Can Coffee Cause Kidney Stones? Debunking the Myths with Science and Specialty Coffee Insights

Is your daily coffee habit helping or hurting your kidney health? For those who have experienced the excruciating pain of kidney stones, it's only natural to question everything you consume, including your cherished morning brew. So let’s get to the bottom of it: can coffee cause kidney stones?

This in-depth article explores the relationship between coffee and kidney stone formation, combining the latest clinical research with insights from trusted coffee institutions like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), World Coffee Research, and expert brewing analysis from Barista Hustle. Whether you're a high-caffeine fan or prefer the smooth notes of high-altitude Arabica like Bazan’s Cau Dat, this guide helps you make informed, kidney-smart coffee choices.

What Are Kidney Stones and Why Do They Form?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts, most commonly calcium oxalate, that form inside your kidneys. They're often linked to:

• Dehydration
  

• High oxalate intake
  

• Low calcium diets
  

• High sodium consumption

But does coffee fit into this picture? Let’s explore.

Can Coffee Cause Kidney Stones? What the Research Actually Shows

1. Coffee as a Diuretic: Myth vs. Reality

Coffee contains caffeine, a mild diuretic, meaning it can increase urine output. Some have suggested that this could lead to dehydration, increasing the risk of stone formation.

However, the SCA and Mayo Clinic agree: Moderate coffee intake does not cause dehydration in regular drinkers. The fluid content of coffee more than offsets its mild diuretic effect.

A 2020 study in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that each additional cup of coffee reduced kidney stone risk by 10%, likely due to increased hydration and diuresis.

In short, coffee might actually help flush out the kidneys if consumed correctly.

2. Caffeine and Calcium Excretion

Caffeine can modestly increase calcium excretion in urine, which in theory could contribute to calcium stone formation. However, this effect is mild and usually only a concern in very high doses far above the average daily intake from 1–3 cups.

CQI’s 2022 nutritional impact report confirms: “Coffee consumption within normal dietary levels is not associated with increased urinary calcium sufficient to form stones.”

Bazan’s Fine Robusta – Krong Năng, being higher in caffeine, may be better consumed in moderation or blended (like in Bazan’s Special Vietnam Blend) for those watching calcium intake.

Supporting Topics: Coffee’s Broader Effects on Renal Health

Can Coffee Cause Dehydration and Kidney Stones?

Dehydration is a primary risk factor for kidney stones. While caffeine is a mild diuretic, coffee’s water content outweighs its dehydrating effects, especially when consumed with or after food.

To prevent kidney stones:

• Drink at least 2.5 liters of fluid per day

• Opt for lower sodium diets

• Include calcium-rich foods (to bind oxalate)

Black coffee even strong brews counts toward your fluid intake.

Can Coffee Raise Oxalate Levels?

Oxalate is a naturally occurring compound in many plant-based foods, including spinach, rhubarb, almonds and yes, in trace amounts, coffee. But the oxalate content in coffee is considered minimal, and studies show it does not significantly contribute to urinary oxalate.

A review by The Kidney Stone Dietitian notes that coffee contains less than 1 mg of oxalate per ounce far below risky levels.

Bazan Coffee’s beans, especially Cau Dat Arabica, are washed-processed, which may reduce residual compounds like oxalates in the final brew.

Is Cold Brew Better for Kidney Health?

Yes particularly for sensitive individuals. Cold brew tends to have:

• Lower acidity
  

• Reduced bitterness
  

• Smoother extraction of compounds
  

Barista Hustle’s cold brew studies show that long steeping times at cool temperatures extract fewer oils and soluble compounds that may stress the kidneys.

Bazan recommends cold brewing the Special Vietnam Blend or Cau Dat Arabica for a gentler, kidney-conscious experience.

Summary Table: Coffee & Kidney Stone Risk Factors

Expert Tips: How to Drink Coffee with Kidney Health in Mind

• Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day not just coffee.
  

• Avoid high-sodium foods with coffee (like salted snacks).
  

• Stick to 1–3 cups daily preferably Arabica or blends.
  

• Choose cold brew for a smoother, lower-compound extraction.
  

• Avoid excessive creamers or sugars, which can impact metabolic health.

Conclusion: Coffee and Kidney Stones The Real Story

So, can coffee cause kidney stones? Based on current evidence, the answer is no for most people and possibly even protective. While caffeine and oxalates are part of the kidney stone conversation, the actual risk from coffee consumption is minimal when consumed in moderation.

In fact, coffee can be a valuable part of a kidney-smart lifestyle, thanks to its fluid content and antioxidant benefits.

At Bazan Coffee, we source and roast our beans with your health and taste in mind. Whether you're looking for a low-acid, smooth cup or a bold, high-caffeine kick, we offer options tailored to your body’s needs and your palate’s preferences.

Choose Kidney-Conscious Coffee with Bazan

• Cau Dat Arabica: Smooth, low-acid, low-caffeine – perfect for cold brew.
  

• Special Vietnam Blend: Balanced and versatile, ideal for daily drinking.
  

• Fine Robusta – Krong Năng: Best enjoyed with awareness for caffeine-sensitive individuals.

Protect your kidneys. Enjoy your coffee. Brew smarter only with Bazan Coffee.