Kidney stones are solid fragments that while very small, can’t get out by themselves. They get stuck in the urinary tract, causing a lot of pain. They can be caused by many factors.
No matter what, a good diet is essential for preventing the formation of kidney stones. In addition, it helps you to be able to pass them more easily in case they’re already in your body.
You should try to avoid these foods or consume them with caution, especially if you’re prone to kidney stones. Let’s take a look at them.
Foods that can contribute to kidney stones
1. Caffeine
Coffee is the star of your morning. But while it may help you wake up in the morning or get your work done at the office, it also causes collateral damage.
One of its effects is that it makes your kidneys work harder and increases the chance of getting kidney stones. Caffeine isn’t just in coffee, but also in tea and soda. These beverages increase calcium levels in urine and can cause kidney failure in the long term due to their stimulant effects.
2. Red meat
Animal-based protein and fat is associated with the formation of kidney stones and kidney damage. If your diet includes too much red meat, you should know that the components in red meat are hard for your body to get rid of.
This food is also high in uric acid and purines. When these levels are too high, you can get gout or kidney stones. Other foods high in purines are asparagus, beans, and cabbage. Try to not eat too much of these in a short period of time. This can help prevent kidney stones due to the accumulation of uric acid.3. Artificial sweeteners
We use them to sweeten our desserts and teas. They’re in diet drinks, and we can find them in many low-calorie foods. While we may think they’re better for us than sugar, they have many serious side effects including kidney stones and worsening kidney function.
4. Salt
One of the most common problems in people’s diets is sodium intake. Eating too much salt promotes fluid retention and the formation of kidney stones. Your body can’t get rid of all of the excess sodium, which ends up being stored in the renal system. In addition, it raises blood pressure and contributes to weight gain.
5. Shellfish
People predisposed to kidney stones should avoid foods high in oxalates. This organic compound contributes to sodium and calcium accumulation in the kidneys.
The food that contain the most oxalic acid is shellfish, but they aren’t alone. Leafy greens, chocolate, and walnuts also contain a good amount.
It is also a good idea to reduce your consumption of peanuts, bran, and beets if you want to prevent kidney stones. Celery and liver also contain a small amount.
Remember, you shouldn’t exceed 50 mg a day. To reduce oxalate absorption, you should eat calcium-rich foods. When both are consumed, they are passed through the kidney more easily.
6. Dairy
Dairy is an important and very common part of people’s diets. These foods are high in calcium and necessary for the growth and strengthening of your bones. However, they aren’t good for people who tend to get kidney stones.
The consumption of milk, yogurt, or cheese increases the elimination of calcium via urine and this makes the elimination of kidney stones and waste more difficult.
Since a lack of calcium in your diet is associated with a higher risk of kidney stones, moderate consumption is recommended.
In other words, don’t eliminate calcium from your diet, but do try to get it in many different forms like almonds, for example.
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