A kidney stone is a dense mass that forms from crystals that divert from urine in the urinary tract. According to The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, kidney stones are one of the most painstaking urologic conditions a person can experience. Most stones pass through the body during urination, though some require minor surgery. Dietary factors do play a role in the development, treatment and prevention of kidney stones.
Excessive Protein
According to experts at the University of Michigan Health System, diets high in protein, particularly those also high in fat and sodium, increase one's risk for kidney stones. For this reason a low-fat, reduced-protein diet may be recommended. If your doctor has requested these dietary guidelines, start by reducing your portion sizes and quantities of meat, poultry and dairy products. Avoid processed meats such as sausages, bacon and lunch meats. At each meal, incorporate one small portion of a protein-based food. A standard serving size of chicken, poultry or fish is about three ounces, or about the size of a deck of cards. Use this as your maximum serving size guide at meals.
Legumes are another valuable source of protein, fiber and complex carbohydrate. One-half cup of legumes can provide adequate protein at a given meal and is lower in protein than meat, poultry, eggs and fish.
Foods Containing Oxalate
According to digestion experts at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia when oxalate, a natural substance found in particular foods, is found in one's urine, kidney stones may develop. If you are at risk for kidney stones, limit or avoid intake of foods containing oxalate. This includes berries, cranberries, green beans, beets, spinach, squash, tomatoes, nuts, chocolate and tea.
Since various dark green vegetables and other healthy foods oxalate, yet are nutritious foods overall, be sure to incorporate a variety of alternate vegetables into your diet so you can reap plentiful nutrients and fiber. Keep a list of oxalate-containing foods in your wallet or on your refrigerator to ensure you avoid the appropriate culprits.
Grapefruit Juice
University of Michigan Health System specialists also advise proper hydration, as lack of water intake is the number one cause for kidney stone development. Grapefruit juice, on the other hand, has been known to cause the condition. Drink at least 8 to 10 cups of water per day, or at least 64 ounces and more if you are highly active.
Fruits, vegetables, pure juices, milk and broth-based soups also provide hydration. Incorporate a variety of these foods, those that fit within your dietary needs and guidelines, to reap most benefit. If you find you are thirsty throughout the day, you are likely long past dehydrated.
Excessive Sodium
High-sodium diets are also linked with kidney stone development since salt affects calcium build-up in the urine. The University of Maryland Medical Center experts suggest that those diagnosed with calcium stones, or kidney stones comprised of calcium deposits, keep sodium intake to a mere 3 grams daily. To do this, avoid foods that contain more than 600 milligrams per serving. To reduce overall sodium intake, do not add table salt as seasoning to your foods. Instead, opt for natural herbs or low-sodium salt substitute. Commercially prepared soups, chips, crackers and frozen entrees tend to be high in sodium. As an alternate, prepare your own soups, snack foods and entrees or choose natural, low-sodium varieties when shopping.
