What Are Some Foods That Help Get Rid of Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are deposits of minerals that develop when urine is not able to dissolve the solid elements in the kidneys. While they often bring on excruciating pain, kidney stones typically do not cause permanent damage. Diet plays a major role in the formation of kidney stones, and treatment typically is focused on lifestyle changes rather than medication.

Identification

Approximately four in five cases of kidney stones involve a type of stone known as calcium oxalate stones. These stones occur when calcium binds with oxalates in the urine to form crystals. Stones develop over a period of weeks and may eventually reach a diameter of a quarter-inch or larger. Less common types of kidney stones are uric acid, calcium phosphate, struvit and cystine stones. All types are the result of accumulation of minerals in the urine.

Oxalates

Oxalates are a type of mineral salt that occur naturally in a variety of foods. These salts normally are excreted by the body through the urine, however, when there is an excess of oxalate in the urine, they may bind together with other minerals to form kidney stones. Individuals with a history of kidney stones may wish to reduce consumption of foods high in oxalates, which includes nuts; chocolate; beans; beets; leafy, green vegetables; and black tea.

Water

Low urine volume is a major risk factor for the development of kidney stones. When volume is low, the urine becomes highly concentrated, affecting its ability to dissolve material in the kidneys. As a result, ensuring adequate water intake is the first step toward preventing and treating kidney stones. A study published in the July 1, 1980, Annals of Internal Medicine found a reduced susceptibility for kidney stones in subjects who produced more than 8 cups of urine per day. In order to achieve this amount of urinary output, it is recommended that those suffering from kidney stones drink a minimum of 10 to 12 cups of water per day. Soft drinks are not recommended, as sugar is believed to promote the development of stones.

Orange Juice

In addition to water, evidence shows that a glass of orange juice may also benefit those who have kidney stones. A 2006 study conducted at the University of Texas found that the citrate in orange juice acts to slow the development of kidney stones by stabilizing pH levels in the urine. While all citrus fruits contain citrate, researchers in the study did not find similar beneficial effects with lemonade. For those who do not tolerate orange juice, potassium citrate supplements may work in much the same way, by raising urine pH levels slightly.

Magnesium

According to a 2004 Brigham and Women's Hospital study, dietary magnesium appears to decrease the risk of kidney stones in men. Magnesium levels can be increased through diet, however, it is important to note that many foods high in magnesium also are high in oxalates. Foods high in magnesium and low in oxalates include lima beans, green peas, avocados, bananas, and pumpkin and sunflower seeds.