Kidney stones are a common health issue, directly impacting kidney function and causing pain, with potential complications if left untreated. According to Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from the Nutrihome Nutrition Center, individuals with kidney stones should seek professional medical evaluation and treatment, combined with a suitable diet, which can include beneficial drinks for the kidneys.

Water is an essential drink for those with kidney stones. Drinking enough water dilutes urine and prevents the crystallization of minerals that cause stones. Most kidney stone patients are advised to drink plenty of water daily, around 2-2.5 liters, unless otherwise instructed due to other medical conditions. Staying hydrated throughout the day, especially during physical activity, sweating, or hot weather, helps limit the risk of new stone formation and assists in flushing out small stone crystals through the urinary system.

Fresh lemon juice is rich in natural citrate. This substance can prevent calcium crystals from binding in urine, thereby limiting stone formation. Unsweetened or lightly sweetened lemon juice is beneficial for people with diabetes, avoiding excessive acidity that can affect the stomach.

Watermelon juice contributes to flushing mineral deposits from the body, benefiting individuals with kidney stones. Photo: Bao Tran

Corn silk tea promotes urination and increases the expulsion of small stones through urine. Corn silk contains vitamin K, minerals, and compounds that have a mild diuretic effect, cleansing the urinary tract. Individuals with kidney stones can use fresh or dried corn silk, boiled to make tea for daily consumption. However, it's important to drink it in moderation to avoid electrolyte imbalance.

Pineapple juice benefits those with kidney stones due to the enzyme bromelain and its high water content, which promote urination and have anti-inflammatory properties. Pineapple also provides vitamin C and fiber, beneficial for digestion and helping to reduce mild inflammation in individuals experiencing symptoms due to stones. It's best to drink fresh pineapple juice without added sugar, and it can be diluted with water to reduce the sour taste.

Watermelon juice is beneficial for kidney stone sufferers thanks to its high water content and its ability to promote the elimination of mineral deposits from the body. Watermelon is rich in potassium, which helps remove excess sodium, reducing strain on the kidneys. Patients should consume fresh watermelon juice without added sugar or eat whole watermelon to benefit from both its fiber and water content.

Dr. Duy Tung advises that kidney stone patients should avoid bottled soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, and other sugary industrial beverages. These products can increase the risk of new stone formation and directly impact kidney function. Limiting salt intake, controlling protein consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight also contribute to kidney stone prevention and treatment. Individuals with kidney stones should not self-medicate with herbal remedies or medications of unknown origin.

Bao Tran