Across gyms and fitness centers in India and abroad, a growing trend of excessive supplement use—particularly protein powders and creatine—is raising serious health concerns among doctors. Increasingly, nephrologists and general physicians are reporting a surge in kidney-related complications among young adults, many of whom are devoted gym-goers chasing rapid muscle gain.
In cities like Hyderabad, doctors have seen a sharp uptick in patients aged 16 to 25 presenting with elevated creatinine levels and uric acid—key indicators of kidney dysfunction. In one alarming case, a 25-year-old man was rushed to the hospital with dangerously high creatinine levels of 25 mg/dL—nearly 20 times the upper limit of normal. His kidneys had suffered severe damage, requiring dialysis. A biopsy revealed that the tiny filtering units of the kidneys, known as nephrons, had sustained irreversible stress—likely due to the combination of excessive protein intake and self-prescribed painkillers often recommended by unqualified gym trainers.
The underlying issue lies in the unregulated consumption of dietary supplements, often without proper hydration, medical supervision, or awareness of individual health risks. While both protein and creatine are widely accepted as effective performance enhancers in fitness circles, their misuse is becoming a silent epidemic. Many gym-goers treat these supplements as harmless additions to their regimen, unaware that they may be placing enormous strain on their kidneys—especially when taken in high doses or mixed with other substances like over-the-counter painkillers.
Creatine, for instance, has long been celebrated for its benefits in improving muscle strength and endurance. Scientific studies have shown that when taken within recommended dosages, it is generally safe for healthy individuals. However, isolated case studies have reported acute kidney damage in users who followed even standard supplementation protocols. Though rare, such events raise questions about how individual health conditions, dehydration, and the cumulative effect of high-protein diets may interact negatively with creatine.
Protein powders, on the other hand, are even more problematic. Beyond overconsumption, concerns also revolve around quality control. Many commercially available protein supplements contain additives, sweeteners, or even heavy metals, all of which can contribute to kidney stress. Moreover, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently revised its dietary guidelines, lowering the recommended protein allowance to about 0.83 g per kilogram of body weight per day, citing concerns about excessive intake leading to bone mineral loss and kidney overload.
Experts emphasize that the kidneys are highly adaptable organs, capable of handling increased metabolic waste under normal conditions. However, consistent overuse of supplements—particularly in individuals with pre-existing or undiagnosed kidney issues—can cause lasting harm. Dehydration, a common issue among heavy gym-goers who sweat profusely but may not replenish fluids adequately, further compounds the problem.
Doctors are urging caution and recommending that fitness enthusiasts avoid blindly following gym culture fads or supplement trends without medical consultation. They advise regular health checkups, including kidney function tests, especially for those engaging in intense workouts and supplementation. While creatine and protein powders can be beneficial tools when used responsibly, they are not substitutes for balanced nutrition and proper medical guidance.
Ultimately, the drive for a sculpted physique should not come at the cost of vital organs. In the race for gains, health must remain the top priority.
