When you’re living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), what you drink matters—not just what you eat. Beverages can affect blood sugar, blood pressure, hydration, and mineral balance, all of which play an important role in kidney health and disease progression.

While no single drink causes or cures CKD, some beverages are consistently linked to faster kidney function decline, while others can support overall health when chosen wisely.*

Why Beverages Matter in CKD

Your kidneys help regulate fluid balance, filter waste, and manage minerals like phosphorus and potassium. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), dietary habits, including beverage intake, can influence how quickly CKD progresses and how well symptoms are managed.

Drinks high in sugar, additives, or phosphorus can:

• Worsen diabetes and insulin resistance
• Increase blood pressure
• Raise the risk of kidney stones
• Disrupt mineral balance in later stages of CKD

Understanding which beverages to limit (and which to favor) can help protect kidney function over time.

The Worst Beverages for Kidney Health

1. Sugar-Sweetened Sodas

Sugar-sweetened sodas are consistently associated with poorer kidney outcomes. Research has shown that frequent consumption of sugary beverages is linked to:

• Increased risk of CKD development
• Faster decline in kidney function
• Worsening diabetes, a major cause of CKD

These drinks provide large amounts of added sugar without nutritional benefit and can contribute to inflammation and metabolic stress.

2. Dark-Colored Colas (Regular and Diet)

Dark colas often contain phosphoric acid, which has been associated with:

• Increased urinary changes that promote kidney stones
• Higher phosphorus intake, which can be problematic in CKD

Importantly, this concern applies to both regular and diet colas. Even without sugar, the phosphorus additives may still pose risks for kidney health.

3. Diet Sodas and Artificially Sweetened Drinks

While diet sodas eliminate sugar, observational studies have found associations between frequent intake of artificially sweetened beverages and declining kidney function over time. The American Society of Nephrology has highlighted concerns about habitual consumption, especially when intake exceeds one to two servings daily.

The exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, but moderation is advised—especially for people with CKD.

4. Energy Drinks

Energy drinks often combine:

• High caffeine levels
• Added sugars or artificial sweeteners
• Phosphorus-containing additives

This combination can raise blood pressure, disrupt hydration, and increase kidney stress, making them a poor choice for kidney health.

Better Beverage Choices for Kidney Health

Hydration is important, but how you hydrate matters. The following options are generally considered more kidney-friendly for many people with CKD (depending on stage and individual needs).

Water (Plain or Lightly Flavored)

Water remains the best overall choice for hydration. If plain water is hard to enjoy, adding a small amount of lemon or lime, cucumber, or low-glycemic fruits (in moderation) can improve flavor without excessive sugar.

Unsweetened Tea

Unsweetened green or black tea may offer antioxidants and hydration benefits. These are generally safe in moderation unless fluid or potassium restrictions apply.

Black Coffee (in Moderation)

Moderate coffee intake has not been shown to worsen kidney function in most people and may even be associated with lower CKD risk in some studies. Avoid high-sugar creamers and flavored syrups.

Sparkling Water (Without Added Sugar or Phosphorus)

Plain sparkling water can be a good alternative to soda—as long as it does not contain added sugars, sodium, or phosphorus additives.

Low-Sugar Smoothies (With Guidance)

Smoothies can be nutritious, but ingredients matter. Some fruits and additives may be high in potassium or phosphorus. A renal dietitian can help tailor smoothie choices to your CKD stage.

One Important Reminder

There is no universal “kidney-safe” beverage list. Fluid needs and restrictions vary based on:

• CKD stage
• Dialysis status
• Blood pressure
• Heart health
• Potassium and phosphorus levels

Before making major changes, talk with your care team or a renal dietitian to ensure your beverage choices align with your specific health needs.

*National Kidney Foundation. (March 2025). “Healthy Hydration for Your Kidneys: What to Sip and What to Skip” kidney.org

The information provided by Responsum Health is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment or care. Responsum Health does not endorse specific treatments, providers, or products.