Kidney stones are a painful and frustrating condition affecting over half a million people yearly, based on the National Kidney Foundation’s data. Many individuals end up in the emergency room due to the intense pain caused by kidney stones.
There are various effective medical treatments for dissolving kidney stones and reducing pain, but several natural home remedies can also help. However, always consult your doctor before trying these.
Doctors often use potassium citrate to treat chronic kidney stones. You can get similar benefits from eating fruits high in natural citrate, like limeade, lemonade, and other citrus fruits. The natural citrate helps your body excrete calcium oxalate and prevents calcium from binding with other substances that lead to kidney stones. This method is recommended by the United Kidney Stone Research Council.
Watermelon is another excellent remedy because it’s rich in potassium, which combats kidney stones made of magnesium and calcium phosphate. Potassium lowers acid levels in urine, making it harder for stones to form. Plus, watermelon is almost entirely water, which boosts hydration and reduces the risk of kidney stones since dehydration is a major cause.
Kidney beans and other legumes with high levels of insoluble fiber are also great for preventing kidney stones. Insoluble fiber binds calcium in the stool, keeping it from passing into the urinary system. Lower levels of calcium in urine make it less likely for stones to form. Foods like eggplants, corn, peas, greens, garlic, and onion are also good sources of insoluble fiber.
Apple cider vinegar’s astringent properties can also prevent kidney stones. It helps dissolve existing stones and has an alkalinizing effect on urine and blood, making it a useful home remedy for those at risk.
Staying well-hydrated is crucial since a lack of water concentrates minerals in the urine, leading to the formation of kidney stones. According to the Urology Care Foundation, drinking about three quarts, or ten 10-ounce glasses, of water a day helps flush out the kidneys and break up stones.
If you’ve suffered from kidney stones, you know how painful and frustrating they can be. Incorporating these natural remedies into your routine might help prevent future stones.