You can have gallstones and kidney stones without experiencing any symptoms. When symptoms do arise, however, they typically include severe pain. Gallstones develop when bile forms hard particles in your gallbladder. Kidney stones consist of crystallized minerals, such as uric acid. Medications or surgery are used to remove gallstones. Kidney stones usually pass through urine. Although dietary measures aren't known to eliminate kidney or gallstones, certain foods may help manage your symptoms.
Legumes
Legumes, including beans, lentils and split peas, provide rich amounts of protein, fiber and micronutrients such as iron and B-vitamins. Meat and seafood are high in purines -- substances that stimulate uric acid production in your body. For this reason, MayoClinic.com recommends emphasizing plant-based protein sources and cutting back on meat for improved uric acid levels. B-vitamins and iron may help manage gallstone symptoms. As fiber-rich foods, legumes also promote fullness between meals, which may ease the process of weight management. This attribute is important because excessive body weight increases your risk for gallbladder disease, kidney stones and gout -- a form of arthritis associated with high uric acid levels.
Fluids
The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse describes water as "inexpensive and calorie-free protection against kidney stones." Staying well-hydrated allows your body to flush excess uric acid out through urine. If you are prone to kidney stones, aim for enough fluid to produce at least 2 quarts of urine per day. Citrus juices, such as orange and lemon, may guard against uric acid stones. Avoid grapefruit juice, however, which may increase your risk. Incorporating skim or low-fat milk into your diet may help lower your uric acid levels.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain rich amounts of fiber, water and antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and vitamin C. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends eating antioxidant-rich foods, such as tomatoes, cherries, berries, bell peppers and squash, for improved gallbladder disease and kidney stone symptoms. Choose fresh, whole fruits over juices and canned, sweetened fruits, which contain less fiber. To maintain modest sodium intake, which may guard against kidney stone symptoms, avoid canned and frozen vegetables prepared with cheesy or buttery sauces.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish provides less saturated fat and cholesterol than fried, red and processed meats. As a valuable source of protein, incorporating fish into nutritious, balanced meals may enhance appetite control. The oil in cold water fish is a prime source of omega-3 fatty acids -- essential fats that may help reduce inflammation. To avoid high uric acid levels, MayoClinic.com recommends limiting fish and other animal protein to 4 to 6 oz. maximum, or 1 to 2 servings, per day. For added benefits, use heart-healthy cooking methods, such as baking, broiling, poaching and grilling fish atop nonstick cooking spray or olive oil.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Gout Diet; March 10, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Gallbladder Disease; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; Feb. 4, 2010
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Diet for Kidney Stone Prevention; May 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Kidney Stones; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; June 13, 2010
