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Every year, more than half a million people report kidney stone problems. Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They form when certain substances in the urine such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid become concentrated enough to crystallise and form stones. While dietary and lifestyle factors play a key role in the formation of kidney stones, the habit of drinking excessive tea or coffee may increase the risk of the development of stones.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Udit Gupta, Consultant - Nephrologist, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, Vasant Kunj explained how excessive consumption of tea or coffee can cause kidney stones.

Can Too Much Tea Or Coffee Cause Kidney Stones?

Your diet has a significant impact on the risk of developing kidney stones. Research has shown that what you eat and how much you drink are directly related to your risk of developing kidney stones. Tea and coffee both contain compounds that can influence kidney stone formation, primarily due to their oxalate and caffeine. Drinking excessive amounts of black tea may increase the concentration of oxalates in the urine, raising the risk of stone formation. It also contains caffeine which can lead to dehydration. Reduced hydration causes urine to become more concentrated, increasing the risk of stone formation.

Ways To Prevent Kidney Stones?

Stay Hydrated- Drink 2-3 litres of water daily to keep urine diluted and flush out minerals that can form stones. Citrus juices like lemon water help by increasing citrate levels, which prevent stone formation. Dark-coloured urine indicates dehydration, so aim for pale yellow urine.

Reduce Sodium Intake- A high-sodium diet raises calcium levels in urine, increasing the risk of stones. Avoid processed foods, salty snacks and canned goods. Opt for home-cooked meals with herbs and natural seasonings to control salt intake.

Maintain A Balanced Diet- Include calcium-rich foods like dairy and leafy greens, as calcium binds to oxalates and prevents stones. Limit oxalate-rich foods such as spinach, nuts and chocolate. Reduce animal protein like red meat and eggs as they increase uric acid levels.

Limit Sugary And Carbonated Drinks- Sodas and sugary drinks contain phosphoric acid which may promote kidney stones. Instead, choose water, herbal teas or fruit-infused drinks to stay hydrated without increasing your risk.

Maintain A Healthy Weight- Obesity increases the risk of kidney stones. Regular exercise and a healthy diet help maintain a balanced weight and prevent stone formation.

ALSO READ: World Kidney Day 2025: 5 Everyday Habits That Can Cause Harm To Your Kidneys

ALSO READ: How Much Water You Should Consume To Maintain Kidney Health? Know From Urologist

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