Nutritional and Non-Nutritional Strategies in Bodybuilding: Impact on Kidney Function

Victoria Tidmas, Jon Brazier, Janine Hawkins, Scott C. Forbes, Lindsay Bottoms and Ken Farrington
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Victoria Tidmas: Centre for Research in Psychology and Sports Science, De Havilland Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9EU, UK
Jon Brazier: Centre for Research in Psychology and Sports Science, De Havilland Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9EU, UK
Janine Hawkins: Centre for Health Services and Clinical Research, De Havilland Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9EU, UK
Scott C. Forbes: Department of Physical Education Studies, Brandon University, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9, Canada
Lindsay Bottoms: Centre for Research in Psychology and Sports Science, De Havilland Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9EU, UK
Ken Farrington: Centre for Health Services and Clinical Research, De Havilland Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9EU, UK

IJERPH, 2022, vol. 19, issue 7, 1-14

Abstract: Bodybuilders routinely engage in many dietary and other practices purported to be harmful to kidney health. The development of acute kidney injury, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis (FSGS) and nephrocalcinosis may be particular risks. There is little evidence that high-protein diets and moderate creatine supplementation pose risks to individuals with normal kidney function though long-term high protein intake in those with underlying impairment of kidney function is inadvisable. The links between anabolic androgenic steroid use and FSGS are stronger, and there are undoubted dangers of nephrocalcinosis in those taking high doses of vitamins A, D and E. Dehydrating practices, including diuretic misuse, and NSAID use also carry potential risks. It is difficult to predict the effects of multiple practices carried out in concert. Investigations into subclinical kidney damage associated with these practices have rarely been undertaken. Future research is warranted to identify the clinical and subclinical harm associated with individual practices and combinations to enable appropriate and timely advice.

Keywords: bodybuilding; kidney function; nutritional supplements; androgenic steroids; hypervitaminosis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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