Our kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and toxins from our bodies, helping to maintain overall health and well-being.

However, certain drinks can have a detrimental impact on kidney health when consumed in excess or over a prolonged period of time. In this article, we will highlight the top 30 drinks that can cause kidney damage, shedding light on the importance of moderation and offering healthier alternatives.

1. Soda and Carbonated Drinks

Sodas and carbonated drinks are notorious for their high sugar content. Additionally, they often contain phosphoric acid, which has been linked to the development of kidney stones and potential kidney damage.

Regular consumption of these beverages can also lead to weight gain and increased risk of diabetes, both of which put pressure on the kidneys.

2. Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can significantly harm kidney function. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it promotes increased urine production. This can lead to dehydration and strain the kidneys, potentially causing long-term damage.

Alcohol also interferes with the body’s ability to regulate fluid levels and electrolyte balance, further impacting kidney health.

3. Energy Drinks

While energy drinks may provide a temporary energy boost, they contain high levels of caffeine and sugar. The combination of these ingredients can lead to elevated blood pressure, dehydration, and increased strain on the kidneys.

Chronic consumption of energy drinks has been associated with kidney damage and other health complications.

4. Bottled Fruit Juice

Fruit juice may seem like a healthy choice, but many store-bought options are loaded with added sugars and artificial additives.

These excessive sugar levels can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which can have a negative impact on kidney health. It’s best to opt for freshly squeezed or homemade fruit juices without any added sweeteners.

5. Soft Drinks

Soft drinks, such as fruit punches, lemonades, and sweetened iced teas, contain high amounts of sugar and artificial sweeteners. These beverages can increase the risk of kidney stones and contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease.

Regular consumption of soft drinks also leads to weight gain and metabolic disorders.

6. Sports Drinks

While sports drinks aim to replenish electrolytes lost during physical activity, they often contain excessive amounts of sugar and sodium. High sugar content can strain the kidneys, and the excessive sodium levels can raise blood pressure.

Proper hydration can usually be achieved with plain water, making sports drinks unnecessary for most individuals.

7. Canned Iced Tea

Canned iced teas often have high levels of oxalate, a compound that contributes to the formation of kidney stones. These beverages also tend to contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives, which can further harm kidney health over time.

Opting for brewed or homemade iced tea with minimal or no sweeteners is a better choice.

8. Flavored Water

Flavored water may seem like a healthy alternative to soda, but many brands contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Excess consumption of these sweetened drinks can result in weight gain and increased risk of kidney damage.

Instead, flavoring water naturally with fruits, vegetables, or herbs is a healthier option.

9. Dairy-Based Drinks

Drinks made from dairy, such as milkshakes, certain coffees, and sweetened milks, often contain high levels of sugar and unhealthy fats.

These ingredients can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which can negatively impact kidney health. Choosing unsweetened or plant-based alternatives is a better choice.

10. Lemonade

Lemonade, especially when made with high amounts of added sugars, can be detrimental to kidney health. The high sugar content in lemonade can not only contribute to weight gain but also increase the risk of kidney stones and metabolic disorders.

Choosing homemade lemonade with minimal or no added sweeteners is a healthier option.

11. Coffee

Coffee itself is not directly linked to kidney damage; however, excessive caffeine consumption can lead to dehydration and raise blood pressure, potentially straining the kidneys.

If consumed in moderation and with plenty of water, coffee is generally safe for kidney health.

12. Black Tea

While black tea is a popular beverage worldwide, excessive consumption can be harmful to kidney health. Black tea contains oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation when consumed in high amounts. Moderation is key when enjoying black tea.

13. Fruit Punch

Fruit punch often contains high levels of added sugars and artificial flavors. These sugary drinks can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, all of which put pressure on the kidneys.

Opting for homemade fruit punch with minimal sweeteners or infused water is a healthier choice.

14. Sweetened Almond Milk

Many sweetened almond milk varieties contain added sugars and flavorings that can be harmful to kidney health when consumed excessively.

It’s important to choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened options and to read the labels carefully to avoid unnecessary additives.

15. Colored Sports Drinks

Colored sports drinks often contain high levels of artificial coloring, flavors, and sugars, all of which can contribute to kidney damage over time.

