Before we get to the list of foods that cause kidney stones, let’s look further into this painful condition. Kidney stones are also known as nephrolithiasis, urolithiasis, and lithiasis. It consists of the formation of calculi or stones in the interior of the kidney. It may also occur in the urinary bladder, but less frequently.
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The calculi or stones form because the substances normally dissolved in the urine precipitate and accumulate in a solid mass. Most calculi are formed of calcium oxalate, magnesium ammonium phosphate, calcium phosphate, or urates. Once you pass the stones and have them analyzed, a specialist can prescribe a more specific diet. Which will most likely exempt foods that cause kidney stones.
Reduce or eliminate the things that cause kidney stones from your diet in this article. Those who have suffered the excruciating pain of kidney stones normally wish to do everything possible to avoid a repeat of the experience. This includes certain modifications to dietary habits such as those described in this article.
Top Kidney Stone Supplements
Foods That Cause Kidney Stones
SALT: High sodium intake with foods increases calcium concentration in the urine. In addition, it fosters the formation of kidney stones while reducing the concentration of citrate, which naturally protects against the formation. It is a well-established fact that reducing salt intake lowers the risk of calcium-based calculi, which are the most common.
PROTEINS: Excessive proteins and table salt, the norm in the Western diet, increase the calcium content in the urine. In addition, it promotes the formation of calcium calculi. Some studies indicate that this effect is more pronounced with animal-based proteins.
DAIRY PRODUCTS: Consumption of copious amounts of dairy products fosters lithiasis because of their rich calcium content. The risk is greater if, as is obligatory in some countries, milk is vitamin D enriched, which increases calcium absorption. Therefore, dairy products are among the top foods that cause kidney stones.
CHEESE: Since cheese is rich in proteins, salts, and calcium, it increases the urinary elimination of this mineral and fosters calculi formation.
MEAT: Meat is rich in purines that transform into uric acid in the body. Also, it increases the risk of forming urate calculi in the urine. Animal proteins, in particular, promote kidney stones. Those suffering from kidney stones should reduce meat consumption. In general, a vegetarian diet is preferable.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES: Alcohol encourages the formation of kidney stones, which is one more reason for abstaining from any alcoholic beverages.
More Foods That Can Cause Kidney Stones
BEER: Beer consumption increases diuresis (urine production), which might seem positive in cases of renal lithiasis. However, a compensatory antidiuretic effect is produced after the initial effect, reducing urine production. The result is that beer increases urine concentration and calculi risk.
COFFEE: Make a conscious effort to avoid coffee! Especially by those with the tendency to form kidney stones, since it fosters it by, among other things, increasing calcium excretion through the urine.
CHOCOLATE: Cocoa and its derivatives, such as chocolate, are rich in oxalic acid and may increase the risk of oxalate calculi. The risk increases significantly when you add cocoa products to calcium-rich milk.
CALCIUM: Consumption of large amounts of calcium can increase the risk of calcium calculi. Certain foods, such as cured cheese and supplements of this mineral, are best avoided. However, it is not appropriate to reduce total calcium consumption. As paradoxical as it may seem, the restriction of calcium intake increases the risk of calculi.
GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES: Avoid Green leafy vegetables that contain a great deal of oxalic acid, such as spinach, rhubarb, chard, and red beets. Especially by those at risk of forming oxalate calculi. Oxalic acid is excreted in the urine as calcium oxalate, a salt that can precipitate and form stones. Only individuals prone to form oxalate calculi must reduce their intake of green, leafy vegetables.
VITAMIN C: Avoid High doses of supplemental vitamin C since it increases the production of the oxalates that cause calculi. The vitamin C normally consumed with fruits and vegetables poses no risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I treat kidney stones with natural remedies?
While natural remedies can’t always dissolve or pass existing stones, they may be helpful in certain situations. They can potentially:
Reduce pain and discomfort: Some remedies, like warm compresses and pain-relieving herbs, can offer temporary relief.
Prevent future stones: By addressing underlying causes like dehydration or dietary factors, natural remedies can help prevent new stones from forming.
What’s the most important natural remedy for kidney stones?
Hydration is key! Aim for at least 2-3 liters of water per day. This dilutes urine and helps flush out stone-forming minerals.
What specific remedies are recommended?
Citrus fruits and juices: Rich in citrate, which may help prevent stones. Lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are good choices.
Apple cider vinegar: It may help dissolve small stones due to its acetic acid content. Dilute 1-2 tablespoons in water and consume before meals.
Basil juice: Studies suggest it may have stone-dissolving properties. Mix 2-3 tablespoons with water twice daily.
Pomegranate juice: Contains antioxidants that may prevent stones. Opt for unsweetened varieties and limit intake to 1 cup per day.
Kidney bean broth: Provides potassium and magnesium, which can help regulate urine composition. Consume 1-2 cups daily.
What dietary changes should I make?
Reduce salt, animal protein, and refined sugar intake. These can increase stone risk.
Limit oxalate-rich foods: Spinach, rhubarb, and beets are examples. Moderation is essential, not complete elimination.
Increase calcium-rich foods: Dairy products, leafy greens, and tofu can help bind oxalate in the gut, preventing stone formation.
When should I see a doctor?
Seek medical attention if:
Pain is severe or unrelieved by home remedies.
Blood is present in your urine.
You have nausea, vomiting, or fever.
You experience difficulty urinating.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. You should not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia Of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia Of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 244-245. [Foods that cause kidney stones]
- National Kidney Foundation: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/kidneystones
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/multimedia/kidney-stones/img-20005738
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-health/home-remedies-for-kidney-stones
- Urology Care Foundation: https://www.urologyhealth.org/educational-resources/kidney-stones
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/kidney-stones
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