Is the risk of kidney damage understood by gym enthusiasts? Certainly yes. To give you a complete guide we have posted this blog.
Isn’t it a great feeling when you hit the gym regularly, look amazing, and receive tones of compliments? But have you ever wondered at what cost? There is a huge difference between looking good and being healthy. If you or your loved one uses workout supplements, then this blog is just the thing for you.
We are witnessing a sudden surge in the number of people who hit the gym regularly. This has led to an increase in the consumption of various workout supplements in order to enhance performance and maintain a better physique. However, people need to keep in mind that these products are only effective when taken or consumed in moderation. Simply taking it without sufficient and reliable advice and prior knowledge can be extremely detrimental to your health.
Kidney problems from exercise supplements
Exercise supplements consist of protein powders, pre-workout supplements, creatinine, and so on. Usually, these workout supplements are not known to cause problems on their own when taken in moderation. Generally, people who misuse these supplements by overusing them and those who suffer from pre-existing diseases face severe kidney damage. Some of the common kidney problems from exercise supplements are as follows:
- Kidney stones: The major reason for kidney stones can be excessive consumption of protein supplements along with dehydration. This increases the levels of certain waste products, such as plasma urea, in the urine, which overburdens the kidney, resulting in kidney stones.
- Dehydration: Consuming supplements such as caffeine, which overstimulates the body without drinking enough water, makes it harder for your kidneys to flush out the toxins from your body, resulting in severe kidney problems.
- Acute kidney injury is basically a sudden decrease in normal kidney function that, if not treated timely, may ultimately result in kidney failure.
- Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where muscle tissue breaks down rapidly, releasing a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream, which causes severe kidney damage.
Are protein powders responsible for kidney damage?
Protein powders are not known to cause kidney damage on their own when consumed in moderation under the guidance of a certified dietician. These tend to affect people who either overuse these supplements or are suffering from pre-existing health conditions. Broadly speaking, protein powder can be a useful tool for individuals, such as athletes, who have very specific fitness goals. Protein powder must be consumed moderately as per the instructions and guidelines. The following points must be considered when using a protein powder:
- Hydration
- Dosage
- Quality and source
- Individual health status and requirements
- Allergies
Natural ways to support kidney health while using supplements
The only straightforward method to support your kidney health is to maintain a proper lifestyle along with a
healthy diet. You can do this by considering the following points:
- The most important aspects of maintaining healthy kidneys are staying hydrated and getting sound sleep.
- The next most important aspect is maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.
- Monitor your protein intake and blood pressure.
- Limit the use of supplements and exercise regularly
- Manage your stress.
Safe workout supplements for kidney health
Almost all workout supplements can be deemed safe if consumed in moderation under the proper guidance of either a healthcare provider or a registered dietician. Some of the most common workout supplements are listed below:
- Protein supplements such as whey or plant-based choices
- Multivitamins
- Beta-Alanine
- Caffeine
There is a wide range of supplements available on the market; the only thing you need to consider is using them responsibly. In addition to using them appropriately, you need to stay hydrated, get regularly checked, and maintain a balanced and healthy diet in order to avoid the possible threats of kidney damage.
