Kidney stones are a common condition, occurring when minerals accumulate and crystallize in the urinary tract. Besides diet and water intake, exercise habits also have a significant impact on the risk of stone formation.
According to Dr. Divyashree Bhat, a urologist at SPARSH Hospital (India), regular exercise can support many factors related to kidney health. When the body is active, metabolism is more efficient, helping to regulate the amount of minerals in urine and reduce the ability to form crystals.
Supports stabilizing metabolism and blood sugar
Physical activity helps improve the body's processing of sugar and fat, thereby reducing the risk of insulin resistance. This is a factor related to the formation of kidney stones. When metabolism is stable, the chemical components in the urine are also better controlled.
Improved circulation and kidney function
Exercise helps increase blood circulation, supports kidneys to filter waste more effectively. At the same time, regular exercise also helps maintain overall health of the urinary system.
Weight control
Overweight and obesity can change the composition of urine, increasing substances such as calcium or uric acid, thereby promoting the formation of stones. Exercise helps control weight, improve insulin sensitivity and contribute to reducing these risk factors.
Choose the right exercise
No need for high-intensity exercise, moderate activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, yoga or light strength training all bring benefits. Maintaining regular exercise habits is more important than the intensity of exercise.
Risks from sedentary lifestyle
Sitting for a long time and exercising less can slow down metabolism and affect bone health, thereby increasing calcium levels in the urine. This can contribute to increasing the risk of kidney stones.
Drink enough water when exercising
Exercise often comes with dehydration through sweat. If not replenished enough water, urine will become concentrated, increasing the risk of mineral crystallization. Therefore, it is necessary to drink water before, during and after exercise to maintain stable kidney function.
Reasonable training frequency
Experts recommend exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, about 5 days a week. This level of exercise is not only good for the cardiovascular system but also helps reduce the risk of many diseases, including kidney stones.
When to see a doctor
If symptoms such as back or hip pain, bloody urine, prolonged nausea or difficulty urinating appear, it is necessary to see a doctor for diagnosis and timely treatment.
Dr. Divyashree Bhat said that exercise cannot completely eliminate the risk of kidney stones, but it is an important factor in helping to reduce the risk. Combining regular exercise, drinking enough water and a reasonable diet will help protect kidney health effectively.
