Preventing Kidney Stones

 Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Diet, over weight are the main causes of the kidney stones. Kidney stones vary in size and can range from as small as a grain of sand to large as golf ball. 

Kidney stones can develop when the urine contains high level of substances that promote stone formation .Factos contributing to the kidney stones include dehydration,dietary factors ( such as high intake of sodium).

Sharp pain in the side and the back, pain or burning sensation while urinating,pink or brown urine,nausea and vomiting,frequent urination,painful urination  are some of the symptoms of the kidney stones.

Here are some factors that can help reduce the risk of kidney stone formation:

1) Stay hydrated:

                                                            

Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to maintain urine volume and prevent dehydration. Aim to drink enough water to produce clear or light-colored urine.

2) Reduce Sodium:                                                                

High sodium levels in the diet can increase calcium levels in the urine, which can contribute to kidney stone formation.

3) Balanced Diet:

                                                  

Diets high in the animal protein such as red meat,poultry and seafood can increase the risk of the kidney stone formation. Aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources including plant  based proteins.

4) Reduce caffeine and alcohol:

                                                   

Excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol can lead to the dehydration which increases the risk of the kidney stone formation.

5) Increase Citrus Fruits:                                       

                                                             

Citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges, contain citrate, which can help prevent stone formation. Citrate helps inhibit the formation of certain types of kidney stones. Include citrus fruits in your diet or try adding lemon juice to your water.

6) Maintaining healthy weight:

                               

                                               

Weight gain are associated with an increased risk of kidney stones.Try to maintain a healthy weight with balanced diet, drink plenty of water,decrease your daily sodium intake,engage more in the physical activity,monitor your calcium intake.

7) Watch Oxalate intake:

                                   

 Some kidney stones are composed of calcium oxalate. If you have had calcium oxalate stones before, it may be beneficial to moderate your intake of foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, beets, nuts, and tea.