How Can I Reduce My Risk Of Kidney Stones?

Do you drink enough water during the day (6 to 8 glasses of water a day)?

Did you know that if you exercise often or live in a hot climate, you need to increase your daily fluid intake (more than 6 to 8 glasses of water a day) to stay hydrated and produce enough urine?

Have you reduced your intake of oxalate-rich food like rhubarb, beets, okra, spinach, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, nuts, tea, chocolate, black pepper and soy products?

Do you eat a diet low in salt and animal protein?

Do you eat foods rich in calcium?

Do you avoid taking calcium supplements or use them only if you have previously consulted a doctor?

Are you trying to achieve or maintain a healthy weight?

Do you use prescription drugs that can control the amount of minerals and salts in your urine?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you reduce your risk of kidney stones. Increase your fluid intake because drinking enough fluids will not allow minerals in the urine to crystallize and stick together. You should drink about two to three liters of fluid a day, depending on your activity level. You can drink water or lemon drinks such as lemonade or orange juice. Citrus fruits contain citrate which prevents the formation of stones. You should limit your salt intake because sodium stimulates the kidneys to increase calcium excretion, which favors the development of kidney stones.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to reduce your risk of kidney stones. Food rich in oxalates (rhubarb, beets, spinach, sweet potatoes, chocolate) should be eaten in moderation, because oxalates are substances that favor the formation of kidney stones. Also, a diet rich in animal proteins increases the level of uric acid, which additionally contributes to kidney stones. Therefore, you can include more legumes in your diet as a source of protein. Food rich in calcium will usually not increase your risk of kidney stones, but be careful with calcium supplements, and never take them without first consulting a doctor.