Many can’t start their day without a cup of coffee. This drink has numerous benefits, from boosting your energy to lowering the risk of many diseases. Even though coffee is great in many ways, it can also have a surprising side effect.
Read on to learn what it is.
Kidney Damage
A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology investigated the connection between consuming too much coffee and kidney damage. The research involved 3,800 participants, and the scientists looked at 372 blood metabolites. Metabolites are products of metabolic reactions when our bodies break down food, medication, muscles, or fat.
The results showed 41 metabolites were connected to coffee consumption. Out of the 41, three metabolites were associated with a higher risk of kidney disease.
Does this mean you should stop drinking coffee? Not at all, unless you have existing kidney disease. Scientists agree that moderate amounts of coffee can be good for our health.
In fact, a study published by the National Kidney Foundation shows that one cup of coffee each day reduces the chances of getting kidney stones by 40%. Also, coffee is rich in antioxidants, potassium, and B vitamins. These ingredients reduce the risk of numerous diseases and conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, and even certain types of cancer.
It can be hard to determine a moderate amount of coffee. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 400 mg of caffeine per day won’t cause harmful effects. An eight-ounce cup typically contains around 95 mg of caffeine, meaning you should consume three to four cups of coffee per day at most.
Enjoy Coffee but Be Cautious
Whether it’s the ritual or its taste, coffee has become a sort of fuel for many people. If you want to fully take advantage of the nutrients found in coffee, don’t overconsume it. Otherwise, you could experience side effects and damage your kidneys.
