Coffee does more than provide a morning caffeine boost. Research suggests that some of its natural compounds may have beneficial effects on the kidneys.

Provides compounds with antioxidant properties

Coffee contains more than 1,000 natural compounds, including chlorogenic acid, polyphenols and melanoidins. These substances have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help limit oxidative stress, a process associated with cell damage, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

These natural compounds, along with caffeine, may account for many of coffee’s potential kidney benefits, according to Verywell Health. Some studies suggest that decaffeinated coffee can still offer benefits from its plant compounds while containing less caffeine.

Coffee contains many plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Illustrative photo by Bao Bao

Reduces the risk of chronic kidney disease

Some studies suggest that regular coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) than people who drink little or none.

In 2018, the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study surveyed about 8,700 people with normal kidney function, with an average follow-up of 11.3 years. People who drank one cup and two or more cups of coffee a day respectively had a 24% and 20% lower risk of developing CKD than non-drinkers. Their glomerular filtration rate also declined more slowly.

Coffee’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds are thought to contribute to this association.

Supports people with kidney disease

Coffee’s kidney benefits are not limited to healthy people. Some data suggests that drinking coffee may be associated with better outcomes in people who already have kidney disease. Among these patients, coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease, protein in the urine and death, according to EatingWell.

Nevertheless, coffee does not replace medication or other treatments for kidney disease. People with CKD still need to manage their blood pressure, blood sugar, and diet, and take medication prescribed by their doctor.

Reduces the risk of kidney stones

Regular coffee consumption may also be associated with a lower risk of kidney stone formation. Coffee can increase urine output, helping dilute and flush out minerals that can crystallize and clump together into stones. Caffeine’s mild diuretic effect contributes to this.

Drinking enough water remains the most important factor in preventing kidney stones, and coffee cannot replace plain water.

How much coffee is appropriate?

Coffee’s benefits depend on how much you drink, how it is prepared and your health. About two to three standard 240-milliliter cups a day may be appropriate for many people, including some with CKD, EatingWell quoted experts as saying. However, the right amount varies from person to person.

Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure, especially when consumed in large quantities at once. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure may need to limit caffeinated coffee to about one to two cups a day and monitor their blood pressure.

It is also advisable to limit added sugar, cream and syrups. A roughly 240-milliliter cup of brewed coffee contains about 100 milligrams of potassium. For people who need to restrict potassium or have high blood potassium levels, this amount can add up over several cups a day.

Overall, coffee can be part of a healthy diet for many people, but it should not be viewed as a beverage that treats or protects the kidneys. People with kidney disease, high blood pressure or a need to control potassium should discuss the appropriate quantity of coffee with their doctor.