Joint Influence of Protein Supplements, Soft Drinks and Extreme Physical Activity on the Development of Acute Renal Failure and Hypokalemia

Abstract

We present a case of a 33-year-old man who complained of weakness, fever and decreased urination. A personal history revealed a consumption of creatine, protein supplements, soft-drinks containing caffeine and stevia, and extreme physical activity which included lifting of heavy weights. The patient developed anuria, uraemia, fatigue, rhabdomyolysis and paradoxical hypokalaemia. After the patient had seven successive dialysis treatments, normal kidney function was restored. The report presents the first case of acute renal injury followed by hypokalaemia due to the combined action of the excessive consumption of supplements, soft-drinks with stevia and caffeine, and extreme physical activity.