18-Year-Old Girl Suffers Kid.ney Failure from 3 Common Eating Habits Among Youth: Doctor Urges 4 Actions to Protect Your Body’s "Blo.od Filter"
These favorite daily habits of many young people are silently destroying their kidneys.
In recent years, kidney disease has become a significant burden on Vietnam’s healthcare system. Alarming statistics show that the number of patients suffering from kidney-related illnesses — from acute glomerulonephritis to chronic kidney failure — is increasing rapidly. Even more concerning is the fact that the age of onset is getting younger.
Kidney Failure at Just 18 Years Old Due to Diet
Dr. Mai Van Luc (Department of Urology and Andrology Surgery, E Hospital) recently shared the case of an 18-year-old girl who was hospitalized with excruciating lower back pain. Tests revealed that she suffered from nephrocalcinosis (kidney calcification) caused by a 4mm ureteral stone, which had blocked her urinary tract and led to serious kidney inflammation. The CT scan showed her kidney had calcified and hardened — essentially turning into "stone" — causing pain that was nearly unbearable.
Doctors discovered that her kidney inflammation was linked to frequent consumption of instant noodles, bubble tea, and a habit of rarely drinking water.
“These are common habits among today’s youth,” said Dr. Luc. “But they are gradually damaging kidney health.”
He warned:
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Instant noodles are high in sodium and additives, placing a huge burden on the kidneys.
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Bubble tea is loaded with sugar and chemicals — a silent threat to your health.
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And not drinking enough water prevents the kidneys from flushing out waste, allowing kidney stones to form and grow.
This young girl's story is a powerful wake-up call. Convenience and satisfying cravings may feel good in the moment — but they come at a serious cost. “Many diseases are hitting younger ages now,” Dr. Luc added. “Kidney stones used to be rare in children, but that’s no longer the case.”
Doctor’s 4-Step Advice to Protect Your Kidneys
In light of the rising number of kidney disease patients — especially among the young — Dr. Luc urges everyone to take action today to protect your kidneys, the vital “blood filters” of your body:
1. Listen to Your Body — Don’t Ignore the Signs
Mild but persistent lower back pain, especially around the sides or waist, could be an early sign of kidney stones. Don’t ignore it. Seek medical attention if you notice:
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Sharp or dull pain in the lower back (one or both sides) that may radiate to the lower abdomen
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Painful, frequent, or difficult urination
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Cloudy, pink, or red urine
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Fever, chills, or nausea accompanying urinary symptoms
Regular check-ups every 6 months are essential for early detection and timely treatment of kidney stones and other conditions.
2. Drink Plenty of Water — The Simplest “Medicine”
This age-old advice remains crucial. Drinking 2–3 liters of water daily helps dilute urine and prevent mineral buildup that forms stones. Prioritize clean water, and consider adding lemon or orange juice to boost citrate — a natural stone inhibitor.
3. Improve Your Diet
Your diet plays a major role in both the formation and recurrence of kidney stones.
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Reduce salt intake: High sodium increases calcium excretion in urine, encouraging stone formation. Avoid processed foods, canned goods, and salty condiments.
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Limit animal protein: Eating too much red meat and organ meats raises uric acid levels in urine, increasing the risk of uric acid stones.
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Watch out for oxalate-rich foods: Spinach, beets, nuts, strong tea, and chocolate are high in oxalates. You don’t need to avoid them completely — just consume in moderation.
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Get calcium from food, not pills: Many believe that avoiding calcium prevents stones, but the opposite is true. A calcium-deficient diet can increase oxalate absorption. Choose natural sources like milk, yogurt, and cheese.
4. Stay Physically Active
A sedentary lifestyle slows urine flow and allows mineral buildup in the kidneys. Regular exercise promotes circulation, encourages urination, and supports overall health. Movement helps prevent stone formation and boosts your body's ability to detoxify.
Protecting Your Kidneys Is Protecting Your Life
Health is your most valuable asset. Don’t let ignorance or carelessness turn your body into a breeding ground for kidney stones. Let this story be a reminder: Love your body, care for it early, and avoid preventable surgeries and complications in the future.
Start today — hydrate, eat smart, move often, and listen to your body. Your kidneys will thank you.