According to Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Quang Huy from the Department of Nephrology - Dialysis at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, Tet feasts often feature foods rich in protein, fat, and sugar, with fewer vegetables and fruits than usual. This dietary imbalance forces the urinary system to work harder. Adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits during this period is crucial for preventing urinary stones, urinary tract infections, and related complications.

Limit excessive alcohol and carbonated soft drinks

Alcohol and carbonated soft drinks are common beverages during Tet, but excessive consumption can directly impact the urinary system. Alcohol dehydrates the body, forcing the kidneys to work harder, which can lead to high blood pressure, kidney stones, and impaired kidney function over time.

Heavy alcohol consumption also makes the body more susceptible to urinary tract infections. Carbonated soft drinks, especially those high in sugar, increase the risk of kidney stones, obesity, and diabetes – conditions that can cause long-term kidney damage. Therefore, it is advisable to limit these beverages and prioritize plain water to protect the kidneys and urinary system.

Avoid holding urine

Holding urine is a common habit for many during busy Tet days. However, retaining urine in the bladder for too long creates conditions for sediment to accumulate, increasing the risk of stone formation. Stagnant urine also provides a favorable environment for bacteria to grow, easily leading to urinary tract infections. Urinating promptly when needed helps the bladder function effectively and reduces the risk of complications.

Drink enough water daily

Adequate hydration is a simple yet crucial measure to protect the urinary system. Adults should maintain a daily intake of about 2-3 liters of fluid, prioritizing plain water and fresh fruit juices. Drinking enough water dilutes urine, reduces the concentration of minerals that can crystallize into stones, and helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract. Tea, coffee, or soft drinks should not completely replace plain water.

Limit high-salt, high-protein foods

Dishes like pickled vegetables, cured pork sausage, and braised pork are often heavily seasoned and contain high amounts of salt. Consuming too much salt causes the body to retain water, raises blood pressure, and forces the kidneys to work harder to excrete excess salt, which can lead to kidney damage and an increased risk of kidney failure over time. Conversely, excessive consumption of high-protein foods such as red meat, organ meats, and seafood increases metabolic waste products, compelling the kidneys to filter more, potentially leading to kidney functional overload and an increased risk of kidney stones.

It is advisable to reduce salt during cooking and consume protein in appropriate amounts, balancing animal and plant-based proteins for long-term kidney health.

Increase fresh vegetables and fruits

Fresh vegetables and fruits provide many vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting the function of the urinary system. Some fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and kiwis, help alter the urinary environment, inhibiting bacterial growth. Additionally, they help balance nutrition during periods of high protein and fat intake.

Doctor Huy advises individuals with a history of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or underlying health conditions to maintain healthy lifestyle and eating habits during Tet. If symptoms such as flank pain, painful urination, frequent urination, or blood in the urine appear, patients should seek early medical examination for timely consultation and treatment.

Thu Giang