Kidney Stones: Here Are The 10 prominent risk factors One Should Know

Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. Anyone can develop kidney stones, but certain factors can increase an individual's risk. Understanding these risk factors is crucial for prevention and management. 

“Foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and almonds, chocolates, and aerated drinks, can increase the risk by supplying substrates for crystal aggregation," adding, "Oxalate combines with calcium in the urine, generating calcium oxalate stones, the most frequent type." Oxalate is an organic acid found in plants,” said Dr Y P Singh Rana, Director Urology-Uro-Oncology, Kidney Transplant, BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi. Here are the ten prominent risk factors for kidney stones that one should be aware of:

Dehydration

Not drinking enough water each day can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Dehydration leads to concentrated urine, which is more likely to crystallise into stones.

Also read: Kidney Stones And Gallstones: Aren’t they Similar? Let’s Find Out

Diet

A diet high in protein, sodium (salt), and sugar, particularly from processed and fast foods, can increase the risk of some types of kidney stones.

Obesity

High body mass index (BMI), large waist size, and weight gain have been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones.

Digestive Diseases and Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, or chronic diarrhoea can cause changes in the digestive process that affect your absorption of calcium and water, increasing the levels of stone-forming substances in the urine.

Family or Personal History

If someone in your family has had kidney stones, you're more likely to develop them. Likewise, if you've had one kidney stone, you're at increased risk of developing another.

Certain Diets

A diet that is high in protein, sodium, and sugar may increase the risk of some types of kidney stones. This is especially true with a high sodium intake, which can increase the amount of calcium your kidneys must filter and significantly increase your risk.

Some Medical Conditions

Diseases and conditions such as renal tubular acidosis, cystinuria, hyperparathyroidism, and certain urinary tract infections can increase the risk of kidney stones.

Supplements and Medications

Consuming excessive amounts of vitamin C, dietary supplements, and certain medications can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.

Dehydration in Hot Climates

People living in hot and dry climates or working in environments where they might not drink enough water are at higher risk due to higher rates of dehydration.

Certain Beverages

Drinking soda and other beverages with high levels of phosphates can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.

Prevention Tips

• Stay Hydrated:  Drink enough water, especially if you live in a hot climate or exercise frequently.
• Limit Salt and Animal Protein: Reduce the amount of salt in your diet and choose non-animal protein sources more often.
• Eat Calcium-Rich Foods: While too much supplemental calcium may increase the risk of stones, calcium-rich foods can actually lower the risk.
• Limit High-Oxalate Foods: If you're prone to forming calcium oxalate stones, you might be asked to avoid foods rich in oxalates, such as spinach, rhubarb, and almonds.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet and Weight: Adopt a balanced diet low in salt and animal protein. Aim for a healthy weight to reduce the risk of stones.
• Monitor Sugar Intake: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as high sugar levels can increase stone formation.

Also read: Avoid THESE Food Types To Reduce The Risk Of Kidney Stones

Managing these risk factors through lifestyle and dietary changes can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing kidney stones. If you're at risk, discuss preventive strategies with your healthcare provider to tailor a plan that's right for you.