The Growing Concern of Kidney Disease Linked to Gym Supplements

Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology | Oct 24, 2024

Introduction

Have you been taking gym supplements to get your dream body? Perhaps you are seeing others take it and are now hooked on the idea.

There's no doubt that gym supplements are getting very popular.

Health and fitness enthusiasts consistently incorporate dietary supplements into their routines. The manufacturers and sellers market these products like they enhance athletic performance and improve the health of the consumer.

However, the growing concern of kidney disease linked to gym supplements is real. There is an increased risk that individuals may get kidney disease if they overuse gym supplements.

Now that you are here, let us share why supplements are bad for kidneys. Consider reading this post till the end.

The Lethal Effects of Gym Supplements on Kidneys

When you consume gym supplements too often, there is a chance your kidneys will be affected.

• Creatine and Caffeine: Creatine and caffeine are the most common ingredients in supplements. Does creatine cause kidney problems? There are many people who ask this question. They give the user endurance and allow them to do high-intensity workouts. But anything in excess is bad for you. If you take these gym supplements too many times, your heart rate will go up. Your blood pressure will rise and cause major problems for you. All of this is avoidable. The effects of creatine on kidneys can be detrimental.
• Steroids: You might have heard about steroids. Steroids like testosterone and dexona are consumed just to enhance overall performance. But these have harmful effects on the human kidney. The most lethal effect is that it could damage your kidneys beyond repair.
• Cough Syrup and Alcohol Overconsumption: Many people like the effect of cough syrup. They think it relaxes them, but in the long run, it can cause major damage as well. Alcohol does no good to your body, and it damages your kidneys. You should limit your intake of alcohol or give up on it forever.
• Diuretics: There are many young people who use diuretics to get rid of puffiness after the overuse of steroids. But if you use these many times, your kidneys will get damaged. Consider not using them at all. And, if you are using them, limit the intake.

Real-Life Examples You Should Know Of

Don't just take our word for it. Check out some real examples we have to share, and make sure to take them seriously.

• First: This is the example of a 19-year-old living in South Delhi. The teenager had a seizure. Then their kidneys failed. Moral: It doesn't matter how young or old you are. Your kidneys can get damaged.
• Second: A 28-year-old owner of a gym witnessed a spike in his blood creatinine level. He could see protein leakage in the urine. The urine will also appear foamy. All this could mean that his kidneys got stressed.
• Third: A 17-year-old experienced sudden weight gain, and they saw frothy urine too. They got kidney stones, and the creatinine levels went up.
• Fourth: A 19-year-old medical student had an elevated creatinine level due to extreme dietary restrictions and an overdose of supplements.

What's similar about all these examples? All of them overused gym supplements. Everyone wants to lead a healthy life. It's best to stay on a safer path.

The Importance of Having a Healthy Diet

It's important to eat a healthy meal each day. You have to ensure your kidney health is on point. Did you know WHO recommends 1 mg/kg/day of protein each day? However, anything more than that could cause dehydration and injury to the kidneys. Protein might start leaking, and you will start feeling dizzy.

Do not stop eating healthy, whole foods. Don't take too many gym supplements.

• Hydration is the Key

  Drinking plenty of water is essential. It is meant to keep your kidneys healthy. When your body does not have as much water, the waste products in the blood also increase. This will cause kidney damage.

  You must drink lots of water. Low fluid intake will cause your urine to be a lot more concentrated. It will also lead to kidney stones in the long run. Kidney stones are painful and sometimes need to be removed surgically. Consume enough water to keep your kidneys healthy and fine.

• Understand When to Stop

  Gym supplements can be tempting for fitness enthusiasts. You have been seeing influencers and athletes take them, but there is a limit to everything. Sure, you want to improve your athletic performance, but that should not mean ruining your health.

  Young adults are experiencing kidney damage simply because they are overusing gym supplements. These supplements contain cough syrups, creatine, caffeine, steroids, and alcohol. Some of them have nicotine as well.

Protein powder and kidney problems have a history! You must speak to your nutritionist and physician to know how much is enough for your body.

Concluding Thoughts

There is a risk of kidney damage if you overuse any of these. You should eat healthy food and follow a fit and fine lifestyle. Don't depend on supplements. It's best to take care of your kidneys by staying hydrated and eating healthy meals.

FAQs