave you scratching your head about what you can and can't eat. Fortunately, we've taken the guesswork out of eating healthy when you have renal disease. Just pick your favorites from our Renal-Friendly menu.

Eat. Enjoy. And get your Zzzs.