Importance of Hydration for Kidney Stones
Water Consumption is vital when dealing with calcium oxalate kidney crystals
Drinking too little water is a major factor contributing to calcium oxalate crystals. Drinking extra water dilutes the substances in urine that lead to calcium oxalate crystal formation. Drinking water is good for the kidneys and proper hydration can help reduce stones. While being dehydrated is not a kidney stone symptom, dehydration is certainly a major cause.
Drinking water is good for the kidneys and what are good drinks for the kidneys?
Strive to drink enough fluids to pass 1 ½ to 2 liters of urine a day, which is roughly six to eight standard 8-ounce cups. It may help to include some citrus beverages, like lemonade and orange juice. The citrate in these beverages helps block calcium oxalate kidney crystal formation.
A note about exercise and stones
While activities like saunas, yoga and exercise may be good for your health, they can also may lead to kidney crystals. This is because dehydration, due to sweating, is major contributing factor to kidney crystals. More sweating means less urine production. Less urine production means more mineral concentration in your urine which is a pre-cursor to stone formation.
One of the best measures you can take to avoid kidney stones is to drink plenty of water, leading you to urinate a lot. This is especially true at the first sign of kidney stone symptoms. Be sure to stay well hydrated when engaging in exercise or activities that cause a lot of sweating.
Learn More: Does hydration help reduce kidney stones? | What are drinks good for the kidneys?
