Bad and kidneys: health effects
Section 1: kidneys – filters of life and their vulnerability
The kidneys, these two bean -shaped organs located in the lower back play a crucial role in maintaining the health and homeostasis of the body. Their main functions include:
- Blood filtering: The kidneys filter waste, toxins and excess fluid from the blood, forming urine.
- Electrolyte balance regulation: The kidneys control the levels of sodium, potassium, calcium and other blood electrolytes necessary for the normal function of nerves, muscles and heart.
- Control of blood pressure: The kidneys produce hormones, such as renin, which help regulate blood pressure.
- Erythropoetin production: The kidneys produce erythropoetin, a hormone, stimulating the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
- Activation of vitamin D: The kidneys activate vitamin D necessary for the absorption of calcium and bone health.
- Regulation of acid-base balance: The kidneys help to maintain normal pH of blood.
Given such a number of vital functions, the vulnerability of the kidneys to various negative influences becomes obvious. The renal failure, both acute and chronic, can lead to serious health consequences, including the accumulation of toxins in the body, violations of electrolyte balance, high blood pressure, anemia and weakening of bones. Chronic kidney disease (CBP) is especially dangerous, since it often develops imperceptibly and can progress to the terminal stage of renal failure, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Risk factors for the development of kidney diseases include:
- Diabetes: A high blood sugar can damage small blood vessels in the kidneys.
- High blood pressure: High blood pressure can also damage blood vessels in the kidneys.
- Family history of kidney diseases: A genetic predisposition can increase the risk of kidney disease.
- Age: With age, the function of the kidneys usually decreases.
- Race/ethnicity: Some ethnic groups, such as African Americanists, Latin American and indigenous Americans, have a higher risk of kidney disease.
- Obesity: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, which are the main risk factors of kidney disease.
- Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels in the kidneys.
- Some drugs: Some drugs, such as non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can be toxic for kidneys.
Section 2: Bades: review and popularity
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) is a category of products designed to supplement the diet. They can contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes and other substances. Bades are produced in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, liquids and bars.
The popularity of dietary supplements has been steadily growing in recent decades. People accept dietary supplements for various reasons, including:
- Filling a deficiency of nutrients: Some people take dietary supplements to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, which can occur due to unhealthy nutrition, diseases or medication.
- Improving health and well -being: Many people believe that dietary supplements can improve their general state of health and well -being, increase energy, strengthen immunity or improve cognitive functions.
- Prevention of diseases: Some people take dietary supplements for the prevention of diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and osteoporosis.
- Disease treatment: Some people use dietary supplements as an addition to the traditional treatment of various diseases.
- Maintaining physical form: Athletes and people involved in sports often take dietary supplements to increase productivity, increase muscle mass or accelerate recovery after training.
However, it is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment, diagnosis, preventing or relief of any diseases. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not pass strict clinical trials and are not subject to the same control by regulatory organs, such as drugs. This means that the safety and effectiveness of some dietary supplements may not be proven or insufficiently studied. In addition, the quality of dietary supplements can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer and production processes.
Section 3: Mechanisms of the nephrotoxicity of dietary supplements
Despite the apparent harmlessness, some dietary supplements can have a negative effect on the kidneys and even lead to renal failure. The mechanisms through which dietary supplements can damage the kidneys are diverse and include:
- Direct toxic action: Some substances contained in dietary supplements can have a direct toxic effect on the kidney cells, leading to their damage and death. This is especially true for dietary supplements containing heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and mercury, or plant components with nephrotoxic potential (for example, aristolocheic acid).
- Crystal education: Some dietary supplements, especially in high doses, can contribute to the formation of crystals in renal tubules, blocking the outflow of urine and causing renal failure. Such dietary supplements include vitamin C, creatine and some plant extracts.
- Development of tubulo -stylistic nephritis: Some dietary supplements can cause an inflammatory reaction in the kidneys, known as a tubulo -interstitial nephritis. This condition is characterized by damage to the renal tubules and interstitial tissue, which can lead to chronic renal failure.
- Development Glomerulonephritis: In rare cases, some dietary supplements can cause glomerulonephritis, inflammation of the renal glomeruli (glomerul), which are responsible for blood filtering. Glomerulonephritis can lead to proteinuria (the presence of protein in the urine), hematuria (the presence of blood in the urine) and renal failure.
