How To Have Healthy Kidneys

The book “Caring For The Filters: Why Do Some Kidneys Fail”, authored by Dr. Pearle T. Pagunsan with his wife Dr. Hazel Chua-Pagunsan, give us the following tips for the prevention of kidney stones.

* Minimize sugar intake

Studies in US, Europe and Japan showed that increased sugar intake increased urinary calcium excretion both to normal, healthy individuals and to patients with calcium stones in the kidneys. This suggest that overconsumption of refined carbohydrates such as sugar, sweetened softdrinks, soda, cakes, may be a risk factor for stone formation.

* Eat more vegetables and whole grains

High consumption of meat protein and salt, and insufficient intake of vegetable fibers, calcium, and fluid may lead to increased urinary stone formation.

* Eat less meat and animal products

Studies have shown that high protein intake is partly to blame for the epidemic of kidney stones in the developed world. Animal protein also results in a more acidic urine environment, which promotes stone formation. Tofu, beans, and other plant proteins are better substitutes.

* Drink more water

More liquids should be included in the diet, especially water. Most kidney stone patients simply do not drink enough water.

* Drink more lemon juice

Studies have shown that low urine citrate levels increase the risk of calcium stone formation. Lemon juice is a good dietary form of citrate in the form of citric acid.

* Don’t take calcium pills

Research shows that calcium tablets should not be taken. Kidney stone sufferers, who took calcium supplements have more stones, while those who got calcium from their diet had no problems.