The main cause of kidney stones recurring is due to the excessive crystallization of certain minerals in the urine such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid or cystine. When the patient does not change their lifestyle and nutrition after treatment, the environment is favorable for further stone formation.
According to research published in Nature Reviews Urology (2023), maintaining a suitable diet can reduce the risk of recurrent stones by up to 50%, especially in patients who have had calcium oxalate stones - the type of stone that accounts for more than 70% of cases.
To prevent kidney stones from recurring, it is important to note:
Drink enough water
WHO recommends that adults drink 2-2.5 liters of water per day to maintain a minimum urine intake of 2 liters/day. An adequate amount of water helps dilute crystals in urine, limiting the buildup to stones.
Increase foods rich in natural calcium
The paradox is that a diet lacking in calcium increases the risk of calcium oxalate stones, because excess oxalate will easily crystallize in the kidneys.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, patients should supplement calcium from foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt instead of supplements. Too high a dose from a functional food can be counterproductive, causing increased stones.
Limit salt and animal protein
Salt (sodium) increases calcium excretion through urine, while animal protein (red meat, organs) increases uric acid and reduces urine pH - a condition that easily causes stone formation.
Research in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology shows that a diet low in salt and rich in green vegetables helps reduce stone recurrence by 30%.
Reduce foods rich in oxalate and refined sugar
Foods rich in oxalate such as spinach, amaranth, chocolate, and sweet potatoes should be eaten in moderation. When eating, combine it with calcium-rich foods to reduce oxalate absorption.
WHO warns that refined sugar and carbonated soft drinks increase the risk of kidney stones due to disruption of insulin and uric acid metabolism.
Increase vegetables rich in citrate and potassium
Citrate is a natural anti-stonesant because it prevents calcium from crystallizing. Citrus fruits, bananas, watermelon, avocado... are rich in citrate and potassium, which help balance electrolytes and prevent stones from recurring.
In addition to diet, maintaining a reasonable weight, exercising regularly and limiting alcohol also play an important role. Obesity and insulin resistance are leading risk factors for recurrent kidney stones.
