Ahh, the holidays! There’s nothing like loading up on sugary treats, lots of alcohol, and honey ham, right? Right, but now that the holiday season is over, the physicians at Affiliated Urologists want patients to understand there are foods that can cause kidney stones, like the ones mentioned above (i.e. sugary treats, alcohol, and salty/sugary meat), and foods that can prevent them.
Additionally, it's important patients are aware of the different kinds of kidney stones that can develop from these foods. After reviewing some of the foods listed, be sure to talk to your urologist at Affiliated Urologists to evaluate your risk of developing a kidney stone.
Eat Calcium-Rich Food
Calcium-rich foods combined with oxalate foods (nuts, black pepper, chocolate, etc.) can actually reduce your risk of developing a kidney stone. Why? Because calcium and oxalates bind together in your intestines, never reaching your kidneys. Many physicians recommend eating calcium-rich foods over taking supplements, but if you must take a supplement, consume between 800 and 1,000 mg of calcium a day.
Cut Back on Alcohol
Alcohol and caffeine are “no Bueno” (not good) for your kidneys. The two can put stress on the kidneys, leading to the development of kidney stones and higher levels of calcium in your urine. Try to cut back on the alcohol if you’re prone to developing kidney stones.
Drink Lots of Water
Plain, filtered water helps dilute the substances in your urine that can lead to kidney stones. Drinking enough water so that you’re urinating every three hours or drinking enough to pass 2 liters of urine a day is ideal. This is generally measured by eight standard 8-ounce cups of water. Drinking lemonade and other citrus beverages may help block stone formation.
Limit Salt Intake
A high-sodium diet can trigger the formation of kidney stones because, once again, salt increases the amount of calcium in your urine. We suggest limiting your sodium intake to 2,300 mg a day, which is about 1,000 mg less than what most people consume. Also, read your food labels and try to stay away from food items that have more than 300 mg of sodium per serving.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or visit http://affiliatedurologists.com/contact/ for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
