What and how much you drink can directly influence critical kidney functions. For instance, adequate plain water intake supports glomerular filtration, where blood is filtered in the kidneys, separating water, salts, and other small molecules from the blood into urine. Drinking too much or too little water is linked to worsened outcomes in chronic kidney disease....READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE |
People with healthy kidneys who are frequently dehydrated could still end up with kidney damage and an increased risk of kidney stones. Excessive water intake can cause hyponatremia (low sodium levels), which can be dangerous, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
BREAKING NEWS: “Fornication Is Not A Sin In My Religion” Popular Artist Insisted. See The Face of The Artist Who Said It Here.
Beyond water, drinks containing high levels of sugar or fructose can increase uric acid production and oxidative stress in renal issues. Alcohol, fruit juice, energy drinks, and sports drinks are also ones to watch if you are concerned about your kidney health, reports Surrey Live.
As kidney function declines, regulating fluid levels may become more difficult. Some people with advanced kidney disease may need to limit fluid intake to avoid fluid retention.
Fizzy drinks
Many fizzy drinks contain high levels of fructose, which can harm the kidneys’ filtering abilities if consumed regularly.
The National Kidney Foundation references a study conducted in 2024. The study relied on participants’ self-reported intake to find that drinking more than one serving of sugar-sweetened or artificially sweetened beverages per day increased the risk of kidney disease.
A standard serving size of fizzy drinks, such as cola, is typically around 237ml. However, many products come in larger containers, and a “portion” might be considered larger – a 330ml can of Coca-Cola in the UK is regarded as one serving.
Researchers at Osaka University in Japan studied nearly 8,000 university employees with normal kidney function over three years, dividing them into three groups based on their drinking habits: those who drank one soda per day, those who drank two, and those who abstained from fizzy drinks.
The study revealed that 10% of the group consuming two sodas daily developed an abnormally high level of proteins in their urine, a risk factor for end-stage kidney disease.
Furthermore, regularly consuming sweetened drinks increases the risk of obesity and insulin resistance, both of which are established risk factors for the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Energy drinks
Energy drinks are often consumed for their perceived benefits of increased alertness and stamina.
However, the quick energy boost comes with a cost. High caffeine, added sugars, and artificial vitamins can overwork the kidneys.
The National Kidney Foundation has highlighted research linking a high intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFS) to an elevated risk of kidney disease. Energy drinks “fall into this category because they have a lot of caffeine, added sugar, and additives like phosphorus and sodium,” the NKF points out.
Moreover, caffeine alone can lead to dehydration, which can result in decreased blood flow to the kidneys, particularly if the drink is consumed regularly.Colourful carbonated soft drink pop soda bottles with plastic straws. Plastic bottles of assorted carbonated beverages in a variety of colours.
Alcohol
It’s widely recognised that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, liver disease, and kidney damage.
Regular and heavy consumption of alcohol can dehydrate your body and put extra strain on your kidneys. However, the guidelines for alcohol consumption for those with kidney disease are the same as for the general population: no more than 14 units a week for both men and women.
Kidney Care UK stated: “Because alcoholic drinks come in different strengths and sizes, units are a good way of telling how strong your drink is. It’s not as simple as one drink, one unit.”
According to NHS guidance, 14 units equate to six pints of average-strength beer or 10 small glasses of low-strength wine.
It’s wise to evenly space your alcohol consumption across at least three days if you’re imbibing up to 14 units weekly. Binge drinking just once or twice a week can raise your chances of dying from long-term illnesses and injuries, so moderation is key.
Fruit juices
Fruit juices have their pros and cons for kidney health. Certain juices are beneficial due to their hydrating properties and nutrients; however, others high in sugar and potassium might pose risks, especially those already dealing with kidney issues.
Popular belief recognises 100% juice as a healthier beverage alternative, yet this may not hold for renal patients because of its high potassium content, which can exceed 200 mg per serving. A study on cranberry juice featured in the Journal of Renal Nutrition highlighted the ambiguity fruit juice presents for consumers.
BREAKING NEWS: “Fornication Is Not A Sin In My Religion” Popular Artist Insisted. See The Face of The Artist Who Said It Here.