Kidney Stones: What Foods should you Avoid?

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Our kidneys do a lot of roles in our body. This reason alone makes it clear that this organ is indeed very vital in our survival. Unfortunately, our kidneys are also prone to experiencing diseases and abnormalities just like any other organ in our body. In fact, kidneys are always at high risk for problems since this internal body part is the one that deals with the elimination of wastes from the body as well as the cleansing of the blood. This makes the kidneys in constant contact with the harmful components of the body. In addition to this, our kidneys are also prone to developing stones inside its tubes. These stones can interfere with the normal functioning of the kidney, which could even alter its health. These stones could also cause untoward symptoms such as blood in the urine and severe pain on the lower sides of the back. Because of these unpleasant things about our kidneys, it is necessary for us to have a proper diet and determine what types of food you should avoid.

How do kidney stones form?

The health of our kidneys mainly reacts or depends on the type of lifestyle and diet we opt to have. It is already proven by many experts and countless research studies that the food we take in can greatly affect the condition and the functioning of our precious kidneys. This could be very well applied in the case of kidney stones. Kidney stones also come in various types; however, one of the most common is said to be made of calcium oxalate. This makes a lot of us think that having an intake of foods rich in calcium is a no-no. However, normal calcium intake in our diet actually helps in lowering down the possibility of having kidney stones. This is because the high oxalate output is basically the one that predisposes to the formation of kidney stones. On the other hand, calcium is the one that helps in binding the oxalates found in the gastrointestinal tract thus preventing its absorption and as well as its excretion.

What foods should you avoid?

When stones are the present problem, it is very important for us to have a high intake of fluids, particularly water. Water is considered to be the best solution in preventing the occurrence of any of the stones since it replenishes the kidneys very well. It is a must that at least 2 to 4 liters of water is consumed every day. But what are the foods to avoid in when you have kidney stones? The type of food to avoid also depends on the type of stone we have. About 75 to 80 percent of stones are made of calcium oxalate, while 10 to 15 percent are made from struvite. The remaining 5 to 10% is made from uric acid.

If case calcium oxalate is the problem, foods rich in oxalates must be avoided. These foods include spinach, beans, beets, rhubarb, berries, celery, okra, green pepper, grapes, and peanuts. Meat and meat products should also be avoided along with several processed foods including grits, marmalade, peanut butter, and cereals. Beverages containing alcohol and caffeine must also be reduced. As for the uric acid stones, the foods to avoid are quite similar to those for kidney stones.