Calcium oxalate stones are the most common type of kidney stones and cause many people pain and anxiety. Whether you’ve suffered from kidney stones or want to do everything possible to prevent them, you may be wondering about the top kidney stone protector. There are actually quite a few dietary guidelines, supplements, and lifestyle choices that can help you avoid kidney stones. The following are six effective calcium oxalate stone prevention tips.
1. Avoid High Oxalate Foods
When considering the right foods to prevent kidney stones, you need to consider which foods are high in oxalate. Calcium oxalate forms when minerals combine with a compound called oxalate, which is found in many foods. When you want to prevent kidney stones, you should reduce or avoid high oxalate foods, which for example include the following.
- Sweet Potatoes
- Tofu, soy milk and other soy products.
- Spinach and other dark leafy greens.
- Ice Tea
- Beans
- Wheat Bran
- Rhubarb
- Oranges
In order to understand which foods to avoid, you’ll need to do research and learn the oxalate content of the foods you typically eat. It may take some effort to alter your diet.
2. Limit Your Intake of Animal Protein
Animal protein such as red meat, poultry, and eggs increases the amount of uric acid in your body, which can contribute to the formation of uric acid kidney stones. A high-protein diet also reduces levels of urinary citrate, the chemical in urine that helps prevent calcium oxalate stones from forming.
People trying to lose weight often follow high protein, low carb diets, which may not be ideal for preventing kidney stones. Your body needs a certain amount of protein, but don’t exceed the recommended daily allowance, which is .36 grams of protein per pound of body weight
3. Stay Hydrated
Water is perhaps the top kidney stone protector. Staying hydrated is essential for preventing calcium oxalate stones. When you drink water you make it easier for your body to flush out any smaller stones that may be present and it also keeps fluids moving so your body is less likely to form stones.
Keep in mind that not all fluids are equally good for you. Alcohol, energy drinks, and even excessive amounts of coffee and tea can dehydrate you. Teas are high in oxalates. A certain amount of fruit juice is good, though be careful about fruits such as oranges that are high oxalate. Some juices, such as pomegranate and wheat grass are good for kidney health. You can also add the high citric acid of lemon to water for refreshment and as additional help in fighting kidney stones.
4. Get Gentle Exercise
Getting regular exercise is also helpful in preventing kidney stones. If you have a severe case of kidney stones, you need rest. However, if you’re able to be up and about, you can benefit from gentle exercise. Staying fit is important for overall health as well as for kidney health. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to health problems. You can do walking, yoga, light aerobics, and even moderate strength training. If you’re not sure what type of exercise is safe, ask your doctor.
5. Take Natural Supplements to Prevent Kidney Stones
There are supplements that can help prevent kidney stones. Look for dietary supplements that have shown in laboratory studies to stop the rate of calcium oxalate crystal growth and has US patents.
In addition, the citrate in lemons is a kidney stone fighter. Mixing lemon juice in your water or drinking plain freshly squeezed lemon juice will help fight kidney stone growth.
6. Be Aware of Medications That Can Cause Kidney Stones
Some common medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, can contribute to calcium oxalate stones. These include decongestants, steroids, diuretics, anticonvulsants, and protease inhibitors. If you are taking any of these, talk to your doctor if there are any other options.
Make an Effort to Prevent Calcium Oxalate Stones
If you currently suffer from kidney stones, your health care provider can recommend the best calcium oxalate stone treatment. However, it’s also good to think long-term and find ways to prevent kidney stones from recurring. The simple diet and lifestyle changes listed above can help you avoid this problem.