Natural ways to prevent kidney stones | Fusion - WeRIndia

Kidney stones are one of the most common health problems of the urinary tract suffered by many people. The problem is rising in India.

The reports of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) state that more than over 12% of Indians are suffering from the problem of kidney stones.

Genes play a major role in developing kidney stones. Obesity also increases the risk. Other risk factors include diabetes, hyperparathyroidism, intestinal surgery, and certain kidney diseases.

Though one cannot completely prevent the formation of kidney stones, one can lower the risk by eating the right food and drinking sufficient water.

Here is a list of some natural ways to prevent or lower the risk of kidney stones:

• Drink plenty of water to prevent kidney stones. If you do not drink adequate water, it will reduce your urine output, which means concentrated urine. The urine salts that do not dissolve may turn into stones.
• Avoid vitamin C supplements and calcium supplements, which may increase the risk. However, calcium-rich foods do not increase the risk. At the same time foods that are rich in vitamin C also do not increase the risk.
• Select your food items carefully. Though spinach, nuts, and other food high in oxalates are good for many people, those who are more prone to developing calcium oxalate stones should avoid them or limit their usage.
• Avoid the overconsumption of dairy products, as they may increase the chances of developing kidney stones. Also, limit your intake of animal protein.
• Some medicines and over-the-counter drugs increase the risk of kidney stones. These include antacids, diuretics, steroids, and certain medicines used for cancer, epilepsy and HIV. So, talk to your doctor before taking these medicines.
• Also, limit your salt and, thereby, sodium intake. In addition, avoid processed foods like chips, canned foods, and foods that contain monosodium glutamate, sodium nitrate, and sodium bicarbonate.

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