One of the main causes of kidney stones is a lack of citrate - a natural substance found in urine that helps prevent calcium crystallization. Many scientific studies have shown that eating oranges or drinking orange juice can increase uric citrate levels, thereby effectively reducing the risk of kidney stone formation.
Whole orange juice is highly saturated, similar to lemon juice and has the ability to increase urine pH, helping to create an environment that is less favorable for the synthesis of calcium oxalate - the most common type of stone. According to research, people who drink 1-2 glasses of orange juice per day have a significant increase in urinary citrate intake, while reducing the risk of kidney stone recurrence compared to the group that does not drink orange juice.
Oranges are also rich in vitamin C and flavonoids - antioxidants that help protect the kidneys from damage caused by inflammation and free radicals. Experts recommend that people at risk of kidney stones should increase their intake of citrus fruits, in which oranges are one of the most accessible and safe choices.
However, experts also note that you should eat fresh oranges or drink sugar-free pure orange juice. Consuming canned orange juice with added sugar can increase the risk of metabolic disorders and diabetes - other risk factors for kidney stones.
Eating oranges or drinking orange juice properly can be a natural way to effectively prevent and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
