Kidney Stones are more common in the summertime – Here are 4 simple ways to prevent them
Not every kidney disease has to be based on family history. Sometimes, it can also be due to our poor dietary habits and less water intake. One significant example of such a disease is kidney stones.
Experts claim that over 12% of the Indian population suffers from kidney disease and most of these cases are during summertime. In this article, we explore five tips to avoid kidney stones in summer.
- Drink plenty of fluids
Our body constantly loses water through sweat and urine – especially during summertime.
Top this with prolonged dehydration and you will have accumulated a lot of waste and minerals in your body. This eventually results in the formation of kidney stones in summertime.
Nephrologists suggest that people must drink at least 2-3 liters of water every day to stay hydrated. You can also choose other alternatives such as smoothies, herbal tea, and fruit juices.
Besides preventing kidney stones in summertime, it also helps to stay hydrated, improves cognitive function, regulates body temperature, and reduces fatigue.
Many of us still live a life of lie by believing that thirst is a solid indicator of the hydration level of our body. The reality is that doctors recommend that we drink water whenever we can.
- Have a healthy diet
Another important step to prevent kidney stones is to modify your diet. Certain food and drinks can contribute to kidney formation while others can help reduce its development.
Even making minor changes can go a long way to keep your kidneys healthy. Foods such as spinach and chocolates have high oxalate concentrations and which can easily lead to the formation of kidney stones.
Nephrologists also recommend limiting salt intake because it can further contribute to kidney stones. Adults must consume less than 2,300mg/day (approximately one teaspoon) of salt.
You must also try to reduce the consumption of processed and packaged food which repeatedly contains high amounts of sodium.
It is a widely accepted belief that patients with kidney stones in summertime must not consume more calcium-rich food because it leads to kidney stone formation.
However, it is a myth, and consuming calcium-rich food is more beneficial than most people understand. Moreover, you must also limit the intake of animal protein and avoid food that is high in potassium and citrate.
- Avoid excess exposure to heat
The more you spend time in hot environments, the more your body will release minerals in your urine and concentrate it further. Needless to mention, it will ultimately lead to the formation of kidney stones in summertime.
Needless to say, taking steps to avoid exposure is essential. This includes staying indoors during peak hours, wearing loose clothes, using fans or air conditioners, and avoiding excessive physical activity.
Experts also recommend being mindful of the temperature of food and drinks during the summer season. Consuming hot or warm food contributes to dehydration while cold food prevents it.
- Develop healthy habits
Maintaining healthy habits is not only important in the summertime but throughout the year.
However, you must avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day and drink plenty of water after it.
Another important habit is getting an adequate amount of sleep because an imbalance in your sleep schedule can increase your stress level and contribute to kidney stone formation. Adults are always recommended to sleep for 7-8 hours every day.
People must avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking because it is a well-known culprit of kidney stones and other health issues. Doing this will help you prevent kidney stones in summertime.
- Avoid using excess medications or supplements
Medicines and even some supplements are essential for managing certain health conditions but excessive use can increase the risk of developing kidney stones in summertime.
For instance, medications such as diuretics and calcium-based antacids can increase the concentration of minerals in the urine, contributing to renal calculi.
Supplements with high amounts of vitamin C, calcium, and oxalate can also lead to hard deposit formation.
You must also be mindful when consuming over-the-counter medication because they tend to have ingredients that contribute to hard deposit formation.
However, if you must take these medications or supplements, it is better to consult Dr. Rajesh Goel, the best nephrologist in Delhi.
Conclusion
Kidney stones in summertime are painful and uncomfortable conditions that can affect people at any age and at any time. However, there are natural ways to prevent kidney stones in summer.
Using these natural ways will not only help you avoid unnecessary side effects caused by medications but it will also help you improve the health of your kidneys. In the long run, this will help your body fight all kidney diseases.
Frequently asked questions
How can 100% prevent kidney stones?
Drinking more water and developing healthy dietary and lifestyle changes can 100% prevent kidney stones.
What fruit is considered good for kidney stones?
Citrate fruits such as lemons and oranges are considered good for kidney stones. They bind with the calcium in the body and prevent it from clumping together.
Is milk good for kidney stones?
Yes, milk and other dairy products are good for kidney stones. The calcium present in milk binds with the oxalate in the intestine and prevents kidney stone formation.