6 Ways to prevent kidney stones
If you have ever had kidney stones you know how terrible they can be. It’s pain that is unflinching and can leave your body racking in pain. In order to avoid that you need to take certain steps. Here are 6 ways you can prevent kidney stones from happening again.
Drink liquids (like water and lemon juice)
One of the key ways to prevent kidney stones is to drink liquids, specifically liquids such as water and those that are high in citrus. Kidney stone prevention is about making lifestyle changes that will affect your diet and workout habits. Drinking more water throughout the day and urinating more often will rid your body of excess calcium, preventing it from building up in your kidneys. If you work out often, make sure to rehydrate as sweat will reduce your need to urinate. However, don’t be afraid to work out as it can keep your prostate healthy. Also, try to switch to some drinks such as lemonade and lemon juice. Not only are they low in calories and good sources of protein, but they can prevent kidney stones from forming. The goal is to urinate often to prevent any calcium buildup. Don’t go crazy trying to make yourself urinate, but make sure to replenish your intake.
Eat calcium-rich foods but don’t take supplements
Although calcium buildup is a cause of most kidney stones, that doesn’t mean you should lower your limit of calcium-rich food in your diet. Actually, calcium-rich foods have been shown to lower your chances of having a kidney stone. It is also important to mention oxalate kidney stones. Oxalate stones are some of the most common, and oxalate is found in many healthy foods. It is a good idea to limit some of your intake of oxalate. Eventually, you will eat some foods with oxalate because a healthy diet will include them. Instead of taking a calcium supplement or eating oxalate-rich food alone, eat calcium-rich foods with oxalate-rich foods. That way the foods will bind together before they enter your urine. Eating smarter and healthier is the key to prevent kidney stones.
Avoid a sodium-rich diet
Too much salt in your diet will keep calcium from being reabsorbed from your urine back into the bloodstream. To prevent kidney stones, avoid adding extra salt in your meals or eating heavily salted items. If you use a lot of salt in your cooking, try switching to other herbal alternatives. Try buying fresh vegetables instead of canned. You will also want to avoid eating fried foods often. Prevent kidney stones by being selective about what you eat and how you season your food.
Eat less animal-based protein
Protein found in pork, fish, poultry, or beef will contain high levels of acids. High levels of acid in your urine can develop uric acid and oxalate kidney stones. Cut back on protein within your diet or have a strictly vegetarian meal a couple of times of the week. If it is necessary to eat these proteins for your diet, consult with your doctor or urologist.
Take action
Even though they can be one of the most painful experiences, many people don’t do enough to prevent kidney stones. If you have already had a kidney stone, go see a urologist to make lifestyle changes for you and your family. Talk about ways you can best switch to a healthier diet and exercise. You can also seek medication to prevent kidney stones if this is an ongoing problem. The important thing is to be proactive in your treatment. Don’t wonder if you are doing the right things; know that you are!
Looking to talk to a urologist to talk about how to prevent kidney stones? Northwoods Urology is a judgment-free zone that will help you be the best you can be. Contact us today for an appointment!
