Answer:

Several factors contribute to obesity, including genetics, an unhealthy diet, and lack of physical activity. Obese individuals have a higher risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and high blood lipids compared to individuals of average weight. These conditions are all known to promote the formation of kidney stones.

Being overweight or obese can alter the primary components of kidney stones in urine, such as increasing the concentration of calcium, uric acid, and oxalate. Insulin resistance, a common condition in obese people, affects metabolism and increases the risk of kidney stone formation. Obese individuals tend to consume more processed foods, fast food, and foods high in sodium and trans fats, all of which can contribute to stone formation.

Inflammation and oxidative stress, linked to excess weight and obesity, are also considered factors in kidney stone development. Visceral fat promotes the secretion of inflammatory adipokins and cytokines, leading to insulin resistance, pre-inflammation, pre-thrombosis, and high blood pressure. Inflammation also reduces oxalate secretion in the intestines, increasing oxalate excretion through urine, which can lead to stone formation.

Overweight and obese individuals have a significantly higher risk of developing kidney stones than individuals of average weight. Image generated by AI.

Common kidney stone symptoms include sudden, cramping pain starting in the lower back on one or both sides of the lower ribs, a dull ache in the flank, and pain when sitting for extended periods or changing positions abruptly. Other symptoms may include fever, chills, and blood in the urine.

It is recommended that you lose weight under the guidance of a doctor and manage any related conditions to reduce the risk of stone formation and growth. Maintain a balanced diet by prioritizing lean meats and green vegetables, avoiding foods high in fat, oxalate, caffeine, and salt, and drinking 2-3 liters of water daily. Regular exercise, adequate rest, weight management, and regular check-ups every 6 months are also recommended to reduce your risk of kidney stones.

Master, Doctor Tran Dinh Manh Long

Department of Endocrinology - Diabetes

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM