Prevent Kidney Stones Naturally

The 411 On Kidney Stones

Urine naturally contains minerals and salts. When the urine is concentrated with these compounds it can cause hard stones to form in the kidneys (hence the name kidney stones). Once the kidney stones begin to move into the ureter towards the bladder, that kidney stone is now called a ureteral stone and it’s trying to make its way down the urinary tract to pass.

Not all do.

And those that do often cause a painful journey with intense pain, nausea, vomiting and other kidney stone symptoms that may land you in the ER. 

It is estimated that about one in ten people will have a kidney stone at some time in their lives. The risk of kidney stones is 11% in men and 9% in women. Other diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity may increase the risk for kidney stones.

There is no dietary fix to “get rid of” kidney or ureteral stones that have already formed. However, there are some dietary and lifestyle tips to keep in mind to help you prevent stones if you’ve ever had on or not.

• Drink three liters of water a day. Reduce salt in your diet.
• Consume five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
• Eat less animal protein.
• Get the recommended amount of calcium in your diet a day.
• Moderate the amount of oxalate rich foods in your diet.
• Add a little citrate. Lemon juice concentrate (4 oz per day) mixed with water
• Keep the weight off. Obesity puts you at greater risk for kidney stones.

Can Stress Cause Kidney Stones? 

There are a lot of lifestyle factors that can contribute to one’s likelihood of getting kidney stones. Stress can cause a lot of unhealthy habits that can lead to a kidney stone, so it could be said that stress is an indirect cause of kidney stones. When people get stressed, they sorties drink more coffee, sleep less, consume more alcohol and fatty foods etc. People also typically drink less water, which can exacerbate the issue and cause chronic dehydration. These are all huge risk factors for kidney stone formation. 

If you have had kidney stones, are concerned you may have one or just want more information contact Austin Urology Institute for a consultation with a provider and a nutritionist.