These popular everyday drinks are slowly killing your kidneys, experts warn
Drinks that can harm your kidneys (photo: Freepik)
Regular consumption of dark sodas may negatively affect kidney health. EatingWell explains what to replace them with in your diet.
Why are these drinks harmful
The kidneys are paired organs that play a central role in hydration and electrolyte balance. Many lifestyle factors, including diet, are important for maintaining healthy kidney function.
Dark sugar-sweetened sodas, such as Coca-Cola, may do more harm than good. Here are the main risks.
They contain phosphoric acid
Melanie Betz, MS, a registered dietitian, explained that some foods naturally contain phosphorus, while others have it added during processing. Phosphoric acid, derived from phosphorus, is found in many dark sodas.
Excess intake can be concerning for people with impaired kidney function. This additive is used for flavor and acts as a preservative and stabilizer to maintain the color and taste of cola over time.
In people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), excess phosphorus can build up in the blood when the kidneys can no longer remove it effectively. Over time, this may contribute to disease progression, mineral and bone disorders, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
They contain added sugar
According to research published in Frontiers in Nutrition, many dark sodas contain added sugar in amounts that significantly exceed the recommended daily limit — especially if you drink more than one soda per day.
High intake of added sugar, particularly from sweetened beverages, is associated with a higher risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. All of these are risk factors for chronic kidney disease.
They may affect overall hydration
Hydration levels influence overall kidney function. Dehydration can contribute to kidney damage, so it is important to drink enough fluids.
Sweetened beverages can be consumed occasionally, but priority should be given to drinks with little or no added sugar.
Healthier alternatives
Water. Supports waste filtration, helps prevent kidney stones, and naturally regulates sodium balance.
Sparkling or infused water. Adding lemon, lime, cucumber, or herbs is a great way to enhance flavor without sugar.
Fruit juice without added sugar. Homemade juice without sugar can provide vitamins and minerals.
Cow’s milk. Often underestimated as a hydrating beverage, milk may benefit kidney health. If you do not have kidney disease, milk can also help lower the risk of kidney stones.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
