Supplements can be helpful when your diet does not provide enough nutrients, but taking too many can cause problems. Experts say your kidneys may be affected if your body has to process more supplements than it actually needs, reports EatingWell.
Your kidneys keep your body in balance
Your kidneys filter waste products from the blood while also regulating the body's fluid and electrolyte levels. This makes them essential for maintaining the body's internal balance.
Too many supplements can put extra strain on your kidneys
When your body receives more supplements than it needs, your kidneys must process and eliminate the excess. This can increase the workload on these vital organs.
Natural products can also cause problems
It's not only vitamin and mineral supplements that may affect the kidneys. According to experts, certain herbal products have also been linked to kidney damage.
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Some herbs may harm kidney function
Aloe vera, licorice root, and cat's claw are mentioned as examples of herbal supplements that may damage kidney cells, reduce blood flow to the kidneys, promote crystal formation, or interact with other medications.
The damage can be both immediate and long term
Problems caused by certain supplements may develop into acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, or permanent changes to kidney tissue.
Vitamin D can increase calcium in the urine
Vitamin D supplements increase the body's absorption of calcium from the intestines. In people who are susceptible, this may result in higher levels of calcium in the urine.
Crystals can develop into kidney stones
When urine becomes highly concentrated with calcium and other stone-forming substances, such as oxalate or phosphate, crystals may form and eventually develop into kidney stones.
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Calcium carbonate can increase the workload
Calcium carbonate, which is commonly used to relieve heartburn and indigestion, can provide large amounts of calcium when taken frequently or in high doses. The kidneys must then eliminate the excess.
Combining vitamin D and calcium may increase the risk
Taking high doses of vitamin D together with calcium carbonate can further increase calcium levels in the urine, raising the risk of developing kidney stones.
Mineral balance can be disrupted
The kidneys regulate minerals including calcium, phosphate, potassium, and magnesium. High doses of certain supplements may interfere with this balance, particularly in people with reduced kidney function.
Check whether multiple products contain the same ingredients
If you take several supplements at the same time, read the ingredient labels carefully. Otherwise, you may unknowingly consume excessive amounts of the same vitamin or mineral.
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Choose supplements carefully
Experts recommend avoiding the mindset that higher doses automatically provide greater benefits. A registered dietitian can help assess your needs, review possible interactions with medications, and advise how long supplements should be taken. It's also recommended to choose products that have been independently tested by organizations such as USP or NSF.
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This article is made and published by Mie Hermansen, who may have used AI in the preparation.