Do Bodybuilding Supplements Damage Your Kidneys?

It’s no secret that the younger generation is divided into two groups: those who indulge in junk food and those who prioritize their health. The latter group is made up of fitness enthusiasts who hit the gym regularly, follow a keto diet, practice detox, intermittent fasting, and various weight management regimes. Among these gym-goers, some take supplements to improve their strength, enhance their athletic performance, or do more intense workouts.

It’s fascinating to see how the fitness industry has evolved over the years. From traditional workouts to modern-day fitness regimes, people are now more conscious of their health than ever before.

The India sports nutrition market size reached US$ 1.5 billion in 2022. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 2.5 billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during 2023-2028. Sports nutrition products include supplements, sports drinks, energy bars, and protein powders. However, with the rise of gym supplements, there has been a growing concern about their impact on our health. Are they safe? Do they cause kidney diseases? These are some of the questions that have been raised in recent times.

Use of Gym Supplements- A Debatable Topic

Some studies say that too much of some supplements can cause kidney problems, especially in young people. Gym supplements which contain excess protein, caffeine, steroids, cough syrups, growth hormones, and in some cases alcohol or nicotine affect kidney health.
Other studies say that there is no link between supplements and chronic kidney disease. They even suggest that some supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics, can have beneficial effects on kidney health, as they can prevent infections, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

The truth is, it depends on what kind of supplements you take, how much you take, and your overall health.

Let’s discuss in detail some of the supplements that may affect kidney health:

Protein Supplements: Protein supplements are used by people who want to build muscle mass and strength. But, consuming too much protein can increase the workload of the kidneys. This is because the kidneys have to filter out the excess nitrogen and waste products. Over time, this can lead to dehydration, kidney stones, and kidney damage.

Caffeine supplements: Caffeine supplements are used to boost energy, alertness, and endurance. However, consuming too much caffeine can cause dehydration. This is because caffeine makes the body lose water and electrolytes. Over time, dehydration can impair kidney function and increase the risk of kidney stones.

Steroids: Steroids such as Dexona and Testosterone are like the superheroes of the performance-enhancing world. They can help you build muscle mass and strength, but they come with a catch. Consuming these steroids in excess can lead to chronic renal disease.

Growth Hormones: Anabolic-androgenic steroids and growth hormones are commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders. They can affect the kidney in different ways, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and glomerular toxicity. However, the exact effect of growth hormone on the kidney is not yet clear. Vitamins A, D, E, and K can cause a build-up in your system and should be avoided if you have unhealthy kidneys, especially if you have chronic renal disease.

Conclusion

The truth is, that the effects of supplements on kidney health depend on many factors, such as the type, dose, quality, and duration of the supplement use, as well as the individual’s health status, lifestyle, and genetic predisposition. Therefore, it is important to be informed, cautious, and responsible when using supplements, and to consult a doctor before starting or changing any supplement regimen.
If you or your dear ones are suffering from any kidney-related disorder, Shalby Hospitals is one of the best hospitals for kidney treatment. We provide world-class treatment by kidney specialists in Ahmedabad at affordable rates. We are also one of the leading hospitals for kidney transplantation in Gujarat. Book your appointment at Shalby Hospitals today and get the best treatment for your kidneys.