Kidney stones leave individuals with severe abdominal discomfort and pain that must be immediately treated to avoid extensive medical challenges. For individuals who have in the past had renal calculi,
the hard deposits of minerals and salts that bind to form stones in the kidneys, there is an additional fear of developing a recurrence.
Panic may set in for such patients. The good news is that you can prevent the recurrence of kidney stone formation by following a well-planned diet and avoiding certain food items that seep in calcium oxalate and uric acid in your kidneys. One doesn’t have to let go of their favourite delicacies, just be mindful not to take these food items for healthy and well-functioning kidneys.
Avoid These Foods To Prevent Kidney Stone Recurrence
High-Oxalate Foods
Foods such as spinach, beets, nuts and chocolates contain a high dosage of oxalates that combine with calcium in your body and pave the pathway for those painful stones that give you a nightmare. Replace these with low-oxalate fruits and veggies, including cucumber, bananas, cauliflower, grapes and watermelon.
High-Sodium Foods
Ensure your dishes have only a balanced amount of salt and spices. Whether or not you’ve had stones before, a high dosage of sodium in the body is bound to raise the calcium excretion into the urine and lead to kidney stone formation. Especially avoid the processed, canned and fast food items and replace those with home-cooked meals that are seasoned with herbs and mild spices.
Animal Protein
Animal-based protein consumed from red meat and shellfish may be good for muscle and bone density, but such dishes often contain high amounts of purines, which lead to uric acid stones. Lentils, beans, chickpeas and moderate portions of poultry or fish are considered healthier alternatives.
Beverages
Packaged beverages such as sodas and juices contain too much sugar, posing a risk of a sudden high fructose and blood sugar boost in one’s body. While processed sugar raises calcium excretion, sweet sodas contain phosphoric acid. Both are bad for your kidneys. Replace them with plain water or fresh lemon juice for better hydration.
Colas and Caffeine-Filled Drinks
Talking of the phosphoric acid, a bottle of cola isn’t short of it. Other caffeine-based drinks may boost your energy, but excess consumption also concentrates minerals in urine. Steer clear of colas and energy drinks to prevent kidney stone recurrences.
Vitamin C Supplements
While Vitamin C is great for the body, many in their busy lifestyles today opt for supplements to cut down on its deficiency. A high dosage of these Vitamin C supplements, however, can raise the body’s oxalate levels and pave the way for the development of kidney stones. Instead of these supplements, opt for whole foods like oranges, strawberries and bell peppers.
High-Purine Foods
Food items such as sardines, anchovies, organ meats and beer raise the body’s uric acid levels and subsequently, cause uric acid stones in the kidney. Swap them with plant-based proteins and moderate amounts of animal-based proteins while revisiting your hydration choices.
