Problems in the mechanisms of the kidneys, which have a vital role in our health, lead to the formation of kidney stones. Kidney stones reduce the quality of life of patients, causing them to experience unbearable pain. Although the exact cause of kidney stones is not known, many factors, from nutrition to genetics, from geography to gender, may cause the formation of kidney stones.
WHAT ARE KIDNEY STONE SYMPTOMS?
Patients often describe the pain caused by kidney stones as “flank pain”. Apart from this pain, symptoms of kidney stones include:
- pain when urinating
- blood in the urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- frequent urination
- Difficulty urinating or urinating in small amounts
- fever and chills
FOODS THAT CAN CAUSE KIDNEY STONE
LIMIT SALT CONSUMPTION
The table salt we consume every day allows the formation of kidney stones. Excessive salt consumption increases the absorption of calcium in the intestines. This increases the risk of stone formation. Another effect is that it increases the amount of calcium in the urine. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid foods high in sodium.
STAY AWAY FROM FOODS HIGH SODIUM
High sodium levels in the body can encourage calcium deposits in the urine. Avoid adding salt to foods and check labels on processed foods to see how much sodium they contain. Fast food can be high in sodium, but so can regular restaurant food. As much as possible, ask not to add salt to the food you order from the menu. Also, be mindful of what you drink. Some vegetable juices are quite high in sodium.
LEGUMES CONTAINING PHOSPHORUS
Beans and lentils, which contain high levels of phosphorus, are among the foods that kidney patients should avoid. These foods, especially canned foods, may have been exposed to excessive salt. That means too much sodium and phosphorus.
DRIED FRUITS
Dried fruits after many processes contain high levels of potassium and sugar. Therefore, these foods can also be harmful for kidney and diabetes patients.
ANIMAL FOODS DANGEROUS
Reduce your animal protein intake. Many protein sources, such as red meat, chicken, poultry, and eggs, increase the amount of uric acid you produce. Eating large amounts of protein also reduces a chemical in the urine called citrate. The task of citrate is to prevent the formation of kidney stones. You can consume quinoa, tofu (bean curd), hummus, chia seeds and yogurt as alternatives to animal protein. If you eat foods containing oxalates, always make sure to eat or drink a source of calcium with them. This will help the oxalate bind to calcium during digestion before it reaches your kidneys.