No, healthy people need not worry about that. But if you suffer from kidney disease, it is another matter; you should consult with your doctor before consuming protein powder as a kidney patient.
Now that we've answered the question about the consequences, let's think about why this rumor is still alive. Fitness fans believe shakes are good for the body, while relatives say they can damage the kidneys. Let's clarify this issue.
Where Is This Myth From?
The thing about protein is that when it enters your body and is digested, there are some waste products produced, and these waste products are filtered out by your bean-shaped filters. More protein means more filtering. The people jumped from harder working to damaged filters.
Actually, healthy filters are designed to manage this process.
What Do the Studies Say?
There are several studies that examined this issue.
- Antonio et al. (2016, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition): This study involved resistance-trained men who consumed a high-protein diet for one year and showed no adverse changes in their kidney markers.
- Devries et al. (2018, Journal of Nutrition): The meta-analysis found that there were no significant changes in the functioning of the kidney in healthy adults consuming the higher-protein diets.
- Poortmans & Dellalieux (2000, International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism): There were no signs of renal damage in the athletes who followed high-protein diets.
- Knight et al. (2003, Annals of Internal Medicine): In patients who already have some kidney problems, higher protein intake is associated with faster progression of the condition. That is the reason for the caution regarding high-protein diets for people with kidney diseases.
What about whey's effect on kidneys?
Whey protein's effects are what people want to know most. In general, whey is just protein derived from milk, and its consumption is not connected to any harm to people's kidneys. The problem arises from certain factors, namely, bad quality of products, excessively large doses, insufficient water intake, or having some underlying medical condition that was not properly diagnosed.
Who Should hit the brakes?
- People with diagnosed chronic kidney disease or diminished renal function
- Those with a single functioning organ
- Anyone with diabetes or high blood pressure that's poorly controlled
- People who were advised by their doctor to limit protein intake
Fast Comparison
|
Situation |
Protein Powder? |
Translation |
|
Healthy adult, normal intake |
Generally fine |
Shake away, champ |
|
Pre-existing renal issues |
Ask your doctor first |
Don't freestyle |
|
Drinking many things while being dehydrated and having some diseases is bad. |
Risky combo. |
Drink some water! |
Herbs and Ayurveda
However, after the protein panic subsides, people begin to research which herbs are good for kidneys. Ancient traditions mention herbs such as punarnava and gokshura. Curious readers search for the best kidney herbs in general and also try to find out which herbal kidney supplements are the best. The reality is that herbs should not replace medical treatment, and there is not much scientific evidence for their positive effect.
Some people with chronic kidney disease may try to seek a natural remedy next to the modern treatment. Others learn about Ayurvedic treatment for kidney disease to gain more knowledge of this method.
For example, some practitioners like Dr. Puneet Dhawan and hospitals like Karma Ayurveda for renal treatment are famous for their work in this sphere. If you decide to seek such treatment, inform your doctor, as some herbs can be dangerous for your health and interact with your current medicines.
Simple Habits That Really Help
- Drink enough water
- Skip random and unlabeled supplements
- Have one annual blood work session
- Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar controlled.
- Choose third-party-tested products
Key Takeaways
- There is no proof that protein powders can harm people.
- You will have to change the usual diet and lifestyle if you have renal problems
- Hydration and quality of products are more important than using a specific measuring scoop
- Herbal treatments can be a helpful addition to traditional healthcare methods, but never should substitute for it
📩 Ask a Kidney Expert (Free 10-Min Consultation)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any relationship between whey protein and kidney stones?
No. However, low fluid intake in combination with excessive use of this drug is capable of increasing the risk of developing this condition.
How much protein is too much?
For most healthy adults, the amount of this vitamin should not exceed 1.6 g per kg of body weight, as shown by some research.
Is plant protein better for the kidneys?
It may be a milder option for people with health problems, but healthy people will cope well with either of the two.
Should I get tested before starting protein shakes?
If you’ve got risk factors, a quick blood test is a smart, cheap move.
Disclaimer
This blog is for general information only and isn’t medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor before starting any supplement, herb, or treatment, especially with an existing health condition. Mentions of practitioners or centers are informational, not endorsements or guarantees of results.
