What Should You Not Drink With Kidney Problems?

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Kidney Foundation, more than 1 in 7 American adults have chronic kidney disease, making dietary management crucial for millions. This includes being vigilant about what you drink, as certain beverages can exacerbate kidney problems and increase the risk of complications. Understanding what should you not drink with kidney problems is a critical step in managing your condition effectively.

Quick Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of drinks to limit or avoid when managing kidney issues, detailing specific reasons, including high levels of phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and sugar. It covers specific categories like sodas, fruit juices, and alcohol, offering healthier alternatives and general hydration tips for maintaining kidney health.

Key Points

Avoid dark-colored sodas: These contain phosphoric acid, a phosphate additive that is harmful to damaged kidneys by adding to the phosphorus burden.
Limit high-potassium juices: Drinks like orange, prune, and coconut water can dangerously increase potassium levels in the blood, especially for those with reduced kidney function.
Restrict alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol raises blood pressure, causes dehydration, and can lead to liver damage, all of which stress the kidneys.
Steer clear of energy drinks: High caffeine and sugar content can dangerously increase heart rate and blood pressure, placing undue stress on the kidneys.
Choose water over sugary drinks: Sweetened teas and lemonades contribute to health risks like diabetes, which is a leading cause of kidney disease.
Seek professional advice: Fluid and electrolyte needs are highly individual for kidney patients; always consult a doctor or dietitian for personalized recommendations.

For individuals with compromised kidney function, dietary management is a cornerstone of health. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and balancing minerals, and certain ingredients in common beverages can place an undue burden on these vital organs. What you choose to drink can have a profound effect on your kidney health, with some seemingly harmless options posing significant risks.

High-Phosphorus Drinks to Avoid

When kidney function declines, the body's ability to filter out excess phosphorus is impaired, leading to a buildup that can weaken bones and cause heart problems. Phosphate additives are commonly found in processed beverages.

Dark-colored sodas: Cola drinks are a major culprit, containing high levels of phosphoric acid, which is added for flavor and preservation. Both regular and diet varieties pose a risk to kidney health due to this additive.
Certain bottled iced teas and sports drinks: Many commercial varieties are loaded with phosphate additives and other ingredients that stress the kidneys.
Chocolate and cocoa drinks: Beverages made with powdered chocolate or cocoa, especially when combined with milk, are high in phosphorus and should be limited or avoided.
Commercial coffee creamers: Many non-dairy creamers contain phosphate additives and can increase your phosphorus intake.

Limiting High-Potassium Beverages

Potassium is a crucial electrolyte, but when the kidneys can't remove excess amounts, it can lead to hyperkalemia, a dangerous condition that can cause irregular heart rhythms. Some common drinks are surprisingly high in potassium.

Certain fruit juices: Juices from oranges, prunes, and pomegranates are notably high in potassium. Even some apple and cranberry juices can have significant amounts if not from a no-sugar-added source.
Malted milk drinks and hot chocolate: These can have high potassium levels, especially if made with dairy milk.
Coconut water: A popular health beverage, coconut water is extremely high in potassium and is unsuitable for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Excessive coffee: While moderate black coffee is often okay, heavy consumption (more than 3-4 cups) can increase potassium intake and may be problematic for those with advanced CKD.

Avoid These Other Problematic Drinks

Beyond phosphorus and potassium, other common drinks contain ingredients that can harm kidney function or exacerbate underlying conditions.

Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause dehydration, raise blood pressure, and cause liver damage, which indirectly strains the kidneys. Chronic heavy drinking doubles the risk of developing kidney disease. Individuals on dialysis or with liver complications from alcohol should be particularly cautious.
Energy drinks: These beverages are packed with high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other additives that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for kidney disease. Their stimulant effects place extra stress on the kidneys.
High-sugar drinks: Sweetened teas, lemonades, and sugary squashes contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes, a leading cause of kidney failure. High sugar intake also increases the kidneys' workload.
Sports drinks: These are designed to replenish electrolytes after intense exercise and can contain high levels of sodium and potassium, which are unsafe for people with kidney disease.

Comparison of Drinks for Kidney Health


Drink Type	Reason to Limit/Avoid	Best Low-Risk Alternative
Dark Cola Sodas	High in phosphoric acid; adds unnecessary phosphorus burden.	Clear, diet sodas (in moderation), or carbonated water with a splash of fruit juice.
Orange Juice	Very high in potassium, which can accumulate in the blood.	Apple juice (low-sugar), cranberry juice (unsweetened), or water with citrus slices.
Excessive Alcohol	Increases blood pressure, causes dehydration, and can lead to liver damage.	Water, herbal tea, or kidney-friendly mocktails.
Energy Drinks	High caffeine, sugar, and additives that strain the kidneys.	Water or low-caffeine, low-sugar herbal teas.
Coconut Water	Extremely high in potassium, unsuitable for CKD patients.	Water or other low-potassium beverages.
Malted Drinks	Contains high levels of potassium and phosphorus, especially with added milk.	Plain, unsweetened tea or water.

Essential Hydration for Kidney Health

Even with restrictions, proper hydration is vital. Water is the best choice, but for those who find it bland, infused water with low-potassium fruits like berries or lemon can add flavor without compromising kidney safety. Herbal teas and low-sugar cordials are also good options. It is crucial for individuals with advanced kidney disease to consult their doctor or a renal dietitian to determine their specific fluid intake limits, as too much fluid can also be harmful.

Conclusion: Prioritize Informed Choices for Your Kidneys

Making mindful beverage choices is a powerful way to support kidney health. By understanding which ingredients are harmful—especially excessive phosphorus, potassium, and sugar—individuals with kidney problems can make informed decisions that protect their bodies. Avoiding dark sodas, high-potassium fruit juices, excessive alcohol, and energy drinks is a crucial step. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to create a personalized diet plan tailored to your specific kidney condition. For further authoritative information on dietary management for kidney disease, the National Kidney Foundation is an excellent resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Moderation is key. While moderate coffee consumption is often safe, excessive intake can pose problems due to its potassium content and potential to raise blood pressure. People with advanced CKD or high blood pressure should consult their doctor.

Dark colas contain phosphoric acid, an additive that raises the level of phosphorus in the blood. Damaged kidneys struggle to filter out excess phosphorus, which can lead to weakened bones and heart issues over time.

Plain water is the best drink for kidney health, as it is free of calories, sugar, and additives. Herbal teas and infused water with low-potassium fruits like lemon or berries are also great options.

Not necessarily, but moderation is advised. While some juices like apple or cranberry (low-sugar) can be okay in small amounts, high-potassium options like orange or pomegranate juice should be avoided. Always choose versions with no added sugar.

Fluid intake requirements vary widely based on your specific condition and stage of kidney disease. It is crucial to follow your doctor's or dietitian's recommendation, as too much fluid can cause dangerous fluid retention, especially in later stages.

Sports and electrolyte drinks are designed for intense exercise and often contain high levels of sodium, potassium, and artificial ingredients. These added electrolytes can be harmful to people with kidney disease who need to carefully manage their mineral intake.

Excessive alcohol consumption is dangerous, but moderate intake may be permissible for some patients. Alcohol can increase blood pressure and dehydrate the body. You must discuss alcohol use with your doctor to understand what is safe for your specific condition.