5 Things You Can Do to Help Prevent Kidney Stones

If you’ve experienced kidney stones, then you know how painful they can be. Not only that — but they can also be a recurring nightmare. These small, hard mineral deposits can form in your kidneys and cause excruciating pain as they make their way through your urinary tract. 

But there’s good news. Board-certified internal medicine physician and nephrologist Deon Middlebrook, MD, is a kidney health expert at his self-named practice in Detroit, Michigan, who shares how you can take a proactive role in keeping kidney stones away. 

Here, he covers five steps you can take to help prevent kidney stones from forming in the first place.

1. Stay hydrated

One of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones is to pay attention to hydration. Dehydration is a leading cause of kidney stones because it allows minerals and salts to concentrate in your urine, forming crystals that can eventually become stones. 

To stay adequately hydrated, do your best to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. If you live in a hot climate or engage in strenuous physical activity, you may need even more. The goal is to keep your urine pale in color; if it's dark yellow, you're likely not drinking enough water.

2. Watch your diet

Diet plays a crucial role in kidney stone prevention. Limit certain foods that are high in oxalates, as these can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stone. 

Foods rich in oxalates include spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate. Cutting back on these foods or consuming them in moderation can help reduce your risk of developing kidney stones. In addition, a diet low in sodium and animal protein can also be beneficial in preventing stone formation.

3. Increase your citrus intake

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are rich in citrate, a natural inhibitor of kidney stone formation. Citrate helps prevent the formation of crystals in the urine and can even help break down small stones before they become problematic. 

Including citrus fruits in your diet or drinking citrus juices can be a tasty and effective way to reduce your risk of kidney stones.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of kidney stones. Extra body weight can lead to metabolic changes that promote stone formation. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce this risk. Aim to achieve and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) for your age and height.

5. Monitor your salt intake

High sodium intake can lead to increased calcium levels in your urine, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Manage your salt intake by avoiding overly processed and salty foods. Instead, opt for fresh, whole foods and use herbs and spices to season your meals. Reducing your sodium intake can benefit not only your kidneys but also your overall health.

By taking proactive measures and making some simple lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing kidney stones and gain the hope of enjoying a life free from the discomfort and inconvenience they cause.

If you have a history of kidney stones or other kidney concerns, call the friendly staff and book an appointment with Dr. Middlebrook, or use the online scheduling tool today.