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Kidney stones are increasingly prevalent in today's United States. This condition occurs when urine becomes concentrated, causing minerals to crystallise and stick together, resulting in the accumulation of crystal-forming substances inside the kidneys.
Several symptoms are linked to this condition such as severe pain in the back, side, abdomen, or groyne, nausea and vomiting, blood in the urine, frequent urination, and difficulty urinating. The most common factors that can lead to this condition include dehydration, high intake of sodium, protein, or oxalate-rich foods (such as spinach, nuts, and chocolate, obesity and infections as well.
Factors that can lead to the development of kidney stones are so common that they can be easily overlooked in today’s modern world. Therefore it is essential to check on routine diet habits. Read along to know what dietary modifications can help you get relief from the symptoms of kidney stones and lower their risks.
Know What 8 Dietary Restrictions You Need To Stick By
1) Stay Hydrated
First and foremost, it is very necessary to stay hydrated to avoid kidney stones from occurring. Water dilutes minerals and vitamins in urine which prevents them from crystallising and accumulating in kidneys. A study published in the Turkish Journal of Urology in 2020 talks about the importance of fluid intake in the prevention of kidney stone disease. The findings suggest that juices of grapefruit, apple, and orange can reduce calcium saturation in urine and help with kidney stones. It is also recommended to drink 8-10 glasses of water every day.
2) Limit Oxalate-Rich Foods
Foods like nuts, peanuts, rhubarb, spinach, and wheat bran contain high amounts of oxalate. Oxalates, also known as oxalic acid salts, are compounds found naturally in many plants. They are formed by the combination of oxalic acid with various minerals, primarily calcium, potassium, and sodium. When the levels of oxalate are high, their minerals can bind together and can potentially lead to the development of kidney stones. A study published in Clinical Nutrition Research in 2015 deduced the exact effect of oxalate-rich foods on kidney stones. For that reason, it is essential to refrain from these foods in a regular diet.
3) Restrain from Sodium
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Sodium (Na) is a part of salt (NaCl) which can contribute to the excessive excretion of calcium in urine by sodium for calcium in the renal tubules. This can lead to the formation of crystals in the urine and eventually lead to the development of kidney stones. To limit sodium intake, it is necessary to avoid canned and packaged foods that generally contain high amounts of salt. A study published in the Journal of Urology in 2014 examined the impact of Nutritional Factors on the formation of Kidney stones. The study elaborately deduced that excess sodium intake is believed to lead to the risk of hypercalciuria and may increase the risk of nephrolithiasis.
4) Increase Calcium Intake
Eating calcium-rich foods can help in reducing the risks of Kidney Stones. It is because calcium binds with oxalates in the intestines reducing its absorption in the bloodstream and it subsequently gets excreted by the kidneys. As there’s less oxalate to be filtered by kidneys, the risk of it accumulating in the kidneys also lowers. A study published in the Journal of Translational Andrology and Urology in 2014 talks about the importance of calcium intake in urinary stone disease. Studies show that eating enough calcium-rich foods can actually help prevent kidney stones. Calcium may be best obtained via low-oxalate plant-based foods such as calcium-fortified drinks, cereals, breads, some vegetables, and certain beans.
5) Consume Protein Moderately
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Eating animal protein can increase the chances of crystal development in the kidneys. High protein diets especially rich in animal proteins can increase the excretion of calcium in uric acid. It also reduces citrate levels and can contribute to dehydration which increases the risks of kidney stone formation. A study published in Nutrients Journal in 2020 suggests that high dietary content of non-dairy animal proteins along with low-alkaline food can be harmful contributors to kidney stones which causes a negative calcium balance, low urinary pH and low urinary excretions of citrate, potassium, and magnesium. Consequently, it is necessary to refrain from animal protein and stick to plant-based proteins like legumes, soy, cashews, walnuts, pistachios and almonds.
6) Eat Adequate Fruits And Vegetables
Water-rich fruits, citrus fruits, berries, apples, pears and low-oxalate vegetables like cucumbers, lettuce, zucchini, bell peppers, and cauliflower are beneficial in getting relief from kidney stones. The high water and fibre content keeps the urine diluted and promotes regular bowel movements. These foods are also known as a source of citrate which binds calcium to oxalate. Additionally, the acidic nature of citrus fruits has an alkalising effect on urine pH which reduces the formation of crystals in the kidneys.
7) Reduce Intake Of Purine-Rich Foods
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Purine is a natural substance found in certain foods and human bodies which is important for the formation of DNA. When our bodies break down purines, they make a substance called uric acid. Too much uric acid can cause health problems like gout or kidney stones in some people. Thus it is suggested to limit the intake of purine-rich foods. Some examples of purine-rich foods include red meats, organ meats, seafood, spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, lentils, chickpeas, beer and spirits.
8) Limit Intake Of Sugary Beverages
Consumption of sugary beverages can cause several health issues that can eventually lead to the development of kidney stones. Sugary beverages like soda, energy drinks, sweetened juices, sweetened coffee beverages and sports drinks can contribute to dehydration and increased calcium excretion. Sugary beverages also contain high fructose content that has been associated with an increased risk of kidney stone formation as they raise uric acid levels in the blood and urine, promoting the formation of uric acid stones. Sugar also leads to weight gain which is one of the key factors of kidney stones.
While kidney stones are a common occurrence, it is a completely treatable disease that can be avoided with a healthy diet. Make sure to follow these guidelines and consult your physician as well.
