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LMU 255 – Kidney Stones: A Dietary Solution for Prevention and Recurrence

LMU-255

Kidney Stones: A Dietary Solution for Prevention and Recurrence

Source: Mayo Clinic Proceedings (August 1, 2022)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (August 24, 2022)

Introduction:

Kidney stones are infamous for their excruciating pain, affecting around 12% of the global population, according to a 2018 report in Advances in Urology. What’s even more alarming is that 30% of those who have experienced a kidney stone are at risk of a painful recurrence. However, recent research has uncovered a dietary approach that could be the key to preventing these agonizing stones from forming again.

The Kidney Stone Conundrum

Kidney stones can be attributed to a variety of factors, with calcium oxalate stones being the most prevalent type. Historically, it was widely believed that excessive calcium intake, including calcium supplements, was a culprit in kidney stone formation. But new insights from a 2022 review by Mayo Clinic researchers have reshaped our understanding of how to prevent these painful stones and their recurrence.

The Power of Calcium and Potassium

The study, which examined questionnaires from kidney stone patients over nearly a decade, delivered a surprising revelation: a low intake of calcium and potassium significantly elevates the risk of recurrent stone formation. Contrary to past beliefs, it appears that insufficient calcium intake, not excessive, is linked to kidney stone development. In fact, the researchers recommend a daily intake of 1200 mg of calcium to prevent kidney stones, a quantity that also happens to be beneficial in reducing the risk of osteoporosis. The best source for this essential mineral is healthy foods like non-fat or 1% yogurt, although dietary supplements may be necessary to meet this target.

Sourcing Adequate Potassium

The researchers did not pinpoint a specific potassium requirement, but health authorities typically recommend a daily intake of 3500-4700 mg. Fortunately, a wide array of potassium-rich fruits and vegetables, including bananas, oranges, grapefruits, apricots, mushrooms, peas, cucumbers, zucchini, and melons like cantaloupe and honeydew, can help you meet this goal. Additionally, fruits and vegetables contain other nutrients that further reduce the risk of kidney stones, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic research team.

Hydration and Caffeine: A Formidable Duo

Maintaining proper hydration is also crucial. The study revealed that fluid intake below 3,400 ml per day, roughly equivalent to nine 12 oz glasses of fluids, is associated with first-time kidney stone formation. Interestingly, caffeine intake plays a role in prevention by acting as a diuretic, diluting minerals in the urine, and reducing their propensity to bond with oxalic acid, a major component in stone formation.

Conclusion: A Recipe for Kidney Stone Prevention

Kidney stones are undoubtedly a painful and concerning condition. The findings from this recent research underscore the importance of calcium intake, a diverse selection of fruits and vegetables to acquire potassium, maintaining adequate hydration, and even indulging in caffeine-rich beverages like coffee and tea to keep these troublesome stones at bay. With these dietary strategies, you can protect yourself from kidney stone development and the agonizing recurrences.

References:

  1. Alelign T and Petros B. “Kidney stone disease: An update on current concepts.” Adv Urol. 2018.
  2. “Diets higher in calcium and potassium may help prevent recurrent symptomatic kidney stones.” Science Daily, August 1, 2022.
  3. John Lieske, MD, director, O’Brien Urology Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.; Gary Curhan, MD, professor, Harvard Medical School; Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Aug. 1, 2022.
 
Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,
 

Dr. Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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