What Are Common Causes Of Kidney Stones, And How Can We Prevent Them?

Following a suitable diet plan, drinking water, choosing health over fast food and exercising regularly burns calories, produces sweat, eliminates toxins and breaks down stones.

Kidney stones are prevalent these days. Research suggests that 1 out of 10 people are prone to developing such stones in their lifetime. Like many other lifestyle disorders, kidney stones are an indirect consequence of them. The causes and prevention of kidney stones are inextricably linked. While genetics have a decisive role, Functional Medicine and Health Expert Shivani Bajwa explains that kidney stones are easily avoidable if one follows a healthy diet and an orderly lifestyle:

1. Dehydration is the most significant cause of kidney stones: Our body comprises 70% water, which is essential for smooth functioning. We constantly lose fluids through sweat and excretion and must replenish this loss. Drink 2.5 to 3 litres of water every day. Increased fluid intake in water, tea, coffee, and organic juices like coconut water catalyses the urge to urinate frequently, thereby eliminating toxins and any crystals that may have formed in the urinary tract.
2. A balanced diet, with optimum portions of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals, goes a long way in preventing the formation of stones. However, when a person consumes a diet full of animal protein like red meat, organ meat, seafood, or shellfish only, it causes an internal imbalance because animal proteins consist of purines in high amounts. This spikes uric acid levels in the body, and the kidneys filter it in huge quantities through urine. Without enough fluid to dilute this excess uric acid, it crystallises and forms stones. Switching to plant-based proteins like soy, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fruits is easier on the kidneys and prevents stone formation.

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3. Sodium and artificial sugar are the second most potent threats to kidney health: A sodium-potassium balance ensures an overall smooth functioning of the human body. It also significantly affects how waste materials are extracted from the bloodstream and transferred to the kidney for disposal. Consuming excessive salt throws off this balance, causing more calcium to leak into the kidneys and bind together to form crystals. Salts are paramount in making food tastier, but they have their downsides. Healthier alternatives like spices, herbs, lime and onions can replace salt in your diet. Similarly, added sugars, primarily found in carbonated beverages like soda and cola, add calcium and oxalate into the urine, causing calcium-oxalate stones.
4. Since imbalances in diet cause kidney stones and can be prevented by consuming healthier foods and regular exercise, weight and stone formation have an underlying connection. Research suggests that the optimum body-mass index is the best for kidney health; many people suffering from stones are also overweight. Following a suitable diet plan, drinking water, choosing health over fast food (full of harmful fatty acids, artificial sugars and nitrates) and exercising regularly burns calories, produces sweat, eliminates toxins and breaks down stones. Therefore, it is best to look for kidney stones if one is overweight!

Once kidney stones are formed (and are above 5 mm in size), it is best to consult a doctor and undergo surgery. Due to developments in science and technology, surgical procedures and the recovery process are usually painless.