According to the American Urological Association, up to 12 percent of Americans will develop a kidney stone within their lifetime. Kidney stones occur when the levels of minerals and salts normally present in urine like calcium and phosphate are high. These tiny particles stick together, making stones that then pass from the kidneys into the urinary tract.
With over 200,000 cases of people struggling with kidney stones, recent research suggests that the percentage of individuals affected will only increase. For at least half of the individuals afflicted, having kidney stones isn’t just a one-time occurrence because in some cases, they do come back.
Kidney stones are quite painful and symptoms include sharp pain in your lower abdomen, back, side or groin, pain when you urinate, fever and chills and nausea and vomiting. Since the experience can be painful, it’s important to know that there are simple steps you can take to prevent another attack.
Before knowing how to avoid this painful condition, understanding what causes kidney stones will help you find out the lifestyle changes you need to prevent and get rid of them.
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are hard deposits of acid salts and minerals that fuse together in concentrated urine. They can be painful when passing through the urinary tract, but they usually don’t cause permanent damage.
Dehydration is classified as one of the major contributing factors in the formation of kidney stones. Fluid moves more slowly through the kidney when the body is dehydrated, which increases the chances of mineral and salt compounds to stick together.
Smaller stones tend to form but usually pass on their own without causing any symptoms. However, most medium or large stones are extremely painful to pass and require medical attention.
Drinking plenty of fluids is an essential part of getting rid of kidney stones and preventing new stones from coming back. Not only does drinking fluids flush out toxins, but it also helps move stones and grit through your urinary tract with ease.
In addition to drinking a lot of fluids, try the following natural remedies to help pass those dreadful kidney stones.
Natural Remedies for Kidney Stones
Drink water: Water is one of the easiest methods for passing kidney stones. Drinking 12 glasses per day can help ease the passage and slow the growth of calcium deposits in the kidneys.
Basil: Basil makes it harder for kidney stones to form because it contains compounds and acetic acid, which is known to help stabilize uric acid levels and help dissolve stones.
Wheatgrass juice: Wheatgrass contains compounds and antioxidants that increase urine production and allow kidney stones to pass more easily while reducing the risk of their formation.
Lemon juice: Lemons contain an organic compound known as citrate that helps break down calcium deposits and slow their growth.
Kidney bean broth: Kidney beans are filled with magnesium, which has been found to help reduce kidney stones along with their symptoms.
Extra virgin olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is a thick, rich oil that may help ease the passage of kidney stones by lubricating the urinary tract.
Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar again contains citric acid that may help dissolve calcium deposits.
Pomegranate juice: The astringent and antioxidant properties of pomegranates are thought to reduce the chances of developing kidney stones and ease their passage.
It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor first before considering to take any natural remedies, especially if you are taking any medications or are currently dealing with pre-existing conditions.
