Foods That Will Help Pass Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are a common reaction to the collection of urinary wastes when the kidneys are not functioning properly. Because the kidneys work to filter out toxins, they can become blocked when stressed by diet or other physical considerations, and mineral deposits can begin to collect until finally they block the flow of urine. When these deposits increase in size, they become stone-like, causing painful symptoms such as lower back pain, pain in the groin, blood in the urine and discomfort while urinating. Kidney stones are generally composed of calcium and oxalate, uric acid, cysteine or struvite, which comes from urinary tract infections.

Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables, due to their fiver content, are important for helping the body pass kidney stones. Green peas, pumpkin and squash, cauliflower, cabbage, turnips and tomatoes are ideal vegetables to add to the daily menu. Made as fresh salads or lightly steamed, they will help cleanse the system while clearing the way for the kidneys to function more effectively. The higher chlorophyll content of vegetables such as asparagus, parsley and wheat grass is also very beneficial.

Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruits are essential for assisting the body in cleansing and passing kidney stones. Grapes, peaches, pears, pineapples, lemons, papayas, guavas and cranberries contain elements to help break down the acids that contribute to kidney stone formation. Watermelon is one of the best fruits for detoxifying the body. Freshly squeezed lemon in water before each meal is another way to help detoxify the system, providing it with a high dose of alkalinity, which makes it easier for acidic stones to dissolve.

Fiber

Foods rich in fiber help to sweep out toxins while helping to rid the body of the excess calcium, oxalates and other acids that contribute to kidney stones. Unrefined oats and bran are excellent breakfast choices if you have, or want to avoid, kidney stones.

Herbs

There are a host of herbs that help the kidneys to function properly while also assisting them in dissolving stones. These include nettle, bearberry, cleavers, corn silk, crampbark, gravel root, kava kava and hydrangia. Fresh basil leaves strengthen the kidneys, and are delicious when blended with purified water and a small amount of honey.

Water

The more purified water you can drink, the better the chance of flushing out kidney stones. Two liters of water a day should be the goal. There are cases where kidney stones form due to the body becoming dehydrated, so make sure you keep yourself flush with the benefits of pure water.

Tips

Try to eat only organically grown fruits and vegetables. This way you are not adding toxins created by pesticides and other contaminants, which can add insult to injury in the case of kidney stones.

Warnings

There are many warnings against eating excess calcium if you suffer from kidney stones. In this case, calcium supplements may be cause for concern, but not calcium found in foods. Consult your health provider if you have any doubts. Consult the herbal specialist in your local health food store if you have any concerns about any of the herbs listed above.