Does Coffee Cause Kidney Stones? What You Need to Know

Does Coffee Cause Kidney Stones? What You Need to Know

Does Coffee Cause Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in the urine crystallise. Many people wonder whether drinking coffee contributes to this painful condition.

The answer isn’t straightforward: moderate coffee consumption is generally not a direct cause of kidney stones, and in some cases, it may even be protective.

How Coffee Affects Kidney Health

1. Caffeine and Calcium Excretion

Caffeine slightly increases calcium excretion in urine. For those prone to calcium-based kidney stones, excessive coffee could theoretically contribute to risk, though studies show moderate intake is unlikely to be harmful.

2. Coffee as a Diuretic

Coffee can increase urine output, which might help flush minerals that form stones. Staying hydrated is key, so black coffee can actually aid in reducing kidney stone risk if water intake is sufficient.

For more on caffeine’s effects, see:

Tips to Minimise Kidney Stone Risk

Even if you love coffee, there are ways to reduce stone formation risk:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water alongside your coffee.

  • Moderation is Key: Limit to 2–3 cups daily for most people.

  • Watch Added Ingredients: Milk and sugar don’t directly cause stones, but high sodium diets can.

Coffee Types and Kidney Health

You can still enjoy a variety of coffees safely:

Decaf Coffee and Kidney Stones

For those concerned about caffeine’s effect on calcium excretion, decaf coffee may be a safer option. Our range includes:

Decaf maintains the flavour without the same caffeine impact on calcium metabolism.

Bottom Line

Moderate coffee consumption is unlikely to cause kidney stones in healthy adults. Staying hydrated, enjoying coffee in moderation, and monitoring your diet are the best strategies. Coffee lovers can continue to enjoy their daily cup while supporting kidney health.

Explore our full coffee collection here:

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