How Common Are Kidney Stones
Each year, more than half a million people go to emergency rooms for kidney stone problems. It is estimated that one in ten people will have a kidney stone at some time in their lives.
The prevalence of kidney stones in the United States increased from 3.8% in the late 1970s to 8.8% in the late 2000s. The prevalence of kidney stones was 10% during 20132014. The risk of kidney stones is about 11% in men and 9% in women. Other diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity may increase the risk for kidney stones.
Types Of Food That Can Lead To Kidney Stones
According to a publication in Clinical Nutrition Research, dietary assessment plays a very important role in both the prevention and treatment of kidney stones.
Together with a physician or nutritionist, its important to evaluate the dietary intake of calcium, oxalates, sodium, proteins, and other foods that may be promoting the formation of these stones.
However, since prevention is better, we want to share some of the foods that have been identified as possible triggers of kidney stones. You should try to avoid these foods or consume them with caution, especially if youre prone to kidney stones.
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Top 5 Healthy Drinks For People With Kidney Disease
Many of us love reaching for a refreshing, ice cold drink on a hot summer day, or cozying up with a warm beverage during the dead of winter. But did you know that the drinks you choose to quench your thirst can have a tremendous impact on your kidney health?
As a nephrologist and Kidney Kitchen® contributor, drink-related questions are some of the most common questions I get. Whether you need to watch out for certain nutrients or have fluid restrictions that you need to stick to, there are ways to enjoy healthy drinks for your kidneys. Remember: each person with kidney disease should stick to the food and fluid plan you discussed with your doctor and dietitian, as it addresses your specific kidney function, fluid needs and electrolyte imbalances . Here are five of my favorite drinks that are generally healthy for people with kidney disease:
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Assessment Of The Outcome And Covariates
The main outcome of interest for the present study was 1-year changes in kidney function, assessed by changes in eGFR estimated indirectly from serum creatinine using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation for Caucasian individuals. SCr levels were determined by the enzymatic creatinine assay method . The secondary outcome was a rapid decline of kidney function, defined as 1-year eGFR decline rate> 3 mL/min/1.73 m2. This threshold represents a magnitude of change that is 3 times the decline rate imposed by natural ageing.
Coffee Consumption Link To Reduced Risk Of Acute Kidney Injury Study Finds
- Date:
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Summary:
- If you need another reason to start the day drinking a cup of joe, a recent study has revealed that consuming at least one cup of coffee a day may reduce the risk of acute kidney injury when compared to those who do not drink coffee.
If you need another reason to start the day drinking a cup of joe, a recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers has revealed that consuming at least one cup of coffee a day may reduce the risk of acute kidney injury when compared to those who do not drink coffee.
The findings, published May 5 in the journal Kidney International Reports, show that those who drank any quantity of coffee every day had a 15% lower risk of AKI, with the largest reductions observed in the group that drank two to three cups a day .
“We already know that drinking coffee on a regular basis has been associated with the prevention of chronic and degenerative diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and liver disease,” says study corresponding author Chirag Parikh, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Division of Nephrology and professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “We can now add a possible reduction in AKI risk to the growing list of health benefits for caffeine.”
More studies are needed, Parikh says, to define the possible protective mechanisms of coffee consumption for kidneys, especially at the cellular level.
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Coffee Depletes The Body Of A Number Of Important Minerals
The caffeine in coffee contributes to the increased excretion of calcium from the body. This is particularly pertinent when it comes to people with CKD as they are already at an increased risk of mineral and bone disorders because abnormal hormone levels cause an imbalance between calcium and phosphorus levels with higher phosphorus and lower calcium. Phosphorus and calcium keep each other in balance in the body so having higher calcium levels can help to reduce phosphorus.
Coffee also negatively affects the bodys absorption of iron. People with CKD are already at an increased risk of iron deficiency and anaemia so maintaining adequate iron levels is extremely important.
Coffee also depletes magnesium magnesium is a crucial mineral that aids in energy production as well as plays a key role in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Low magnesium in people with CKD is associated with a more rapid decline in eGFR.
What Are Signs Of Bad Kidneys
Signs of Kidney Disease Youre more tired, have less energy or are having trouble concentrating. Youre having trouble sleeping. You have dry and itchy skin. You feel the need to urinate more often. You see blood in your urine. Your urine is foamy. Youre experiencing persistent puffiness around your eyes.
