Preventing Kidney Stones: Diet and Lifestyle Tips

 If anyone has ever experienced kidney stones, they must know how painful they are. The discomfort is often compared to the intensity of pain experienced during childbirth. Kidney stones form when crystals accumulate and obstruct the urine flow. The stones develop in highly concentrated urine when there is an abundance of crystals and insufficient liquid. The larger the stone, the more difficult it is to pass. According to Dr. Niren Rao, a leading urologist who performs the best kidney stone surgery in Delhi, while the stones develop from various minerals, the most common type is calcium oxalate.

Fortunately, kidney stones can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes, particularly changes in diet. This blog will detail the essential tips that help prevent the formation of kidney stones. By incorporating these tips, one can also reduce the chances of developing another kidney stone.

Here are Effective Tips For Preventing Kidney Stones

1. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking sufficient fluid is essential because it helps to dilute substances in urine, reducing their concentration and preventing the formation of crystals. The more water one drinks, the less chances of developing kidney stones. Sports drinks, which contain electrolytes, are another way to replenish hydration. They will help in the regular functioning of the kidneys. Maintaining hydration is also important for individuals who are experiencing chronic conditions such as diabetes.

2. Consume a Moderate Amount of Protein

Excessive protein intake, including red meat, eggs, and poultry, can increase the level of uric acid and lead to kidney stones. A high-protein diet can also lower urinary citrate levels in the body, which is a substance in urine that helps prevent kidney stones from developing in the first place. One must include foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains in their diet.

3. Limit Food With High Oxalate Content

Oxalate food can be a problem for individuals who have kidney stones. Oxalic acid is a substance that is found in the human body, but it is also found in a lot of foods. Foods that have oxalates include green leafy vegetables, almonds, cereal grains, soy, etc. However, one must limit to three servings of these daily. To know which foods should be included in a diet to prevent kidney stones, seek help from Dr. Niren Rao, the best urologist in Delhi at Delhi Urology Hospital.

4. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals and help minimize the risk of developing kidney stones. Consuming 5 to 9 servings of fruit and vegetables per day can boost one’s potassium, fibre, magnesium, antioxidants, phytate, and citrate levels. This ultimately lowers the risk of developing kidney stones.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight increases the chance of developing kidney stones. Maintaining a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise can lessen stress on the kidneys and reduce the chances of developing stones.

6. Eat Less Meat

Consuming animal protein may increase uric acid levels in the urine, perhaps leading to calcium oxalate or cystine stones. If one has a recurring stone, the urologist may advise the patient to eat less meat.

7. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine dehydrate the body and increase the risk of kidney stone formation. To prevent kidney stones, one must limit alcohol and caffeine consumption.

8. Be Careful of Medications

There are certain medications, such as diuretics, antacids, and some prescription medications, that can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. If one is taking any medications regularly, they must discuss the potential side effects with their doctor and explore alternative options.

Consult the Top-Notch Urologist at Delhi Urology Hospital

While these are general recommendations that help prevent kidney stones, it is important to consult a urologist for personalized dietary advice. If one is looking for a renowned urologist, one can contact Dr. Niren Rao at Delhi Urology Hospital.

The expert doctor specialises in performing effective kidney stone surgeries such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) at the hospital. The kidney stone surgery cost in Delhi varies from patient to patient, depending on the procedure performed. The cost of PCNL ranges between Rs. 35,000 and Rs. 40,000, and the cost of RIRS surgery starts at Rs. 60,000 at the hospital.