Posted by Kidney stones are prevalent in the United States, and their treatments can be expensive. Nephrolithiasis referred to as kidney stone disease, is characterized by renal calculi. Stones form when the equilibrium between the dissolution and adhesion of salts in the urinary system and kidneys is disturbed. Urine components can crystallize in the kidneys, leading to kidney stones that can cause various complications.
Typically, kidney stones are caused by what you eat and how much water you consume. To avoid oxalate overload, you should limit your consumption of oxalate-rich foods, as it is one of the causes of nephrolithiasis. Diet plays an important role in the formation of kidney stones. Certain foods cause kidney stones that must be avoided. So, it is crucial to find out what foods cause kidney stones.
The present article sheds light on the foods that cause kidney stones. Keep on reading to discern such food components so that you can minimize your risk of developing kidney stones simply by avoiding them.
What Foods Cause Kidney Stones?
Calcium is present in urine and can react with other chemicals, such as oxalate and phosphorous, if the concentration of these compounds becomes high enough for them to solidify. Uric acid buildup is another possible cause of kidney stones. The breakdown of protein causes uric acid to accumulate. Your urinary tract was not designed to evacuate solids; therefore, it should not be surprising that passing kidney stones can be incredibly painful. Frequently, dietary adjustments are sufficient to prevent their occurrence.
Foods that cause kidney stones are rich in sodium, oxalate, protein, and vitamin C. They must be consumed in moderation and with a high calcium intake as it helps prevent oxalate or other mineral crystallization. The following are the nutrients responsible for stone formation.
Sodium
Sodium restriction is crucial for avoiding the formation of kidney stones. Limiting sodium intake decreases urinary calcium’s excretion by increasing the proximal tubular calcium’s reabsorption. Moreover, diuretics also decrease hypercalciuria by enhancing calcium reabsorption. On the other hand, food containing high sodium can lead to volume depletion, which in turn causes increased calcium and potassium excretion that alters urinary pH. It eventually increases the risk of stone formation.
Oxalates
Oxalates are the end product of various food components eliminated through the kidneys in the urine. However, extra oxalate combines with calcium leading to crystallization. The formation of oxalate stones damages the kidneys and, in severe cases, results in renal failure. Hence, it may pose life-threatening consequences. Find out if kidney stones can kill you or not.
Protein
A high protein diet results in a high concentration of ammonium and sulfate, decreasing the urine pH and making it more acidic. There is increased production of uric acid that causes hypercalciuria. These conditions are associated with an increased risk of kidney stone formation. So, it is important to consume protein in moderation to avoid nephrolithiasis since it is one of the foods that cause kidney stones.
Vitamin C
The metabolic pathway of vitamin C involves the formation of dehydroascorbic acid. This metabolite is then converted to oxalate, i.e., a risk factor for nephrolithiasis. Oxalate is excreted in the urine, and higher concentration leads to stone formation. So, excess vitamin C intake can increase the risk of developing stones. It is evident by research that vitamin C intake of more than 1,000 mg/d was associated with a 40% higher risk of kidney stone formation in men as compared to those who consumed vitamin C in moderation.
List of Foods that Cause Kidney Stones
The below list presents the food items that should be consumed carefully to avoid kidney stones.
Sodium Rich Food
- Canned or packaged food or meat
- Fast food
- Some seasonings and condiments
Oxalate Rich Food
- Nuts and nutty products
- Spinach
- Beets
- Okra
- Wheat bran
Calcium-rich foods or beverages alongside oxalate will help your body eliminate the oxalate without forming kidney stones. For instance, you should sprinkle low-fat cheese over your spinach salad. Adding nuts or berries to yogurt can also be beneficial. Milk does not produce kidney stones.
Protein Rich Food
- Organ meat, pork, beef, and chicken
- Fish
- Eggs
Instead of animal protein, it is suggested to consume vegetarian alternatives like legumes, soy foods, and sunflower seeds.
Even though various risk factors that enhance the possibility of kidney stones have been identified, the development of stones cannot be ascribed to a single cause. Frequently, a high concentration of stone-forming compounds in urine results from a persistent medical condition. Besides certain foods, a second major factor contributing to kidney stone production is inadequate fluid consumption.
Conclusion
Kidney stones are a common cause of terrible pain. Diet can help both treat kidney stones and keep them from happening in the first place. So, you must know what foods cause kidney stones. It is important to drink enough water, avoid meals high in salt, and eat foods high in oxalate.
Sometimes kidney stones can be asymptomatic, and you may remain unaware of them. So, screening yourself to detect nephrolithiasis in its early stage is crucial. Early detection helps in early intervention to prevent grave consequences.