The deposits that shape inside the kidneys from minerals and salts are known as the kidney stones. These kidney stones can cause intense ache and pain, and cause complications if it’s not treated properly. One of the best strategies that will help you avoid kidney stones is through making good dietary changes. Understanding what to consume and what to keep away from can play a vital feature in reducing the danger of kidney stone formation. In this blog by Sugam hospital, the best urology hospital in Chennai, we explain the role of diet in preventing kidney stones through your diet and lifestyle changes.

Understanding Kidney Stones

Before you go into the dietary plan, it is vital to know what kidney stones are and the way they’re formed. Kidney stones generally formed while some substances within the urine become concentrated to shape crystals. Over time, these crystals can grow larger and form stones.

Foods to Include in Your Diet

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are rich in citrate which is a mineral that prevents kidney stone formation. This mineral binds to calcium within the urine which lowers the chance of calcium stone formation. An easy way to increase citrate consumption is to add a touch of lemon or lime juice to your water.

Calcium-Rich Foods

Nutritional calcium isn’t the enemy of kidney stones. In fact, consuming adequate quantities of calcium-rich elements can help prevent stones. Dietary calcium binds with oxalate within the intestines, stopping it from being absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted within the urine, in which it is able to form stones. 

Whole Grains

Whole grains are good sources of magnesium, a mineral that prevents the formation of calcium oxalate stones. Whole grains additionally sell kidney health by reducing the risk of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, each of which could contribute to stone formation.

Leafy Greens

While a few leafy veggies are excessive in oxalates, others, like kale and broccoli, are low in oxalates and high in nutrients like calcium and magnesium. These greens can assist in reducing the stone formation by providing crucial minerals without increasing oxalate ranges.

Foods to Avoid

High-Oxalate Foods

Oxalate is a compound made from many ingredients. When oxalate levels are too excessive, they can bind with calcium inside the urine and shape calcium oxalate stones. Foods rich in oxalates, consisting of spinach, rhubarb, beets, nuts, and chocolate, must be eaten carefully. Pairing high-oxalate foods with calcium-rich meals can assist reduce the chance of stone formation.

Salty Foods

A high-sodium diet can increase the amount of calcium in the urine, which may add to the formation of calcium stones. Reducing the consumption of salt can help lower urinary calcium levels and reduce the chance of getting kidney stones. Avoid processed food and ingredients which can be full of sodium, and choose natural and clean ingredients as a substitute.

Animal Protein

High consumption of animal protein, mainly from red meat, chicken, and fish, can increase the danger of uric acid and calcium oxalate stones. Animal protein increases the quantity of uric acid inside the urine and decreases citrate stages, both of which may make contributions to stone formation. Our urologist in Chennai advises people to limit the intake of animal protein and selecting plant-based protein resources can help lower your risk.

Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks, particularly those sweetened with excessive fructose corn syrup, can contribute to kidney stone formation. These beverages increase the levels of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid within the urine. Going for water, natural teas, or diluted fruit juices can help you maintain your kidney health.

Lifestyle Tips 

In addition to the dietary modifications, certain lifestyle habits can reduce the chance of kidney stones. Regular physical exercises help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important due to the fact weight problems are a danger element for kidney stones. Avoiding alcohol consumption and not smoking are also key to kidney health.

Diet plays an important position in the prevention of kidney stones. By staying hydrated, consuming kidney-friendly ingredients for your diet, you can drastically reduce kidney stones formation. Remember, small changes in your daily routine could make a massive difference in maintaining healthy kidneys and preventing the soreness and complications associated with kidney stones. For personalized advice and effective prevention strategies, consulting a urologist doctor in Chennai is important to make sure you get the best care for your kidney.