- Exacerbation of existing kidney diseases: Bades containing a large amount of sodium, potassium or phosphorus can aggravate the condition of people with existing kidney diseases. Some dietary supplements can also interact with medicines used to treat kidney diseases, reducing their effectiveness or increasing side effects.
- Dehydration: Some dietary supplements with a diuretic effect (for example, caffeine, green tea) can cause dehydration, which can negatively affect the functions of the kidneys.
- Rabdomiolysis: Some dietary supplements designed to increase muscle mass can cause rabdomyolysis, destruction of muscle cells. With rabdomyolysis, a large amount of myoglobin is released into the blood, which can damage the kidneys.
It is important to note that the nephrotoxicity of dietary supplements depends on many factors, including a dose, duration of administration, individual susceptibility, the presence of concomitant diseases and interaction with other drugs.
Section 4: specific dietary supplements and their influence on the kidneys
Consider specific examples of dietary supplements that can represent risk to the health of the kidneys:
- Creatine: Creatine is a popular supplement among athletes used to increase muscle mass and increase productivity. Although creatine is usually considered safe for healthy people, its intake in high doses can lead to an increase in the level of creatinine in the blood, which can be erroneously interpreted as a sign of renal failure. In people with already existing kidney diseases, creatine intake can aggravate the condition.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is necessary for the health of the immune system. However, taking high doses of vitamin C (more than 1000 mg per day) can lead to the formation of oxalate of calcium oxalate in the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney stones.
- Plant additives containing aristoloic acid: Aristol -hide acid is a toxic substance contained in some plants of the Aristolochiaceae family. Plant additives containing aristolochic acid were associated with the development of aristol -legged nephropathy, a serious kidney disease, which can lead to renal failure and urinary cancer. Examples of plants containing aristoloic acid include Aristolochia fangchi And Aristolochia clematitis. It is important to avoid the use of any plant additives containing aristoloic acid.
- Protein supplements: High protein consumption, especially from protein additives, can provide an additional load on the kidneys, since they have to filter more protein decay products, such as urea. In people with existing kidney diseases, high protein consumption can accelerate the progression of renal failure.
- Some vitamins and minerals in high doses: Reception of vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as minerals, such as calcium, iron and phosphorus, in excessively high doses can have a negative effect on the kidneys. For example, an excess of calcium can contribute to the formation of kidney stones, and an excess of iron can lead to damage to renal cells.
- Dietary diets for weight loss: Some dietary supplements contain diuretics, stimulants or other substances that can have a negative effect on the kidneys. Diuretics can cause dehydration, and stimulants can increase blood pressure, which can damage the kidneys.
- Bodybuilding additives containing anabolic steroids: Anabolic steroids, often contained in bodybuilding additives, can cause serious kidney problems, including glomerulosclerosis (scarring of renal glomeruli) and renal failure.
- Clenbuterol: Klenbuterol, a drug, which is sometimes used as an additive for losing weight and increasing muscle mass, can cause rabdomyolysis, which, as mentioned earlier, can damage the kidneys.
- Vague plant mixtures: Bades containing complex mixtures of plant components, especially those that do not have a clear marking or do not contain information about the origin of the ingredients, can represent an increased risk of kidney health. Such additives may contain unknown toxins or pollution that can damage the kidneys.
- Bades containing heavy metals: Some dietary supplements, especially those that are produced without proper quality control, may contain heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. Heavy metals have nephrotoxic properties and can cause serious kidney damage.
Section 5: Bades that can be useful for kidneys (with reservations)
Not all dietary supplements are harmful to the kidneys. Some of them can even have a favorable effect on the health of the kidneys, but only under certain conditions and under the strict supervision of a doctor:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil and some vegetable oils have anti-inflammatory properties and can help protect the kidneys from damage caused by inflammation. Some studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can slow down the progression of CBP. However, before the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, you should consult a doctor, especially if you take anticoagulants.
