Kidney stones can form when urine is contaminated with chemicals that inhibit crystallization or when it is saturated with waste products. Calcium with phosphate or oxide is the most common type. Some kidney stones can contain uric acid. These are more common in people who have gout. Nutritional treatment aims to reduce the risk factors that lead to stone formation in the diet and prevent the growth of existing kidney stones. People with stones need to drink plenty of fluids. This will reduce the amount of stone-forming substances in your urine and dilute it.
Hydration
In hot weather or on holiday in a hot environment, it is important to drink lots of fluid. Water is the best option for maintaining fluid levels. Due to the diuretic effects of caffeine, moderate consumption of alcohol, coffee, or tea may help to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. It is recommended that you consume at least 3 litres (or 5-6 pints) per day of fluids.
Calcium stones are rarely caused by a high-calcium diet. If you have kidney stones, it is important to consume moderate amounts of calcium. Low calcium intake can lead to calcium oxalate stone formation. For people with kidney stones, a calcium intake of 600-800mg is recommended. People at risk of developing calcium oxalate stones should reduce their intake of foods high in oxalate. People at high risk of developing kidney stones should avoid vitamin C supplements.
Remember
This vitamin can be broken down into oxalate which is excreted in your kidneys. Consuming high amounts of animal protein can make your body acidic and increase your urinary calcium excretion. The binding effect of sulphate found in dietary proteins decreases kidney calcium absorption. People with kidney stones should reduce their intake of animal protein from meat, fish and poultry to 60-70g per daily.
High sodium intake can increase calcium excretion and lead to calcium-containing crystals in your urine. It is recommended to reduce high-sodium foods by consuming no more than 2 to 4 grams per day. High-sodium foods include processed, canned, and packaged foods. Look at the labels. Any food with a sodium content exceeding 400mg per serving will be considered high in sodium.