Doctor Nguyen Duy Tung from Nutrihome Nutrition Center explains that bubble tea often contains sugar, saturated fat, artificial flavorings, and numerous additives. Regular consumption in large quantities can increase the metabolic and excretory burden, overworking the kidneys. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or kidney stones should exercise caution when consuming this beverage.

Limit sugar and fat. A 500 ml cup of bubble tea with full sugar can contain 30-40 g of sugar, exceeding the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended daily intake of 25 g. Some creamy, condensed milk, or milk powder used in bubble tea preparation contain saturated fat, which is detrimental to cardiovascular and kidney health. For those in good health, it's advisable to opt for 30-50% sugar levels and limit toppings like tapioca pearls and cream cheese to reduce overall calorie and fat intake.

Avoid drinking bubble tea on an empty stomach or at night. Consuming bubble tea on an empty stomach can cause digestive upset, bloating, and rapid increases in blood sugar levels. Drinking it at night can lead to frequent nighttime urination, disrupting sleep and the kidneys' blood filtration process. Doctor Duy Tung recommends consuming bubble tea 1-2 hours after a main meal, preferably in the morning or early afternoon to avoid negatively impacting the body's natural rhythms.

Choose easily digestible toppings. Traditional tapioca pearls are made from tapioca starch, which is high in starch and can be difficult to digest, potentially causing constipation with frequent consumption. Healthier topping choices include aloe vera jelly, chia seeds, and low-sugar agar-agar jelly. Consuming these toppings in moderation can ease the burden on the digestive system and kidneys while still providing a satisfying taste.

Limit bubble tea consumption to protect kidney function. Photo: Trong Nghia

Don't substitute bubble tea for water. While some people have the habit of drinking bubble tea daily, it's not beneficial for health. Bubble tea doesn't provide the same hydration and minerals as plain water or natural fruit juices, while containing empty calories and additives. In the long term, frequent bubble tea consumption can cause electrolyte imbalances, metabolic disorders, and impact the kidneys' blood filtration function.

Important considerations for individuals with underlying health conditions. Doctor Duy Tung advises individuals with chronic kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, or those taking diuretics to limit sugary and fatty beverages like bubble tea. Consult a doctor before consuming or consider alternatives such as vegetable juice, low-sugar fruit juice, or herbal tea. Supplements with natural extracts like GDL-5 from South American sugarcane can help regulate blood lipids, reducing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases caused by high cholesterol.

The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering blood, eliminating toxins, and maintaining homeostasis. Protecting kidney health starts with small habits, including mindful choices about popular beverages like bubble tea.

Doctor Duy Tung recommends that healthy individuals limit bubble tea consumption to 1-2 times a week, with no more than 500 ml per serving. Prioritize a balanced diet and regular exercise. Regular nutritional check-ups, body composition analysis using InBody 770, and micronutrient testing using UPLC can identify any nutritional deficiencies or excesses. This information allows doctors to tailor dietary advice and recommend appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements to boost overall health and resilience.

Trong Nghia