Drinking coffee daily not only helps improve alertness, increase focus, and reduce fatigue, but it may also offer several benefits for kidney health. However, its impact depends on the amount consumed, preparation method, and individual health status.
Supporting kidney function protection
According to Mayo Clinic, coffee contains many bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and limit cell damage. These effects are believed to contribute to the long-term protection of kidney function.
A 2019 study published in the journal Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation analyzed data from over 4,860 adults with chronic kidney disease in the US. Participants were divided into four groups based on daily caffeine intake. The lowest consumption group consumed under 28,2 mg of caffeine per day (equivalent to less than one-third of a cup of coffee). The second group consumed 28,2-103 mg, the third group 103-213,5 mg, and the highest group consumed over 213,5 mg per day (approximately two cups of coffee or more).
During the five-year follow-up, approximately 1,280 people died. After adjusting for confounding factors, results showed that all three groups consuming more caffeine had a lower risk of mortality compared to the lowest consumption group, with a reduction ranging from 22% to 26%.
Diuretic but not dehydrating
Caffeine in coffee has a mild diuretic effect, causing the body to urinate more in the short term after consumption. This leads many to believe that coffee can cause dehydration or make kidneys work harder.
However, according to Harvard Health, in regular coffee drinkers, the body gradually adapts to caffeine's effects. The fluid from coffee still contributes to the total daily fluid intake and typically does not cause significant dehydration if the individual also drinks enough water.
Despite this, coffee should not completely replace plain water. Drinking sufficient water remains the top priority for helping kidneys eliminate waste and maintain normal physiological functions.
Reducing kidney stones
According to the National Kidney Foundation in the US, caffeine can increase urine volume, thereby helping reduce the deposition and crystallization of stone-forming minerals in the urinary tract. Some studies also note a reduced risk of kidney stones in regular coffee consumers. However, this benefit does not mean that drinking more coffee is always better, according to Very Well Health. Excessive caffeine intake can cause insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, or palpitations in some individuals.
For most healthy individuals, moderate coffee consumption is not harmful to the kidneys and may even offer some benefits. Experts recommend that healthy adults limit caffeine intake to about 400 mg per day, equivalent to three to four cups of regular brewed coffee. However, coffee is not suitable for everyone.
Caffeine can cause a temporary, slight increase in blood pressure, especially in individuals sensitive to the substance. Furthermore, coffee's benefits may diminish if it is regularly enhanced with large amounts of sugar, condensed milk, heavy cream, or flavored syrups, which increase sugar and energy intake. Individuals with kidney disease, hypertension, or other underlying health conditions should consult a doctor regarding appropriate caffeine intake.
