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Life Tips 09/07/2025 22:34

A 22-year-old man developed k!dney failure, fa:tty l!ver, and gout simultaneously, regretting drinking one type of beverage for four years.

A 22-year-old young man named Wang Yi, from Taiwan (China), went for a check-up and was unexpectedly diagnosed with kidney failure, fatty liver disease, and gout.
Dr. Hong Vinh Tuong, a nephrology specialist at Tam Quan General Hospital in Taiwan, recently shared a troubling case that highlights the hidden dangers of an unhealthy lifestyle.

“Most people know that a high-salt diet puts stress on the kidneys,” Dr. Tuong said. “But what’s less understood is that excessive sugar intake can be just as harmful.”

His patient, a 22-year-old named Wang Yi, sought medical attention after returning to his family home in Taipei and was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney failure, fatty liver, and gout — a triple blow that shocked both him and his family.
A Worrying Health Decline
Wang had recently graduated from university and moved back home. During his four years away at school, he rarely visited and kept in touch with his parents only by phone. As a result, his parents had no idea about the steady decline in his health.
Upon his return, his mother noticed a significant increase in his weight, prompting concern and urging him to get a full medical checkup. The test results revealed stage 4 kidney failure — a devastating discovery for the young man and his family.
Dr. Tuong explained that Wang had a history of mild glomerulonephritis (a form of kidney inflammation) in high school, but at the time, he managed it well through treatment and dietary changes.
However, once away at college, Wang’s health habits deteriorated. He developed a habit of consuming sugary beverages regularly — around 4 to 5 cups per week — and often ate greasy fast foods. Over the course of four years, he gained 20 kg (about 44 pounds).

“While high sodium intake is harmful, diets high in sugar and fat can be just as detrimental to kidney function,” Dr. Tuong emphasized.

The Bigger Picture: Metabolic Risk Factors
Frequent consumption of sugary drinks and fatty foods contributes to metabolic imbalances that increase the likelihood of obesity and type 2 diabetes. These conditions can damage blood vessels — including those in the kidneys — and accelerate kidney disease.
“Research has shown that drinking sugary beverages more than three times a week can raise the risk of future kidney damage,” Dr. Tuong added.
After learning about the root causes of his condition, Wang expressed deep regret for his poor eating habits, realizing they had played a significant role in the severe damage to his kidneys.
Expert Advice: Habits That Help Protect Kidney Health
Using Wang’s case as a cautionary tale, Dr. Tuong offered key recommendations for maintaining kidney health:
1. Prioritize a Nutritious Diet
A balanced diet is essential. Dr. Tuong advises increasing fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while cutting back on salty, greasy, and sugary foods and drinks. A proper diet helps minimize stress on the kidneys and supports overall wellness.
2. Stay Properly Hydrated
Every major organ in the human body — including the kidneys, liver, blood vessels, and skin — requires water to function effectively. Inadequate water intake reduces urine output, impairing the body’s ability to eliminate toxins. Over time, this puts extra strain on the kidneys.
For healthy adults, it’s recommended to drink between 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily to help organs operate efficiently and reduce the risk of kidney complications.
3. Exercise in Moderation
Regular physical activity helps regulate body weight, maintain healthy blood pressure, and lower blood lipid levels. These are all crucial in preventing kidney damage. Moderate, consistent exercise can go a long way in supporting your long-term health.
Wang Yi’s story is a sobering reminder that youth does not guarantee good health — and that dietary habits formed in early adulthood can have serious, even life-threatening consequences. With mindful eating, hydration, and exercise, it’s possible to protect your kidneys and prevent chronic illnesses before they start.

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