Preventing Kidney Stones: Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Urinary System
The excruciating pain caused by kidney stones may lead you to change your lifestyle habits. Though you can avoid kidney stones from occurring, there’s always a way to lessen your risk factors. Here are some helpful tips to keep your urinary system healthy.
Stay Hydrated
One of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones is to drink lots of fluids. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day. Drinking enough water helps flush out excess waste from the body, including minerals that may form into kidney stones.
Reduce Your Sodium Intake
High sodium intake boosts the amount of calcium in your urine. This can contribute to the development of kidney stones. Reducing your sodium consumption helps maintain the balance of minerals in your body.
Consume Less Animal Protein
Eating too much red meat, poultry, eggs, or seafood elevates the concentration of uric acid in your body. This will increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
Limit Your Oxalate Intake
Oxalates are compounds found in certain foods such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate. Eating foods with high oxalate levels can facilitate the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, it’s essential to keep your consumption of such foods in moderation.
Get Enough Calcium
Although it sounds counter-intuitive, calcium can actually help in the prevention of kidney stones. Calcium binds with oxalates in the intestine, reducing the amount that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and subsequently enter the urine. If you have a history of kidney stones, don’t take calcium supplements without consulting your doctor.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight increases the risk of developing kidney stones. Obesity can cause metabolic changes that promote stone formation.
Conclusion
Preventing kidney stones depends on one’s lifestyle and dietary habits. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a healthy, balanced diet is key to maintaining a healthy urinary system. Cut down on sodium and animal protein consumption while getting enough calcium to lessen your risk of kidney stones. By following these tips, you can stay healthy and avoid the pain and discomfort caused by kidney stones.
