Preventing and Treating Kidney Stones Part 2…
This week, we continue with looking at ways you can prevent kidney stones entirely or limit their growth and subsequent pain:
- Avoid Protein: Foods high in animal protein are acidic and may increase urine acid. High urine acid may cause both uric acid and calcium oxalate kidney stones. Avoid foods such as: beef, poultry, fish, and pork.
- Avoid Vitamin C: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) supplementation may cause kidney stones, especially in men. According to one 2013 study, men who took high doses of vitamin C supplements doubled their risk of forming a kidney stone. Researchers do NOT believe vitamin C from food carries the same risk.
- Increase Citric Acid Intake: About 60 percent of individuals with kidney stones also have hypocitraturia or low citric acid levels. This is a key recommendation that is supported by many well known health organizations. It may seem confusing because the previous recommendation was to avoid high dose Vitamin C supplements. This recommendation focuses on a different key substance, citric acid, which is found in many fruits naturally. By following this particular guideline, studies show prevention is as effective as the current gold standard prescription citrate supplement. Good sources of citric acid include: one 4-ounce glass of undiluted, unsweetened lemon or lime juice (best choice), one 8-ounce glass of orange juice, one 8-ounce, or a glass of melon or mango juice.
- Get Enough Calcium (besides oxalate): While calcium oxalate is the most common compound in kidney stones, some of the calcium found in food actually helps reduce the risk of stones. Most dairy products are a good source of calcium. Many other foods are fortified with calcium, including: orange juice, soy sauce, canned fish with bones (such as sardines), and tofus.
- Avoid Sugary Foods: Sweetened drinks, especially those containing high-fructose corn syrup, have been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones.
- Avoid Excessive Caffeine Consumption: Caffeine speeds up metabolism and can cause dehydration. The recommended upper limit for adults is 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine daily, which is equivalent to about 4 cups of coffee. It is important to remember that certain sodas, chocolate, teas, and energy drinks contain caffeine.
- Avoid excessive alcohol intake: Alcohol causes cells to increase fluid output while preventing fluid absorption, leading to dehydration.
- Supplements: A wide range of natural supplements and vitamins may help reduce the risk of kidney stones, including: potassium citrate, vitamin B-6, which is found in foods (such as bananas, mangos, soybeans, avocados, halibut), pyridoxine supplements, and fish oil.
As always, please leave questions, comments, or other topics of interest!
