Kidney Stones: Foods High in Oxalates to Avoid for Prevention

Kidney stones can affect anyone, with calcium oxalate stones being the most common type. If you experience pain in your kidneys or back, it could be a sign of stones. To reduce the risk, it’s advisable to limit foods high in oxalates, which contribute to stone formation.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>

According to the National Kidney Foundation, not all kidney stones are the same. While calcium oxalate stones are the most prevalent, uric acid stones are also common. A common misconception is that calcium oxalate stones are composed primarily of calcium, but in reality, they mainly consist of oxalate.

Consuming too much salt increases the risk of kidney stones because sodium raises calcium levels in the urine. The kidneys filter out the excess calcium, which can then form stones. To lower your risk, it’s important to limit your intake of high-sodium foods.

Interestingly, reducing calcium intake can actually increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones. The National Kidney Foundation emphasizes that maintaining a diet rich in calcium is important for preventing stone formation.

Certain foods, like peanuts, spinach, beets, Swiss chard, chocolate, and radishes, are high in oxalates and can promote the formation of calcium oxalate stones. People with a history of these stones should cut back on these foods. Eating calcium-rich foods alongside oxalate-rich ones can help, as calcium binds with oxalates in the stomach or intestines, reducing their accumulation in the kidneys.

Kidney stones can cause various symptoms, including pain on one side of the waist, pain radiating to the thigh, blood in the urine, chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in urine color. If you experience any of these, it’s important to seek medical attention.