Kidney stones are solid crystalline mineral deposits that form in your kidneys or urinary tract. They can vary in size, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Kidney stones can develop when certain substances in your urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, become highly concentrated and form crystals. These crystals can then clump together and grow into larger stones over time. The composition of kidney stones can vary, with the most common types being calcium oxalate stones and uric acid stones. Symptoms of kidney stones may include severe pain in the back, side, lower abdomen, or groin, along with nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine. Treatment options depend on the size and type of the stone and may include pain management, increased fluid intake, medication, or procedures such as lithotripsy or surgery to remove or break up the stones.

If you notice signs and symptoms of kidney stones, visit us at Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center and consult with the best nephrologists and urologists in East New York.

Prevention of kidney stones can include lifestyle change, medications, or a combination of both. Here are some of the lifestyle habits you can try  to prevent kidney stones:

• Staying hydrated — Aim to drink enough water to produce at least 2 liters of urine per day. This can help in keeping your urine diluted, it also reduces the concentration of minerals that can form stones.
• Balanced diet — A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential nutrients and fiber while helping to maintain your overall kidney health.
• Limit oxalate-rich foods — While it’s important to limit oxalate-rich foods, you don’t need to avoid them entirely. Instead, moderate your intake and pair them with calcium-rich foods to help reduce oxalate absorption.
• Moderate protein intake — Choose lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, and plant-based proteins like beans and lentils. This helps reduce the load on your kidneys and minimizes the risk of stone formation.
• Monitor sodium intake — Read food labels carefully and choose low-sodium alternatives when possible. Avoid processed and packaged foods, which tend to be high in sodium.
• Maintain a healthy weight — Adopting a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise not only lowers your risk of kidney stones but also reduces your risk of other chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
• Control your blood pressure — Follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, which can help lower your blood pressure. Additionally, limit alcohol and caffeine intake, as they can raise your blood pressure levels.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol — While moderate consumption of caffeine and alcohol is generally safe, excessive intake can lead to dehydration, which increases your risk of kidney stone formation.
• Increase citrus intake — Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes contain citrate, which prevents the formation of certain types of kidney stones. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon or lime to your water or meals.
• Regular exercise — Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. This not only helps you maintain a healthy weight but also improves your overall kidney function and reduces your risk of stone formation.

Aside from the lifestyle habits that can help you prevent kidney stones, there are also foods you can consider incorporating into your diet that can help you prevent kidney stones:

• Water — Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Aim to produce at least 2 liters of urine daily to help prevent stone formation and help you pass the small stones.
• Citrus fruits — Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are rich in citrate, which can help prevent certain types of kidney stones. Include these fruits in your diet or drink freshly squeezed citrus juices.
• Calcium-rich foods — Despite common belief, calcium is important in preventing certain types of kidney stones. Incorporate calcium-rich foods such as low-fat dairy products, fortified plant-based milk alternatives, and leafy greens like kale and broccoli.
• Whole grains — Choose whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa over refined grains. Whole grains are high in fiber, which can you help prevent constipation and reduce your risk of certain types of kidney stones.
• Fruits and vegetables — Opt for a variety of fruits and vegetables, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, be cautious with high-oxalate vegetables like spinach, beets, and Swiss chard, and limit consumption if you are prone to oxalate-based kidney stones.
• Lean proteins — Include lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes in your diet. Limit red meat, organ meats, and high-purine foods, which can increase your risk of uric acid stones.
• Low-sodium foods — Reduce your sodium intake by choosing fresh or minimally processed foods over canned, packaged, or processed options. Season meals with herbs, spices, and lemon juice instead of salt.
• Fluids other than water — In addition to water, you can consume other hydrating fluids such as herbal teas and fruit-infused water. However, limit or avoid beverages high in sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can contribute to stone formation.
• Moderate oxalate foods — While it’s essential to limit high-oxalate foods, you don’t need to eliminate them entirely. Instead, moderate your intake and pair them with calcium-rich foods to help reduce oxalate absorption.
• Portion control — Watch your portion sizes, especially when it comes to foods high in protein, sodium, and oxalates. Eating balanced meals and snacks can help prevent overconsumption of these potentially problematic nutrients.

If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stone, don’t hesitate to look for urologist near you. Get evaluated early on so you can prevent complications and get treatment as soon as possible. At Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center, our team of urologists in Brooklyn, NY will work with you in managing your disease and your quality of life. To schedule an appointment, please visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com/.