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Kidney stones are solid formations composed of salts and minerals that may cause severe pain during excretion through the urinary tract. Though a frequent medical problem, the good news is that they can usually be prevented with careful dietary and lifestyle habits. The risk of developing kidney stones increases with age, family history, and certain medical conditions, making it essential to be aware of the factors that contribute to their formation. Taking proactive steps can help mitigate the discomfort and complications associated with kidney stones. In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Mohit Khirbat, Consultant, Nephrology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram shared measures to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Ways To Prevent Kidney Stones

Drink Plenty Of Water

Drinking enough fluids is one of the easiest methods to guard against kidney stones. Water dilutes salts and minerals in the urine so that they will not crystallise into stones. Try to drink at least 8–10 glasses daily or more if you lose a lot of fluids through sweating.

Restrict Salt In Your Diet

Excessive sodium raises calcium excretion in urine, potentially leading to stone formation. Reduce processed foods, packaged snacks and added table salt to protect your kidneys.

ALSO READ: Doctor Lists Warning Signs Of Kidney Stones You Should Not Ignore

Don't Eliminate Calcium Altogether

Eliminating calcium from your diet altogether can actually increase your risk for stones. Eating foods with high levels of calcium in moderation is helpful because dietary calcium forms complexes with oxalate in the gut and slows its movement to the urine.

Watch Your Oxalate Intake

Foods like spinach, beets, nuts and chocolate are high in oxalates that can combine with calcium to form stones. Instead of eliminating them completely, limit their intake especially if you’ve had kidney stones earlier.

Choose More Plant-Based Proteins

A diet rich in animal proteins can elevate uric acid, which tends to cause uric acid stones. Eat more plant protein foods like lentils, beans and tofu.

Shun Sugar And Fizzy Drinks

Fizzy and sweet drinks have high levels of sugar and phosphoric acid, which tend to elevate kidney stone risk. Drink water or homemade fresh juices instead.

ALSO READ: Can Too Much Salt Actually Damage Your Kidneys? Know From Doctor

Maintain Healthy Weight

Excess weight interferes with the urine's acid balance, thereby providing conditions that are friendly to stones. Healthy diet with adequate exercise helps maintain weight and kidney function in order.

It's much simpler to avoid kidney stones than it is to treat them. Small but regular changes in diet and lifestyle contribute a great deal to healthy kidneys. If you're prone to stones, repeat visits with a nephrologist are a must.