For Professionals

Is diet soda bad for your kidneys?

Short answer, no – diet soda is not bad for your kidneys in moderation. However, water is always the preferred choice of beverage.

When you dig deeper it gets a bit more complicated: Many times, people living with kidney disease need to be on a fluid restriction. Diet soda is fluid and thus counted towards your daily total. Water is is also counted, but is necessary for essential body functions. So when on a fluid restriction it is important to choose your fluids wisely.

Also, diet colas, some root beers and orange sodas have phosphoric acid which could increase your phosphorus and require taking more binders. So, treating yourself occasionally to a diet soda is fine, but it’s beneficial to make water your drink of choice.

Dietitian

Carolyn Feibig, MS, RD, LD, CCTD

Disclaimer

Kidney Kitchen is not designed to diagnose disease or prescribe an eating plan for your stage of kidney disease. The information shared on Kidney Kitchen is developed by experts in renal nutrition and is provided for informational purposes only. The American Kidney Fund, its staff, agents and Trustees are not able to provide medical advice. Please consult with a medical professional or registered dietitian for specific questions you may have about your diet. Learn more

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