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Is It Safe To Consume Whey Protein While Suffering From Kidney Stones?
Posted on
Tue, 12 May 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 12 May 2015
Answered on
Thu, 28 May 2015
Last reviewed on
Question : Hi,
I would like to know if consuming whey protein is bad for the kidneys. I have a history of kidney stones (I currently have 3 of them, 3 mm to 5mm in size) and am undergoing homeopathic treatment for that. I lift weights and would like to add muscle but due to the fear of kidney stones, I restrict my protein intake. Would it be alright if I took just one scoop of whey protein 3 days a week? I also drink 4 litres of water a day to ensure I stay hydrated.
Regards,
XXXX
I would like to know if consuming whey protein is bad for the kidneys. I have a history of kidney stones (I currently have 3 of them, 3 mm to 5mm in size) and am undergoing homeopathic treatment for that. I lift weights and would like to add muscle but due to the fear of kidney stones, I restrict my protein intake. Would it be alright if I took just one scoop of whey protein 3 days a week? I also drink 4 litres of water a day to ensure I stay hydrated.
Regards,
XXXX
Brief Answer:
Yes it is ok
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for your query.
In my opinion it is ok to take one scoop of whey protein 3 times a week.
To be on the safer side, start with even a lower dose. Maybe take one scoop per week for one month. If it is helping and not making stones worse, increase its dose to 2 scoops per week for one month.
Regarding drinking water, it is advised to drink as guided by the thirst. There is no need to drink excessive water especially by a sportsperson. Sweating causes loss of electrolytes and taking excessive water may make it worse.
Thirdly if you are drinking water to wash out stones, then it is ok.
Dr Vaishalee
Yes it is ok
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for your query.
In my opinion it is ok to take one scoop of whey protein 3 times a week.
To be on the safer side, start with even a lower dose. Maybe take one scoop per week for one month. If it is helping and not making stones worse, increase its dose to 2 scoops per week for one month.
Regarding drinking water, it is advised to drink as guided by the thirst. There is no need to drink excessive water especially by a sportsperson. Sweating causes loss of electrolytes and taking excessive water may make it worse.
Thirdly if you are drinking water to wash out stones, then it is ok.
Dr Vaishalee
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Pradeep Vitta
Answered by
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