Causes of kidney stones and best foods for kidney stone
What Causes of kidney stones?
Kidney stones are painful and annoying. They affect up to
15% of Americans at some point in their lives. Most often, they form when
calcium builds up in the urine. What causes uric acid or calcium to build up in
the body?
Kidney stones are caused by a combination of things, including genetics, diet, environment, and certain medications. Calcium is also present in many foods, especially dairy products. Uric acid is found in high amounts in red meat, chocolate, and coffee. And dehydration can cause both types of stones.
It's true that the
exact cause of kidney stones isn't always clear. But there are several ways to
prevent them from forming. For example, avoiding excess salt, caffeine,
alcohol, and sugar can help lower the risk of stone formation. Also, drinking
plenty of water each day can reduce the amount of minerals and other substances
in the urine. In addition, taking vitamin D supplements and maintaining
adequate levels of magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus in the blood can also
prevent stones from forming.
Best foods for kidney stones
1. Cranberry juice
Citrus fruits,
strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries have been shown to help prevent
gallstones. Studies have looked at citrus fruit extracts and berries and found
they may reduce the risk of developing these types of stones. While we don't
know exactly how these foods work, we do know what works best: cranberries!
Canned or fresh, cranberries seem to help keep the bile flowing out properly.
If you're prone to kidney stone formation, drink plenty of water and eat lots of
fiber-rich whole grains, beans and vegetables.
2. Olive oil
Olive oil contains
powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Polyphenols are known to inhibit
cholesterol production. In addition, olive oil lowers levels of calcium oxalate
crystals (a major cause of kidney stones). If you're prone to forming kidney
stones, limit intake of processed foods, refined sugar, alcohol and caffeine.
Eat plenty of dark chocolate, olives, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and fish.
3. Broccoli
Broccolini offers
amazing benefits. Like other cruciferous veggies, broccoli helps lower bad
cholesterol and boost good cholesterol. A recent study suggests that people who
ate two servings per week had a 25% reduced chance of developing kidney disease
than those who consumed only 1 serving per month. Also, broccoli's vitamin K
content keeps bones strong and aids in blood clotting. Eating it regularly can
help keep you from having a stroke or heart attack.
4. Salmon
This delicious fatty
fish contains omega-3 fats, which may protect against chronic inflammation.
Inflammation often contributes to kidney problems. Eat salmon several times
each week. You'll get about 12 grams of protein, just under half a cup of fat,
and less than 200 milligrams of mercury - a type of toxic metal. Mercury builds
up in our bodies and can contribute to kidney damage.
5. Green Tea
Green tea contains
catechins, chemicals that act similarly to aspirin. Studies show that drinking
three cups of tea daily reduces the chances of developing kidney stones by
nearly 50%. Drink green tea after meals to avoid excess stomach acid and
stomach bloating.
6. Yogurt
Yogurt fights
bacteria in the intestines. Probiotics, live cultures found in yogurt, help to
restore intestinal balance and aid digestion. People who eat yogurt regularly
tend to have fewer cases of urinary tract infections. Add some cottage cheese
to your diet too; research shows that eating regular amounts of low-fat dairy
products can reduce your risk of getting kidney stones.
7. Asparagus
Asparagus might not
sound appealing, but its high vitamin B content makes it a great food to add to
your diet. Kidney stones are caused by the buildup of fluids that collect in
the kidneys, causing them to swell. Vitamin B promotes fluid excretion from the
body, keeping kidneys free of toxins. Asparagus also boasts high levels of
iron, folate, copper, and potassium.
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