The Atkins diet, developed by Dr. Robert Atkins in the 1970s, focuses on a strict carbohydrate restriction, while allowing a high protein intake. High protein diets like the Atkins diet are a major risk factor in the development of a specific type of kidney stone called a uric acid stone. It is important to note that not everybody following the Atkins diet will get kidney stones.
Physiology
Protein-rich foods contain substances called purines, which are broken down into a waste product called uric acid in your body. Normally, uric acid dissolves in your blood and travels to the kidneys, where it is recognized as a waste product, filtered out of the blood and removed from your body through your urine. If you eat an excess amount of purine-rich foods, like on the Atkins diet, it creates an excess amount of uric acid in your blood. As a result, all of the uric acid is not able to dissolve, and instead, forms hard crystal masses. When these masses travel into your kidneys, they become uric acid kidney stones.
Treatment
Fortunately, most kidney stones do not require medical intervention. Small stones may pass on their own with increased water intake. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce any pain or discomfort. If stones are large or seem to be causing damage to the kidneys, medical treatment may be necessary. Treatment may involve a procedure called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, which uses sound waves to break a large stone into smaller pieces that your body can pass. If this is unsuccessful, the stone may need to be removed surgically.
Prevention
There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing uric acid kidney stones even while following the Atkins diet. In general, plant sources of protein, such as beans and nuts, are lower in purines than animal-based sources of protein. When following the Atkins diet, opt for plant proteins over meats whenever possible. Increasing your water intake can also help prevent the development of uric acid kidney stones. Drinking adequate amounts of water can help dilute the concentration of uric acid in your blood, as well as promote urination, which can help flush the uric acid out of your body. Aim to drink between 8 and 12 cups of water per day.
Considerations
Certain conditions increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Kidney stones are most likely to develop in men over the age of 40. A high body mass index, or BMI, also increases your risk of developing kidney stones. Those with a family history or personal history of kidney stones are also more likely to develop the condition. If you fall into any of these risk categories, you may want to consider a weight loss diet other than the Atkins diet.
