BY CHISOM IBEMERE
More than three million people seek treatment for symptoms related to kidney stones yearly. Kidney stone are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the human kidneys. It comes with a lot of pains and other symptoms. There are amazing foods that can be incorporated in our diets that could help to eliminate the occurrence and accumulation of kidney stones in the body.
Water, technically not a superfood, staying well-hydrated is crucial in preventing kidney stones. Drinking plenty of water helps dilute urine and flush out waste products from the kidneys, reducing the risk of stone formation.
Consuming Citrus fruit such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. They contain citrate, a compound that can help prevent kidney stone formation by binding to calcium and preventing oxalate crystals from forming.
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard is an amazing vegetables for the general body health. They are rich in magnesium which aids in the prevention and formation of calcium-based kidney stones by binding to oxalate in the digestive tract, reducing its absorption.
Berries including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants which are great source of fiber. Eating berries can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to kidney stone formation.
Watermelon is an amazing fruit with great water content and also contains a compound called lycopene, which has been shown to help prevent the formation of certain types of kidney stones.
Cranberriesare great in the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can increase the risk of kidney stones. They contain compounds that can help prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls.
Legumes such as lentils, beans, and chickpeas contains loads of dietary fiber and plant protein. Incorporating legumes in your diet can help reduce the risk of kidney stones by reducing calcium excretion through urine.
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats and contains antioxidants that can help protect against kidney stone formation. Using olive oil as a cooking oil or in dressings can provide these benefits.
Almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are varieties of nuts and seeds which contains loads of minerals like magnesium that prevent calcium-based kidney stones. They are also a good source of healthy fats and fiber.
These foods and more are encouraged to be taken as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle. Any history of kidney stones or any underlying medical conditions, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.
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