FC-0005 · Food28 Sep 2026
Claim
Taking protein powder causes kidney damage.
VerdictDepends
Checked against nih.gov, CDC
For people whose kidneys are healthy, there is no proof that protein powder damages the kidneys. But when the kidneys are already weak, more protein than the body needs makes them work harder and can make the kidney disease worse.
What experts say
- In people whose kidneys are healthy, there is no proof that protein powder or a high-protein diet harms the kidneys.1
- High protein intake can raise the things in urine that help kidney stones form.1
- When the kidneys are already weak, more protein than the body needs makes them work harder and can make the kidney disease worse.2
- In people who already have kidney disease, high protein intake has been linked to dialysis being needed sooner.1
- For people with kidney disease, too little protein is also not good; the right amount matters.2
What to do
- If your kidneys are healthy, you do not need to stop protein powder only out of fear of kidney damage.1
- If you already have kidney disease, or your doctor has told you your kidneys are weak, ask your doctor or dietitian how much protein is right for you before taking protein powder.2
- If you have kidney disease, do not start any supplement or vitamin on your own; talk to your doctor first.2
- If you have kidney disease, eat fresh food cooked at home and cut down on salt as your doctor advises.2
See a doctor if
- Swelling around the eyes or in the legs, arms or belly.2
Sources
- 1Protein intake and risk of urolithiasis and kidney diseases: an umbrella review of systematic reviewsnih.gov
- 2Diabetes and Kidney Disease: What to Eat?cdc.gov
Updated 28 Sep 2026
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