Kidney stones are not something most people think about. However, if you have experienced them yourself, or you know someone who has, you will do just about anything to avoid going through the same ordeal (again). The excruciating pain that kidney stones bring on is reason enough to make prevention a top priority.
The good news is you do not need a dramatic lifestyle overhaul to keep kidney stones at bay. Weaving just a few simple habits into your daily routine can go a long way toward dodging them altogether.
Read on to learn about some of the best lifestyle changes you can start making today to lower your risk of developing kidney stones and where to find top-tier kidney stone treatment without surgery in West Orange, NJ.
Drinking Plenty of Water
Staying adequately hydrated is one of the most effective lifestyle strategies for preventing the onset or recurrence of kidney stones.
But how much water is enough? There is no hard-and-fast guideline for how many glasses of water you need to drink in a day. The amount appropriate for you depends on various factors, including your environment, activity level, overall health, and metabolism.
The color of your urine is an excellent hydration indicator. Urine that is either clear or pale yellow is a sign that you are hydrated. Urine that is dark yellow and has a pungent odor means you have to drink more water.
If you have recurring kidney stones, experts recommend aiming for more than 3 liters throughout the day, every day.
Cutting Back on Salt Intake
High sodium levels increase the amount of calcium in your urine which, in turn, raises your risk for kidney stones. To play it safe, try to keep your sodium intake under 2,300 milligrams a day (that is about one teaspoon of salt).
Cutting back on salt intake can be tricky, as salt hides in many common, everyday foods, such as processed meats, potato chips, canned food, frozen dinners, and restaurant meals. The best way to reduce your salt intake is to read nutrition labels carefully, eat fresh foods, cook your meals at home, and swap out salty snacks for fresh fruit or unsalted nuts.
Avoiding Sodas and Other Sugary Beverages
If you are hooked on sodas or other sugary drinks and looking for a way to curb your addiction, this is your sign. Sodas may be fizzy and fun, but they are brimming with sugar and phosphoric acid, both of which can promote kidney stone formation.
Additionally, steer clear of drinks flavored with high-fructose corn syrup, as they can also increase your risk.
If plain water is not your thing, consider adding lemon, cucumber, or even a few mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
Limiting Consumption of Animal Proteins
While animal proteins are chock-full of essential nutrients, too much of them can stir up trouble. Excessive consumption of animal proteins raises your uric acid levels and reduces your citrate levels, making you prone to kidney stones.
Your way forward is to swap in plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, tofu, or quinoa. They are easier on your kidneys and still pack a nutritional punch.
Being Cautious When Taking Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C is beneficial for your health, but too much of it can have undesirable effects. Taking high doses of calcium supplements (more than 2,000 mg a day), in particular, can make you susceptible to kidney stones.
Your safest course of action is to get enough vitamin C from your diet. Fill your plate with whole foods like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers. If you are already taking a daily supplement, check in with your doctor to make sure it is not doing more harm than good.
Kidney Stone Treatment Without Surgery in West Orange, NJ
If you are still battling kidney stones despite making these healthy lifestyle changes, but surgery is not the path you want to take, reach out to Dr. Sesan Egan, our board-certified urologist here at Hudson MD Group.
Dr. Egan is best known not only for his skills and expertise but also for his warm bedside manner and commitment to patient well-being. Whether this is your first time having kidney stones or your third, Dr. Egan can guide you toward the right solution. He stays up to date with the latest advancements in urology and takes a thoughtful approach to care, always aiming to resolve the issue altogether without the need for invasive procedures.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Egan, call us at (973) 705-4914. You may also use this secure online request form.
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