- Curcumin: Kurkumin is an active ingredient in turmeric with powerful antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that Kurkumin can help protect the kidneys from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. However, the bioavailability of curcumin is limited, therefore, to achieve the therapeutic effect, high doses or special forms of curcumin may be required.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is necessary for the health of bones and plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is common among people with kidney diseases and can aggravate the condition. Vitamin D additives can be useful for people with vitamin D deficiency and kidney diseases, but they should be taken under the supervision of a doctor in order to avoid an overdose.
- Probiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms that can have a favorable effect on the intestinal health. Some studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce the level of uremic toxins in the blood in people with CBP. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal strains and doses of probiotics for the treatment of CBP.
- COQ10 (Coanzim Q10): COQ10 is an antioxidant that plays an important role in the production of energy in cells. Some studies have shown that COQ10 can help protect the kidneys from damage caused by oxidative stress. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal COQ10 doses to protect the kidneys.
- Alpha-lipoic acid: Alpha-lipoic acid (Alc) is an antioxidant that can help protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies have shown that Alk can be useful for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy, diseases of the kidney caused by diabetes. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal doses of the ALK for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
It is important to emphasize that even these potentially useful dietary supplements should be taken only under the strict supervision of a doctor, especially people with existing kidney diseases. Bado self -medication can be dangerous and lead to a deterioration in the condition.
Section 6: risk groups and recommendations
Certain groups of people are more susceptible to the negative impact of dietary supplements on the kidneys:
- People with existing kidney diseases: People with HBP or other kidney diseases should be especially caught in the intake of dietary supplements. Their kidneys are already working with increased load, and even slight damage can lead to serious consequences.
- People with diabetes: Diabetes is the main cause of kidney diseases. People with diabetes should carefully monitor the blood sugar level and avoid taking dietary supplements that can aggravate their condition.
- People with high blood pressure: High blood pressure is also a risk factor for kidney disease. People with high blood pressure should monitor their blood pressure and avoid taking dietary supplements that can increase it.
- Elderly people: With age, the function of the kidneys usually decreases. Older people should be particularly careful when taking dietary supplements, since their kidneys can be more vulnerable to damage.
- People taking certain drugs: Some drugs, such as NSAIDs, diuretics and antibiotics, can be toxic for kidneys. People taking these medicines should consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
Recommendations for the safe use of dietary supplements:
- Consult a doctor or a qualified medical specialist before taking any dietary supplements. Discuss your medical conditions, the medicines that you take, and any potential risks and advantages of dietary supplements.
- Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements you accept. This will help them track any potential side effects or interactions with drugs.
- Choose dietary supplements from well -known manufacturers who adhere to high quality standards. Look for products that have been tested by an independent laboratory for cleanliness and compliance of the composition.
- Read the labels carefully and follow the dosage instructions. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Be careful with dietary supplements who promise quick or wonderful results. If it sounds too good to be true, then it is probably so.
- Avoid dietary supplements containing aristoloic acid or other known nephrotoxic substances.
- Stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor if you have any side effects.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and sufficient fluid consumption.
- Pass medical examinations regularly and take tests to control the function of the kidneys, especially if you have risk factors for the development of kidney disease.
Section 7: The importance of regulation and public awareness
The absence of strict regulation of the market of the basket is a serious problem. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials and are not subject to the same control by regulatory authorities. This means that the safety and efficiency of many dietary supplements is not proven or not sufficiently studied. In addition, the quality of dietary supplements can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer and production processes.
More stringent rules are needed to ensure the safety and quality of dietary supplements. This includes:
- The requirement for dietary supplement manufacturers to conduct clinical trials to confirm the safety and efficiency of their products.
- Establishment of quality standards for the production of dietary supplements.
- Strengthening the supervision of the market of dietary supplements to identify and seize unsafe or ineffective products from the market.
- Improving public informing about risks and advantages of admission of dietary supplements.
It is important that consumers are well informed about potential risks and advantages of dietary supplements. They should understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and should not be used to treat or prevent diseases without consulting a doctor. Consumers should also know about potential side effects and drug interactions and should be careful when choosing and using dietary supplements.
Information of the public can be improved by:
- Publishing clear and reliable information about dietary supplements on websites of state health authorities.
- Conducting educational campaigns to increase awareness of risks and advantages of receiving dietary supplements.
