Can Energy Drinks Cause Kidney Stones?

With dozens of varieties available today, energy drinks are a popular way for people to get a boost of energy in a convenient package. However, there are many potential risks associated with consuming these beverages frequently. While each product is different, energy drinks typically contain ingredients like caffeine, sugar, sodium, and taurine. When it comes to kidney stones, it's the sodium you want to watch out for. According to Verywell Health, a diet high in sodium can increase your risk of developing kidney stones, and many energy drinks are high in sodium. You can decrease your risk by drinking plenty of water every day and indulging in energy drinks sparingly.

Energy drinks also contain high levels of caffeine, which can act as a diuretic and cause increased urination. This can lead to dehydration, which can in turn lead to the formation of kidney stones (via The National Kidney Foundation). In addition, many energy drinks contain large amounts of sugar, which can also contribute to dehydration and the formation of kidney stones.

Kidney stones are one of the most common urinary tract disorders. There are several different types of kidney stones, but the most common type is made up of calcium oxalate crystals. Kidney stones develop when there is an imbalance in the normal levels of water, salt, and minerals in the urine (via Mayo Clinic). This can happen when there are too many minerals in the urine or not enough water to dilute them.

Kidney stones are more likely to develop if you have a family history of the condition or if you have certain medical conditions such as gout or Crohn's disease. Other risk factors include being obese, dehydrated, or taking certain medications such as diuretics or calcium-based antacids. There are several different treatment options for kidney stones, depending on the size and type of stone. In some cases, the stone may pass out of the body on its own. If the stone is too large to pass naturally, it may need to be broken up with shock wave lithotripsy or removed surgically. Smaller stones can be treated with medications that help to relax the muscles in the urinary tract and allow the stone to pass more easily.