Diet To Prevent Kidney Stones – What Should And Shouldn’t Be Eaten To Prevent Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are fairly common. In a room full of people, eight out of ten will either have had it themselves or at least know someone who has. Plus because this is reoccurring, once the stones are formed, it is highly likely they will be back after a year or so. But all is not lost, there is a diet to prevent kidney stones.
More water please
Just as in any diet, an increase in fluids will do wonders. Water is the most advised. In this diet to prevent kidney stones it is an absolute must. Eight to ten glasses are advised, but to be more specific, eight to ten ounces should be taken in every hour while awake, and once during the night. The goal of all this drinking is to make you pee two quarts or even more every day.
Calcium – the double sided sword
An appropriate amount of calcium is needed in any diet. This mineral plays a vital role in keeping your body healthy and strong. You can get your calcium fix from cheese and dairy products. Dark leafy veggies on the other hand are also a source, but not a very good one giving your body only little amounts of this mineral. There are also pills that can be taken to make sure you meet your daily requirement.
The body does not absorb more calcium than it actually needs. This is the given norm. However, too much calcium is absorbed and passed to the kidneys giving stones a chance to form. If this is the case, a thin margin of calcium will be given to you- 800 mg a day.
Oxalate or Oxalic Acid
This is a tricky factor in a diet because this reduces the ability of calcium to be absorbed. This is great for patients whose bodies absorb too much calcium, but not really good for those who lack it.
Sugar
Too much of this, just like anything else, can lead to the development of stones. Moderation is the key. You also have to choose your sugar wisely. Foods with containing natural sugars are fine but packaged ones with added sugars should be avoided.
So sodium
By reducing your sodium intake, you also reduce calcium excretion in the urine. The ideal amount of sodium on a daily basis is 2300 to 3500 mg.
Mighty meaty protein
Animal protein is needed in any diet but those who have suffered from stones in the kidneys, this type of produce should be consumed in moderation. The ideal intake differs from person to person based on body weight, height and other factors. So a dietician or physician should be able to give you the proper breakdown of protein that fits your unique requirements or needs. Even your doctor could advise you on the ideal quantity. Otherwise look for alternative forms of protein that are easier to metabolize in the body.