What Foods Can Cause Kidney Stones?
A diet rich in purines (animal fat) increases uric acid in the blood causing kidney stones. Also, caffeinated beverages, Rhubarb, excessive dairy products and artificial sweeteners increase calcium and oxalate content, leading to stone formation. Avoid excessive salt, calcium supplements, and foods like beetroot, asparagus, chocolate, berries, almonds and peanuts.
Healthy kidneys are essential for proper detoxification. However, certain foods can cause kidney stones and keep these organs from functioning optimally.
Foods That Cause Kidney Stones
Listed below are foods that encourage kidney stone development:
A Diet Rich In Purines
Substances found in animal protein such as meats, fish and shellfish may increase uric acid in urine. This can lead to the formation of Uric acid stones. Those who consume a high-protein diet put particular stress on their kidneys because protein waste is difficult to eliminate from the body efficiently.
Caffeinated Beverages
Oxalate is found in caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, cola, and especially, tea. Too much caffeine can lead to the development of kidney stones due to higher calcium levels in the urine. Consuming these beverages in very large amounts, may create the conditions for kidney stones to form.
Excessive Dairy Products
The problem with dairy products is that it is similar to that of other animal proteins. Consuming dairy products increases the excretion of calcium in the urine, which has been associated with a higher risk of developing kidney stones.
Artificial Sweeteners
Non-caloric sweeteners can impair kidney function, if consumed long-term. So, it’s best to opt for natural sweeteners like honey, stevia or agave instead.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb may cause kidney stones in some people. It contains large amounts of oxalate and increases the urine oxalate levels, which can lead to the formation of oxalate kidney stones.5
Excess Salt Intake
A high sodium intake increases the risk of stone formation by increasing calcium levels and decreasing cit-rate (a stone inhibitor) levels in urine. These altered levels make it easier for stones to develop.
Too Much Calcium
Calcium supplements, have been linked to increased risk of kidney stones. It is advisable for people who tend to develop kidney stones to avoid eating more calcium than the body needs each day.
Other Stone-Forming Foods
Other foods include beetroot, asparagus, chocolate, berries, leeks, parsley, celery, almonds, peanuts and cashew nuts, soy products, grains, such as oatmeal, wheat germ and wholewheat.
