Does whey protein affect the kidneys?
Last Updated: 02.07.2025 09:42
Hi all,
I’ve heard this questions now so many time now and I, myself was once the victim of this fear. But there’s nothing wrong in being concern over your health before taking anything into your body.
Whey protein, for most people with healthy kidneys, doesn’t really cause any issues.
I’ll try to clear you doubts on this.
Too much protein can make the kidneys work harder and could speed up kidney damage in people with conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD).
A study in the *American Journal of Kidney Diseases* found that high-protein diets might worsen kidney problems in those with CKD.
However, if you already have kidney disease, that’s a different story.
Research shows that when consumed in moderation, it’s generally safe and doesn’t harm kidney function. Your kidneys do filter waste from your blood, and while high protein intake can increase their workload a bit, there's no strong evidence that moderate whey protein consumption harms them.
If your kidneys are healthy, you’re good to go with moderate whey protein. But if you're worried about potential risks, it's always a good idea to choose a high-quality whey protein. Higher-quality proteins, like those with minimal additives, artificial ingredients, and cleaner filtration methods, can be easier on your body overall.
And of course, if you have any kidney concerns or are planning to increase protein intake significantly, it’s always smart to check with a healthcare professional.