Kidney stone recurrence causes pain and affects daily life. The primary cause is often linked to lifestyle factors, such as concentrated urine or mineral buildup, which form crystals and develop into stones. Adopting simple habits can reduce the risk of recurrence.
Drinking enough water
Drinking enough water is a crucial measure to lower the risk of kidney stone recurrence. Water dilutes urine, reducing mineral concentration and limiting stone formation. Conversely, insufficient water intake concentrates urine, fostering stone development.
Reducing salt intake
High salt consumption causes kidneys to excrete more calcium, increasing the risk of stone formation. Many daily foods, such as packaged snacks, fast food, and restaurant meals, contain high levels of salt. Prioritize simple, home-cooked meals with less salt, read food labels, and gradually reduce salt intake to maintain stable calcium levels. This change creates a healthier environment in the urinary tract over time, lowering stone formation risk.
Reducing oxalate-rich foods
Individuals at high risk of kidney stones should reduce their dietary oxalate intake. Oxalate in food travels through the digestive tract, binding with calcium for excretion. However, if oxalate levels are too high, the remainder reaching the kidneys can form calcium oxalate stones. This common type of kidney stone sees increased risk with high oxalate concentrations.
Reducing red meat to stabilize uric acid levels
Uric acid is a waste product in the blood. Uric acid stones form when urine becomes concentrated and highly acidic. This is one of four common types of kidney stones, causing painful urination and blood in the urine. The cause often relates to a purine-rich diet, such as red meat and seafood, or metabolic issues like gout and obesity. Reducing red meat and seafood while prioritizing plant-based foods helps lower uric acid, making urine less acidic and reducing kidney stone risk.
Supplementing with citrate-rich fruits
Citrate, a natural substance found in fruits and vegetables, can prevent crystal formation in the kidneys. Consuming more citrus fruits can increase citrate levels and maintain normal urine pH.
Preventing kidney stone recurrence requires building a long-term healthy lifestyle, not just changing one habit. Individuals with a history of stones should undergo regular check-ups, urine tests, and consult with their doctor for appropriate preventive measures.
By Bao Bao (According to Healthline, Times of India)
