Breaking Down the Pain: Tips to Prevent Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form inside your kidneys. They are made up of minerals and salts that can crystalise and clump together over time. Kidney stones can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, and can cause serious medical complications if left untreated.

If you're concerned about developing kidney stones, there are a number of things you can do to help prevent them. Here are some tips to help you reduce your risk of kidney stones:

1. Drink plenty of water. One of the most important things you can do to prevent kidney stones is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help flush out the minerals and salts that can form into stones. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and more if you're physically active or live in a hot climate.

2. Watch your diet. Certain foods can increase your risk of kidney stones, while others can help prevent them. Foods high in oxalates, such as spinach, rhubarb, beets, peanuts, and chocolate, should be eaten in moderation. However, cutting out these foods completely is not beneficial for overall health and, alone, won't reduce the likelihood of forming kidney stones. Instead, pair oxalate-rich foods with calcium-rich foods or beverages when consuming a meal. This will allow the oxalate and calcium to bind in the stomach and intestines before they reach the kidneys, reducing the likelihood that kidney stones will form.

3. Limit your sodium intake. Eating too much salt can lead to an increase in the amount of calcium in your urine, which can increase your risk of kidney stones. Be mindful of your salt intake and try to limit processed and packaged foods.

4. Exercise regularly. Exercise can help prevent kidney stones by improving your overall health and reducing your risk of obesity, which is a known risk factor for kidney stones.

5. Avoid certain supplements. Some supplements, such as vitamin C and calcium, can increase your risk of kidney stones if taken in excess. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, and follow the recommended dosage.

If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, such as sharp pain in your back or side, blood in your urine, or nausea and vomiting, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Kidney stones can be treated, but early intervention is key to preventing serious complications.