Moderate Coffee Consumption May Help Reduce Risk of Kidney Stones, Experts Say

Islamabad: Health experts say that moderate coffee consumption may help protect kidney function and reduce the risk of developing kidney stones, although the benefits can vary depending on an individual’s overall health, caffeine intake, and the way coffee is prepared.

According to medical specialists, drinking coffee is widely known to improve alertness, concentration, and energy levels, but research also suggests it may offer several long-term health benefits, including support for kidney health.

Dr. Donald D. Hensrud, a medical editor at the Mayo Clinic, has noted that regular coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of several conditions, including Type 2 Diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease, liver disease, certain cancers, depression, suicidal behavior, kidney stones, gallstones, and overall mortality.

A study published in 2018 in the academic field of Nephrology analyzed data from more than 4,860 adults with chronic kidney disease in the United States. Participants were divided into groups based on their daily caffeine intake, ranging from very low consumption to more than 213.5 milligrams of caffeine per day, roughly equivalent to two or more cups of coffee.

During a five-year follow-up period, researchers found that participants with higher caffeine intake had a 22% to 26% lower risk of death compared with those consuming the least amount of caffeine, even after adjusting for other factors.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, caffeine can increase urine production, which may help reduce the accumulation of minerals that form kidney stones in the urinary tract.

Health information platform Verywell Health also notes that some studies have linked regular coffee consumption with a lower likelihood of developing kidney stones. However, experts caution that more coffee does not necessarily mean greater benefits.

Medical professionals generally recommend limiting caffeine intake to around 400 milligrams per day for healthy adults, equivalent to about three to four standard cups of coffee. Excessive caffeine consumption may lead to insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, and irregular heart rhythms.

Experts also warn that coffee beverages containing large amounts of sugar, flavored syrups, heavy cream, or sweetened milk can significantly increase calorie and sugar intake, potentially offsetting health benefits.

People living with kidney disease, high blood pressure, or other chronic health conditions are advised to consult their healthcare providers regarding appropriate caffeine consumption and dietary choices.