The vibrant colors of these beverages can be enticing, but it’s essential to prioritize the health of your kidneys and choose healthier hydration alternatives.

Related Article 30 Drinks That Can Harm Your Kidneys

16. Sweetened Coconut Water

Coconut water is generally known for its hydrating properties; however, sweetened versions can be harmful to kidney health due to their high sugar content.

Opting for natural, unsweetened coconut water is a better choice when it comes to preserving kidney health.

17. Malted Drinks

Malted drinks often contain high levels of added sugars and artificial flavors. These ingredients can put stress on the kidneys and contribute to weight gain and metabolic disorders.

Choosing healthier alternatives like herbal teas or plain water is recommended for kidney health.

18. Milk-Based Iced Drinks

Iced drinks made with milk, such as frappuccinos and milkshakes, tend to have high levels of added sugars and unhealthy fats.

Regular consumption of these beverages can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which can negatively impact kidney health.

19. Sweetened Fruit Smoothies

Fruit smoothies can be a nutritious choice, but many store-bought or commercially prepared options contain high levels of added sugars and syrups.

These added sugars can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, all of which are detrimental to kidney health.

20. Hot Chocolate Mixes

Hot chocolate mixes are typically high in added sugars and artificial flavorings. These ingredients can increase the risk of weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which can negatively affect kidney health.

Opting for homemade hot chocolate with natural sweeteners is a better choice.

21. Packaged Fruit Juices

Many packaged fruit juices, including those marketed as “healthy” or “natural,” contain high levels of added sugars and little actual fruit content.

Regular consumption of these beverages can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which can harm the kidneys. Opting for freshly squeezed or homemade fruit juice is a healthier alternative.

22. Sweet Tea

Sweet tea is a popular beverage, especially in certain regions, but its high sugar content can have detrimental effects on kidney health.

Regular consumption of sweet tea can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of kidney damage. Opting for unsweetened or minimally sweetened versions is recommended.

23. Creamy Liqueurs

Creamy liqueurs, such as Baileys or Kahlua, contain high levels of sugar, unhealthy fats, and alcohol. Regular consumption of these beverages can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and liver damage, indirectly affecting kidney health.

It’s best to enjoy these liqueurs in moderation or opt for healthier alternatives.

24. Tonic Water

Tonic water may seem relatively harmless, but it typically contains high amounts of sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Consistent consumption of tonic water can increase the risk of weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which have a negative impact on kidney health. Opting for plain water with a slice of lemon or lime is a better choice.

25. Sweetened Soy Milk

Sweetened soy milk can contain high levels of added sugars and flavorings, which can be detrimental to kidney health when consumed in excess.

Choosing unsweetened or minimally sweetened options will help support kidney health while enjoying the benefits of soy milk.

26. Eggnog

Eggnog is a rich holiday drink made with milk, sugar, eggs, and alcohol. It is incredibly high in calories, unhealthy fats, and added sugars.

Regular consumption of eggnog can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which can negatively affect kidney health.

27. Sweetened Cappuccinos

Cappuccinos made with sweeteners or flavored syrups often have excessive sugar levels. These sugar-laden beverages can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, indirectly impacting kidney health.

Opting for unsweetened or lightly sweetened coffee drinks is a better choice for kidney health.

28. Sweetened Iced Coffee

Iced coffees that are sweetened or contain high levels of added sugars can be detrimental to kidney health when consumed in excess. These sugary beverages can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, all of which strain the kidneys.

Opting for lightly sweetened or unsweetened iced coffees is recommended.

29. Sweetened Flavored Milk

Milk drinks with added sugars and artificial flavors can increase the risk of weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure. These factors indirectly impact kidney health over time.

Choosing unsweetened or lightly sweetened milk alternatives is a better choice for supporting kidney health.

30. Sweetened Ice Cream Floats

Ice cream floats, made with sugary sodas and sweetened ice cream, can have high levels of added sugars and unhealthy fats.

Regular consumption of ice cream floats can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure, all of which negatively affect kidney health. Opting for healthier frozen desserts or homemade ice cream with natural sweeteners is recommended.