- Requirements for dietary supplement manufacturers provide more detailed information about their products, including ingredients, dosage and potential side effects.
- The promotion of doctors and pharmacists to discuss the risks and advantages of taking dietary supplements with their patients.
Section 8: Conclusion on the influence of dietary supplements on the kidneys
The influence of dietary supplements on the health of the kidneys is a complex and multifaceted problem. Although some dietary supplements can be useful for the health of the kidneys under certain conditions and under the strict supervision of a doctor, many others can represent a risk of kidney health, especially for people with existing kidney diseases or other risk factors. It is important to be careful when choosing and using dietary supplements and always consult a doctor or a qualified medical specialist before taking any dietary supplements. Improving the regulation of the market of baskets and informing the public about the risks and advantages of admission of dietary supplements are also necessary to protect the health of the population.
Section 9: Studies and scientific data confirming the above facts.
- Creatine: A study published in American Journal of Kidney Diseasesshowed that taking creatine can increase the level of creatinine in the blood, but does not have a negative effect on the function of the kidneys in healthy people. However, another study published in Clinical Journal of Sport Medicineshowed that taking creatine can aggravate the condition of people with existing kidney diseases.
- Vitamin C: A study published in Journal of the American Society of Nephrologyshowed that taking high doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones.
- Plant additives containing aristoloic acid: Numerous studies published in magazines such as The Lancet And New England Journal of Medicineshowed the relationship between the consumption of plant additives containing aristoloic acid, and the development of aristolochex nephropathy.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Meta-analysis published in American Journal of Clinical Nutritionshowed that omega-3 fatty acids can slow down the progression of CBP.
- Curcumin: A study published in Journal of Renal Nutritionshowed that Kurkumin can help protect the kidneys from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Vitamin D: Review published in Kidney Internationalshowed that vitamin D deficiency is common among people with kidney diseases and can aggravate the condition.
- Probiotics: Meta-analysis published in Nephrology Dialysis Transplantationshowed that probiotics can help reduce the level of uremic toxins in the blood in people with CBP.
It is important to note that additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal doses and dietary supplements to protect the kidneys.
Section 10: Case Stadi and Examples from Practice
- Cais-Stad 1: A 45-year-old man with type 2 diabetes began to take dietary supplements containing diuretics. A few weeks later, he developed acute renal failure, which required hospitalization and dialysis.
- Cais-Stad 2: A 60-year-old woman with HBP took a dietary supplement to strengthen bones containing high doses of calcium. She developed hypercalcemia (a high level of calcium in the blood) and the kidney function worsened.
- Cais-Stad 3: The 30-year-old bodybuilder took a dietary supplement containing anabolic steroids. He developed glomerulosclerosis and renal failure.
These cases emphasize the importance of consulting with a doctor before taking any dietary supplements and the need for careful control of kidney function in people who take dietary supplements.
Section 11: Alternative approaches to maintaining kidney health
Instead of relying on dietary supplements to maintain kidney health, there are safer and more effective alternative approaches:
- Balanced nutrition: Adhere to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit the consumption of salt, sugar, saturated fats and treated foods.
- Regular physical exercises: Do with moderate physical activity of at least 150 minutes a week.
- Sufficient fluid consumption: Drink enough water to maintain adequate hydration.
- Control of blood pressure: Follow your blood pressure and take measures to maintain it within normal limits.
- Blood sugar control: If you have diabetes, thoroughly control the blood sugar.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels in the kidneys.
- Regular medical examinations: Pass medical examinations regularly and take tests to control the kidney function.
Compliance with these simple rules of a healthy lifestyle can help protect your kidneys and reduce the risk of kidney disease.
Section 12: Future research areas
Additional studies are needed for a better understanding of the effect of dietary supplements on the health of the kidneys. Future research should be focused on:
- Identification of specific dietary supplements that represent the greatest risk to the health of the kidneys.
- Determining the mechanisms through which dietary supplements damage the kidneys.
- Development of strategies to prevent and treat renal failure caused by dietary supplements.
- Assessing the effectiveness and safety of potentially useful dietary supplements for kidney health.
The results of these studies will help doctors and consumers make more reasonable decisions on the use of dietary supplements and protect the health of the kidneys.