If you regularly consume gym supplements or bodybuilding products, such as protein shakes, creatine, pre-workout formulas, or fat burners, it is important to have your kidneys tested every 6 months.
Some supplements can put extra pressure on the kidneys, disrupt hydration balance, or even cause mild stress, especially with high-protein diets and inadequate water intake.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Yogesh Kumar Chhabra, director and unit head of nephrology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, shared a few blood tests you should consider if gym supplements are part of your routine. Also read | Nephrologist suggests 6 everyday habits to keep kidneys healthy: ‘Eat a diet low in salt…’
1. Serum creatinine
Dr Yogesh said, “Serum creatinine is one of the crucial indicators of the activity of your kidneys. High levels of serum creatinine may mean poor performance of the kidney’s filter.” However, creatinine levels can increase in people with a muscular constitution and during high-intensity physical exercise.
2. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
According to Dr Yogesh, it is used to test the level of nitrogen concentration in your blood, which is produced by the decomposition of proteins in your body. High BUN levels may indicate kidney strain, dehydration, or excessive protein and supplement intake.
3. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)
Dr Yogesh highlighted that this is a mathematical estimate based on serum creatinine level, age, and gender. It provides an overview of renal functioning. Decreasing eGFR is a primary indicator of kidney problems.
4. Electrolytes in blood serum (sodium, potassium, and chloride)
The kidneys regulate electrolyte balance. Electrolyte imbalances could indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration, which are common during intense physical activity and supplementation.
5. Serum uric acid
“High levels of uric acid may indicate kidney stress, dehydration, or protein intake. High uric acid levels may also cause kidney stones in some cases,” Dr Yogesh told HT Lifestyle.
6. Urine protein creatinine ratio (UPCR)
UPCR is a significant test for detecting the presence of protein in the urine, indicative of possible kidney damage. The function of a healthy kidney is to filter excess protein from the blood and retain it in the body. An elevated protein-to-creatinine ratio may suggest kidney damage.
Important tips to remember
Dr Yogesh warned that gym users must protect their kidneys by staying hydrated. They should avoid taking too much protein since high protein consumption puts strain on the kidneys, particularly when the person works out.
He also added that one should never depend on supplements for proteins since they have other effects. One should always combine protein with fibres, fruits, and veggies, and avoid NSAIDs as they put pressure on the kidneys.
Myths about proteins
Dr Yogesh also stated that too much protein will not cause kidney failure in a person without such a medical condition. Too much protein will not automatically lead to building more muscle in a person; it all depends on training. Whole food proteins are just as effective as supplements.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
