Kidney stones are hard mineral-salt deposits that accumulate in the urinary tract, particularly in the kidneys. About 80 percent of these stones are primarily made up of calcium, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Kidney stones can result in symptoms such as abdominal pain, frequent urination, fever, chills and blood in the urine. The Balches and other alternative medicine advocates believe that dietary choices may affect the formation of kidney stones. Dietary changes should not replace medical attention. Check with your doctor before altering diet to treat or prevent kidney stones.
Step 1
Drink filtered water instead of coffee or soft drinks, according to MayoClinic.com. Increasing water intake may help the body flush out minerals before they crystallize and turn into kidney stones. People with a history of kidney stones should consume enough water to produce about 2.5L of urine per day. The amount of water needed depends on lifestyle, climate and other factors.
Step 2
Consume beans, legumes, seeds and nuts. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," these foods contain a chemical compound called arginine, which may promote kidney health and prevent the formation of mineral deposits.
Step 3
Limit intake of foods that contain oxalic acid, such as spinach, okra, soybeans, Swiss chard and chocolate, according to MayoClinic.com. Oxalic acid impairs the body's ability to use calcium and can promote calcium deposits in the kidneys and urinary tract.
Step 4
Include raw fruits and vegetables, except those that contain oxalic acid, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Raw garlic, bananas, asparagus, parsley, papaya and watermelon contain vitamins and minerals that may help keep the urinary tract clear.
Step 5
Replace proteins derived from animal sources, such as beef, pork and poultry, with plant-based proteins. According to MayoClinic.com, reducing intake of animal proteins may reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. Also, limit intake of sodium to 1,500mg or less per day. Choose plant proteins such as sunflower seeds, chickpeas, black beans and almonds.
Things You'll Need
- Filtered water
- Beans
- Legumes
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Raw fruits
- Raw vegetables
- Plant-based proteins
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis Balch, CNC.; 1997
- MayoClinic.com: Kidney Stones
