DIET DURING RENAL STONES:

Renal stones can be found in kidneys, ureter, urinary bladder, or urethra. These are formed when the urine becomes too concentrated with certain components which results in crystallization of these components. Crystals in urine stick together to form a hard mass of stone referred to as crystals.

The majority of urinary calculi (renal stone) are made up of calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, uric acid, or magnesium ammonium phosphate(struvite). Most common type in India is calcium oxalate. Recurrence of kidney stones is common.

SYMPTOMS:

  • Pain areas: in the back or side part of the body
  • Pain types: can be severe, sharp, or sudden in the abdomen
  • Pain circumstances: can occur during urination
  • Gastrointestinal: nausea or vomiting
  • Urinary: blood in the urine or frequent urination

CAUSES:

  1. There are many reasons behind renal stones but most important is dehydration or LACK OF INTAKE OF FLUIDS on a daily basis.
  2.  Overconsumption of foods rich in oxalates, (like spinach, wheat bran, mustard leaves, tomato sauce, peanuts, soybean, cocoa, coffee, cashew nuts) increases the risk of reoccurrence of calcium oxalate stones.
  3. Excess salt intake is also the main reason behind kidney stones. Table salt (sodium chloride)  is a rich source of sodium and is a major contributing factor in the formation of kidney stones.
  4. High sodium intake increases the risk of stone formation by increasing calcium levels and decreasing citrate (a stone inhibitor) levels in urine. These altered levels make it easier for stones to develop.
  5.  Higher intake of animal food like meat, fish, and poultry increases the risk of renal calculi as animal protein increases the acid load of urine.
  6. Deficiency of vitamin B6 also contributes to an increase in the risk of renal stones due to increased production of oxalic acid in the body.
  7. Obesity, hypertension and sedentary lifestyle.

DO’S AND DON’TS

In renal stones:

  • Restriction of animal protein like red meat, fish, sausages, beef, poultry products lessens the risk of renal stones.

  • Less intake of bakery products like cake, pastries, pieces of bread and beverages like soft drink, iced tea, canned juices help in preventing recurrence of stones.  



  • Salt Restriction: Daily salt intake should be reduced (less than 4 gms per day)in order to prevent reformation of kidney stones. Foods like canned food, salad dressings, biscuits, sausages, beverages should be avoided as these are high in sodium content.

  • Plenty of fluids is a great idea: like coconut water, lemon juice, barley water, vegetable soup, etc.