Ten percent of Americans experience kidney stones, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Kidney stones cause pain that has been compared to labor pains in intensity. Numerous factors increase your risk for kidney stones, including a genetic predisposition, being male, carrying excess weight, dehydration and certain diets. If you are prone to kidney stones, certain foods and dietary habits may exacerbate your symptoms. Although salmon is nutritious, it can increase your likelihood of getting some types of kidney stones.
Potential Benefits
Salmon is a prime source of omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats that may help reduce inflammation associated with kidney stones and improve overall wellness, according to the UMMC. Salmon also provides a heart-healthy protein alternative to red and processed meats, which are high in saturated fat. Protein plays an important role in immune function, tissue repair and physical strength. It also enhances fullness between meals, which may ease the process of weight management.
Potential Risks
Kidney stones come in several forms. If you have uric acid kidney stones, which occur when excess uric acid forms crystals in your urinary tract, oily fish, such as salmon, may increase your symptoms. Salmon is high in purines, which occur naturally in most foods. Because your body produces uric acid while breaking them down, the more purines you consume, the greater your risk becomes for high uric acid levels. High uric acid levels lead to kidney stones and other conditions, such as gout, in some people. Smoked and canned salmon are also high in sodium. Consuming too much sodium increases your risk for all types of kidney stones.
Suggestions
If you are prone to uric acid kidney stones, the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse suggests limiting animal protein, including fish, to a maximum of 6 oz. per day. To maintain low sodium intake, choose fresh salmon, seasoned with natural herbs, garlic and lemon juice instead of salt. For heightened benefits, use heart-healthy cooking methods, such as baking, broiling and poaching.
Other Foods
Other foods may influence influence kidney stone symptoms. Spinach, nuts, rhubarb and wheat bran are high in oxalates, which may contribute to oxalate stone formation if you eat too much. If you tend to experience calcium oxalate stones, the NKUDIC recommends getting 800 mg of calcium from foods each day to guard against stones and for positive bone health. One cup of low-fat milk provides 300 mg of calcium. Other calcium-rich foods include kale, yogurt, fortified soy milk, tofu and almonds. Emphasizing fiber-rich foods, such as oats, barley, berries, beans and lentils, and limiting refined foods, such as white bread, candy and soft drinks, may also improve kidney stone symptoms.
