Commercially produced iced tea can harm your kidneys

The summer months encourage a desire to drink more fluids, and many people opt for bottled iced tea. It seems refreshing and healthy, especially compared to soda or beer. However, scientists warn that excessive consumption of such beverages can be hazardous to health.

The main problem is the high content of oxalates, substances that can cause kidney stones. Regular brewed tea contains much less of these compounds, and when consumed in moderation, they pose no serious threat. Commercially produced beverages concentrate these compounds to a much greater degree.

People already predisposed to kidney stones are particularly vulnerable. Combined with dehydration, which often occurs in hot weather due to sweating, the risk of stone formation increases dramatically. Lack of fluid makes urine more concentrated, and oxalates precipitate more quickly.

Medical experts recommend caution when choosing beverages in the summer. Dr. John Milner of Loyola University notes that while many consider iced tea a safe alternative to other sweet drinks, it can actually have the opposite effect, putting strain on the kidneys.

It's much safer to quench your thirst with plain water. For added flavor, you can use fresh lemon slices. The citrates found in real citrus fruits help prevent stone formation and even slow the progression of kidney stones in those predisposed.

Furthermore, ready-made iced tea contains a lot of sugar, which reduces its thirst-quenching ability and contributes to weight gain. Therefore, it's wiser to choose water and natural flavors over commercially prepared drinks with artificial flavors.