Common Habit Is HARMING Your Kidneys
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted April 1, 2024
When was the last time you gave your kidneys some thought?
The heart, brain, and digestive systems receive constant attention, but we tend to overlook our hardworking kidneys.
No one ever thinks of them because they tirelessly (and quietly) do their job… that is until they’re damaged.
And it turns out there’s one common habit that could be wreaking HAVOC on your kidney health…
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major health concern that’s becoming more common by the day. This progressive condition, characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function, can lead to serious complications and even kidney failure.
While factors such as age, genetics, and underlying health conditions can contribute to the development of CKD, a recent large-scale study has revealed ANOTHER factor we can’t afford to ignore.
It turns out our fondness for sugary AND artificially sweetened beverages is wreaking havoc on our kidneys.
The U.K. Biobank study, which included 127,830 adults, found that drinking more than one daily serving of either is associated with an increased risk of developing CKD.
This finding is particularly concerning for older adults, who are already at a higher risk of developing CKD due to age-related changes in kidney function.
The study highlights the problems with added sugars and artificial sweeteners for kidney health.
Sugary beverages, such as sodas and fruit juices, can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure—all of which are known CKD risk factors.
Additionally, the high phosphorus content in many of these drinks can put EXTRA strain on the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering out excess phosphorus from the body.
And don’t be fooled—artificially sweetened beverages, which are marketed as healthier alternatives to sugary drinks, are just as much of a problem as their sugar-filled counterparts.
While the exact mechanisms aren’t yet fully understood, the fake stuff could disrupt the bacterial balance of the gut, leading to metabolic changes that harm the kidneys over time.
The good news is that the U.K. Biobank study also found that substituting one daily serving of either type of beverage with a natural juice or water was associated with a reduced risk of developing CKD.
This highlights how VITAL it is to make healthier beverage choices that support kidney health.
For older adults, adopting a kidney-friendly lifestyle can make a huge difference in preventing or managing CKD as well.
In addition to reducing the number of sweetened beverages and opting for healthier alternatives (like water or unsweetened tea), a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is critical.
Also, be sure to limit the processed foods and added sugars you are eating.
Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and staying well-hydrated all contribute to a kidney-friendly lifestyle.
By making these positive changes and working closely with healthcare providers to monitor kidney function, you can take control of your health and reduce your risk of developing or worsening CKD.
P.S. Discover the disturbing truth about diet soda.
Source:
Heo, G. Y., Koh, H. B., Park, J. T., Han, S. H., Yoo, H., Kang, W., & Kim, H. W. (2024). Sweetened Beverage Intake and Incident Chronic Kidney Disease in the UK Biobank Study. JAMA Network Open, 7(2).
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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