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Mixed Causes Of Calcium Stones
Often, the cause of calcium stones is not known and is referred to as idiopathic nephrolithiasis. Research suggests that nearly all stones result from problems in the breakdown and absorption of calcium and oxalate. Genetic factors may play a role in about one-half of these cases. Many medical conditions and drugs can also affect digestion and intestinal absorption.
Excess Calcium in the Urine
Hypercalciuria is a condition in which there is too much calcium in the urine. It is responsible for as many as 70% of calcium-containing stones. A number of conditions may produce hypercalciuria. Many are due to genetic factors, but most cases are due to unknown causes .
The following can lead to hypercalciuria and calcium stones:
- Too much calcium absorbed by the intestines. This is usually caused by genetic factors.
- High intake of calcium, often in the form of supplements taken beyond recommended levels.
- Renal calcium leak. In this condition, the kidney does not regulate minerals normally, causing an increase of calcium in the urine.
- Increase in levels of 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D or in the activity of the vitamin D receptor.
- Excessive sodium. High urinary levels of sodium result in increased levels of calcium. Certain defects in the kidney tubules transport system cause imbalances in sodium and phosphate, which can lead to high calcium levels in the urine. A high-salt diet can also produce this effect.
- High intake of refined carbohydrates.
- Excessive caffeine or alcohol intake.
How Can I Boost My Energy With Kidney Disease
Its understandable. We all want a little boost from time to time. Maybe youre dealing with the midday slump. Maybe you arent sleeping well. Or perhaps you just want a bit of extra energy before a long drive or a big presentation.
There are simple, and healthier, steps you can take instead of consuming an energy drink.
- Go for a walk to get your blood flowing and your oxygen levels up.
- Deep breathing. It calms your nervous system and increases oxygenation.
- Drink some coffee. Coffee has caffeine, but it has MUCH less than the average energy drink and when consumed black or with a healthy milk alternative, it doesnt come with the other harmful ingredients.
- Have a healthy snack. Eat some berries or a handful of nuts. The vitamins and minerals help promote energy levels.
- And over time simple things like good sleep habits, stress reduction, exercise, and a healthy diet will help improve your day-to-day energy levels. You wont need an energy drink to pick you up.
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You can also talk to your doctor about preventive medications that can help you dissolve kidney stones. And the type of medication that your doctor will prescribe will be based on the type of kidney stone you have. Alongside, it is crucial to follow effective strategies which can prevent the formation of new stones.
So the bottom line is kidney stones are common! Preventive methods may reduce the risk. Stay hydrated and make some dietary changes. If you have any condition that may increase the risk of kidney stones then talk to your doctor about it!
Does Drinking Too Much Coffee Cause Kidney Stones
Simply put, no. As long as you stay hydrated, studies suggest that coffee may actually decrease the risk of kidney stones.
The amount of water you need to stay hydrated differs for everyone, so ask your healthcare provider if you arent sure. It depends on your size, activity level, climate, and other medical conditions.
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Mayo Clinic Q And A: Reducing Your Risk Of Kidney Stones
Dear Mayo Clinic: My father has a history of kidney stones. He has changed his diet in the past year, which seemed to help. Iâm concerned though, since I had heard kidney stones can increase during the summer. Is this true? If so, are there any tips for how he can further reduce his risk?
Answer: As temperatures rise during the summer months, so does the risk of developing kidney stones, even if you have never had one before. There are several reasons why there is a rise in kidney stones during the summer months. Among these reasons are an increase in outdoor activities, and the amount and types of food and drink we consume.
Research shows that as the weather warms up, people spend more time outdoors, doing yardwork, spending time at the pool or around a barbeque. And often the body is not getting the type of fluids it needs while losing more than normal via the skin.
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They develop when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances, such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid, than the fluid in your urine can dilute.
There are several causes for kidney stones, including diet, which can play a significant role in the formation of kidney stones. A family or personal history of kidney stones raises your risk, as do certain medications and medical conditions.
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Is Energy Drink Consumption Bad For Your Kidneys
Lets talk about the effects of energy drinks. They contain B vitamins, caffeine content, taurine , and some herbs like ginseng. Many of them are high in sugar too, which can be a problem.
Its been shown that the high caffeine in energy drinks can cause blood pressure to increase. High blood pressure causes damage to your kidneys and further reduces their ability to filter. Caffeine is also a diuretic and increased intake will make you go to the bathroom more often. This diuretic effect directly impacts your hydration and kidney function. And while Taurine has protective benefits, high levels of Taurine can cause kidney damage.
