SHAHEDNEWS: The formation of kidney stones largely depends on our lifestyle and the foods we consume. But did you know that the simplest foods can lead to kidney stones?
According to SHAHEDNEWS, Kidney stones form due to the concentration of certain substances like calcium, uric acid, and oxalate in the urine. Kidney stones usually don't have a single, clear cause and come in various types, but most kidney stones are made of calcium oxalate, a natural substance found in some foods and produced by the liver. For this reason, consuming certain foods can lead to the formation of kidney stones. In this section, we’ve listed the foods that can produce kidney stones.
Spinach contains both soluble and insoluble oxalates. According to studies, 100 grams of frozen spinach contains about 90 milligrams of calcium. However, consuming calcium-rich foods with spinach significantly reduces the absorption of soluble oxalates.
Beets and beetroot powder contain high levels of oxalates and may increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Therefore, individuals who are prone to kidney stones or gallstones should minimize their beet consumption. Limit cooked beets to ½ cup and avoid drinking beet juice.
Rhubarb is another vegetable that contains high levels of harmful substances for the kidneys. Boiling or steaming rhubarb in water or cooking it in milk can reduce the soluble oxalate content in rhubarb.
One of the leafy green vegetables rich in oxalates is kale, and excessive consumption of it can lead to kidney stones. Therefore, individuals prone to kidney stones should avoid consuming it in large amounts.
Sweet potatoes contain some oxalates, so individuals with kidney problems should avoid eating them or limit their consumption.
Peanuts are commonly consumed as a nutritious snack. 100 grams of roasted peanuts contain about 187.0 milligrams of oxalate, and studies show that peanuts can cause oxalate nephropathy. This condition occurs when oxalate crystal deposits form in the kidneys, leading to inflammation and damage to the kidney epithelial cells.
Raspberries are rich in oxalates and vitamin C, and they can lead to the formation of kidney stones or worsen existing ones.
Milk, cheese, and other dairy products can lead to the formation of calcium phosphate kidney stones, which occur when calcium in the urine combines with phosphate minerals.
Eggs are an animal protein source that can play a role in the formation of calcium phosphate kidney stones. Therefore, it is recommended to limit egg consumption.
Seafood is another rich protein source that can contribute to the formation of calcium phosphate kidney stones. Therefore, if you have kidney problems, it is advisable to limit your seafood consumption.
Excessive consumption of red meat, due to its high purine content, increases uric acid levels and can worsen kidney stones.
Artificial sweeteners are used to sweeten desserts, teas, diet drinks, and many low-calorie foods. Although you might think they are better than sugar, they have serious side effects on health, such as reducing kidney function and potentially leading to the formation of kidney stones.
Excessive consumption of coffee, tea, and soda can lead to a range of health issues, including kidney stones and increased calcium in urine.