Approximately 1 in 10 people get affected with kidney stones during their life. A kidney stone causes severe pain and discomfort to the patient. In this blog, Dr. Deepesh Kalra shares valuable information regarding kidney stones, how to prevent them, and foods to avoid if you have a kidney stone.
Why Do Kidney Stones Occur?
An imbalance of minerals and other substances forms multiple crystals in the urine and these crystals clump together and harden into stones in the kidney. Here are a few factors that increase the risk of kidney stones:
- Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of kidney stone formation.
- A family history or genetics can lead to kidney stones.
- Some foods can increase the risk of kidney stones.
- Regular consumption of certain medicines can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.
- Some medical conditions like urinary tract infections, and hyperparathyroidism can lead to kidney stones.
Read the top 5 early warning signs of kidney disease.
What to Eat to Prevent Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones can be easily cured and prevented by making smart dietary choices. The right foods and beverages can help reduce your risk by balancing the levels of minerals and substances in your urine. Below we have mentioned the diet to prevent kidney stones.
Drink Plenty of Water
Stay well hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water in a day. Water helps dilute the substances in urine that can form stones. By drinking 8–10 glasses of water a day, the substances are flushed with urine before they crystallize.
Increase the Intake of Citrus Food
Citrus food contains a compound that helps prevent kidney stones. It binds with calcium in the urine reducing the risk of kidney stone formation. Eat citrus food like oranges and grapefruit and drink lemon water or juice daily.
Eat Calcium-Rich Foods
Calcium binds with oxalate in the digestive tract to prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted by the kidneys. Eat food that is rich in calcium like milk, yoghurt, cheese, broccoli, kale or green leafy vegetables.
Eat Fruits & Veggies
Fruits and vegetables are rich in water, fibre, and essential nutrients that help prevent kidney stones. Incorporate all the fruits and veggies in your diet to be healthy. They also contain magnesium and potassium, which help balance calcium levels in the body.
Choose Whole Grains
Whole grains are a good source of fibre, which helps lower the amount of calcium in the urine and reduce the risk of kidney stones. Add whole grains, wheat breads, oats, and brown rice to your diet.
Include Foods Rich in Magnesium
Intake of magnesium-rich food prevents the risk of kidney stones by inhibiting crystal formation in the urine. Eat spinach, nuts, seeds, and whole grains to support your kidney health.
Moderate Your Protein Intake
Diets that are high in protein can increase the risk of kidney stones, particularly uric acid stones. Add lentils, tofu and quinoa to have a protein-rich diet. It’s important to consume protein in moderation and choose plant-based sources when possible.
Don’t Eat These Foods if You Are Suffering From Kidney Stones
Some foods can help you prevent kidney stones but certain foods can also increase the risk. If you are prone to kidney stones, you must avoid the consumption of these:
Foods High in Oxalate
Oxalate binds with calcium in your urine to form stones. Reduce the intake of foods that are high in oxalate like spinach, beets, nuts, chocolate, and tea.
Excessive Animal Protein
Consumption of animal protein in excess amounts can increase the uric acid level and reduce the citrate level in the body, leading to stone formation. Avoid eating red meat, eggs, seafood, and poultry products.
Sugary Foods and Drinks
High intake of sugar can lead to obesity and diabetes, both of which can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. It’s better to avoid excess consumption of sweetened beverages, soda, and desserts.
Intake of Excess Sodium
An excess amount of sodium increases the amount of calcium in urine, leading to stone formation. Avoid the excess consumption of sodium or salt in your food.
Processed Foods
Packaged items like fast food, snacks, and pre-made meals are high in sodium and unhealthy fats, contributing to kidney stone formation.
Treatments Offered to Remove Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can be treated and cured. There are multiple treatment options available to remove kidney stones and alleviate symptoms. Here are the treatments offered by a urologist:
- Medication
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
- Ureteroscopy
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
- Parathyroid Surgery
Conclusion
We have covered everything about what you need to eat to prevent kidney stones and the foods you should avoid. Making informed dietary choices and understanding effective treatment can significantly reduce risk and help you manage kidney stones. For personalised advice and expert care in preventing and treating kidney stones, consult with Dr. Deepesh Kalra, a well-known urologist in Jaipur. With years of experience and a commitment to patient well-being, Dr. Kalra offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your requirements. Schedule your consultation today to take the first step towards a stone-free future.