Its also not uncommon for people with Type II Diabetes to have kidney damage or kidney failure. So, the high levels of added sugars in most energy drinks can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to worsening kidney health over time.
Additionally, energy drinks can be high in potassium and phosphorus. People on a renal diet are instructed to limit levels of these nutrients as they progress towards ESRD.
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Phosphoric Acid In Soda
Cola, specifically, has a lot of phosphoric acid in it. Other kinds of sodas usually do not have phosphoric acid.
In addition to sugar, phosphoric acid may be why soda can cause kidney stones.
Some studies have shown a higher risk of kidney stones, and harmful changes in urine in people who drink cola . However, others have shown a modest reduced risk.
Some articles have suggested that phosphoric acid dissolves kidney stones. This is not true. No food or supplement can dissolve kidney stones. However, nutrition can play an big role in prevention!
Bottom Line: Because phosphoric acid is harmful for people with kidney disease, this indicates it generally is not good for kidneys. I would steer clear of dark sodas for kidney stone prevention.
Which Type Of Tea Causes Kidney Stones
Now, after knowing that green tea prevents the formation of kidney stones, you might be thinking that the effect is the same with other tea varieties as well. Arent you?
However, this is not true!
There are teas that cause kidney stones. Those who already suffer from kidney stones are not supposed to drink tea. This is because tea contains a high amount of oxalate that leads to the formation of kidney stones.
If you consume too much tea you can end up with kidney stones.
Now, as already discussed, green tea has a preventive effect with regard to kidney stones and this shows that not every tea causes them. It all depends on the oxalate level of tea.
When compared to green tea, black tea has a higher amount of oxalate present in it and therefore should be avoided.
P.S. It is still not very clear whether by bringing down your consumption of oxalate-rich foods you can prevent kidney stones or not. So, those with a history of kidney stones need to limit their consumption of food and drink that has more amount of oxalate.
You can always drink green tea as the amount of oxalate in it is quite less when compared to that of black tea.
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Is Decaf Coffee Good For Your Liver
Sorry, youll need to reach for the high-octane stuff. Much of coffees beneficial effects on the liver come from the buzz. You have to consume regular coffee not decaf daily to get the liver benefits, Dr. Wakim-Fleming says. Theres something inherent about caffeine that is helpful to the liver.
There are other beneficial ingredients as well. Coffee contains antioxidants and other compounds that all play a big role in decreasing liver inflammation, she adds.
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What Makes Coffee So Good For The Kidney
When researchers accounted for various demographic characteristics, as well as socioeconomic status, any lifestyle influences, and relevant dietary factors, they concluded coffee drinkers had a 15-percent lower risk of AKI. Even when the team adjusted for additional co-morbidities coffee drinkers still had an 11-percent lower risk of developing AKI.
We suspect that the reason for coffees impact on AKI risk may be that either biologically active compounds combined with caffeine or just the caffeine itself improves perfusion and oxygen utilization within the kidneys, Dr. Parikh explains. Good kidney function and tolerance to AKI is dependent on a steady blood supply and oxygen.
As far as why or how coffee protects the kidneys, study authors say more research is necessary to answer those questions. Moreover, the team also wants to look at the potential impact of various coffee additives as well as the influence of individual consumption habits of other caffeinated beverages.
Caffeine has been postulated to inhibit the production of molecules that cause chemical imbalances and the use of too much oxygen in the kidneys, Parikh explains. Perhaps caffeine helps the kidneys maintain a more stable system.
The findings appear in Kidney International Reports.
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Many Of Us Enjoy Our Morning Cup Of Coffee And Although We May Not Consider Its Effects On Our Health Caffeine Creates Many Changes Throughout The Body But How Does It Affect The Kidneys
Coffee is one of the worlds favourite beverages, and its popularity has spurred interest in the various effects it has on health. However, it seems that coffees relationship to health may be a complex one.
As most people know, the active chemical in coffee is caffeine, which produces various effects, including stimulating the mind and body, increasing blood pressure, and having a diuretic effect on the urinary tract. But does this mean that coffee affects the Kidneys? Well, the short answer is yes, but it might not be as simple as you think.
Is Drinking Coffee/caffeine Bad For Your Kidneys
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CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS, BLOOD PRESSURE, AND KIDNEY DISEASEHowever, despite the possibility of these kidney damaging effects of caffeine that would “make sense”, the evidence has not quite panned out that way
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