Kidney stones, medically known as renal lithiasis, are hard deposits that develop in your kidneys. Kidney stones are composed of a combination of acid salts and minerals, although the specific substances may differ. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse notes that kidney stones are among the most common urinary tract disorders.
Types of Kidney Stones
Most kidney stones develop from more than one type of acid salt or mineral. The most common type is a calcium kidney stone. Calcium stones are composed of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. Struvite kidney stones are another type of stone, usually caused by an infection in the urinary tract. Uric acid kidney stones form from the waste product uric acid, and are more common in people with other underlying medical conditions or those following a high-protein diet, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Proper Diet
The type of kidney stone you experienced will determine the dietary changes you should incorporate to prevent their recurrence. If you had a calcium kidney stone, you should avoid consuming too much sodium. The National Kidney Foundation explains that sodium stimulates the release of calcium in your urine. Excess calcium in your urine increases your risk of developing another calcium kidney stone. If you are prone to calcium kidney stones, your sodium intake should be limited to between 2,000 and 2,300 mg of sodium per day.
If you had an oxalate kidney stone, avoid foods that are high in this substance. High oxalate foods include peanuts, tea, beets, rhubarb, berries, beans, coffee, spinach, oranges and sweet potatoes. Uric acid kidney stones can be prevented by reducing your intake of animal proteins, such as meat, poultry, eggs and dairy.
Importance of Water
Consume an adequate amount of water to prevent the recurrence of kidney stones, as well as to help eliminate any current kidney stones from your body. Water helps dilute your urine and promote urination, which can flush out your body. The National Kidney Foundation recommends drinking at least 3 to 4 quarts of water every day. If you live in a hot climate, increase the amount to make up for water loss from perspiration.
Other Treatment
Many kidney stones can be successfully treated with the right diet and no medical intervention. Small kidney stones pass through the ureter, the narrow tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, and are eliminated from the body in your urine. If the kidney stone is abnormally large or blocking the ureter, however, surgical removal may be necessary.
