Indian Way Of Handling Kidney Stone

Kidney stones are a prevalent condition in India causing intense pain and discomfort. About 11% of men & 6% of women experience kidney stones. Understanding their causes, preventive measures, and available treatments is crucial for managing this condition effectively. India is home to ayurveda & has many home remedies available.

Few of them are.

• Coconut Water: Regular consumption of coconut water may help keep the kidneys healthy and promote urinary health due to its natural diuretic properties.
• Pomegranate Juice : Drink fresh pomegranate juice regularly. Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants and have been traditionally believed to help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
• Ajwain (Carom Seeds) Water : Boil ajwain seeds in water, strain the solution, and drink it. Ajwain has properties that could aid in reducing kidney stone risk.
• Cumin (Jeera) Water : Boil cumin seeds in water, strain, and drink the cooled solution. Cumin water is believed to have detoxifying properties that might aid in kidney health.
• Basil (Sabja) Seeds : Soak basil seeds in water overnight and consume them in the morning. They are considered cooling and support overall kidney health.
• Barley Water : Boil barley in water, strain, and drink the liquid. Barley water has properties that can help in reducing the risk of kidney stone formation.
• Amla (Indian Gooseberry) : Consume amla juice or include fresh amla in your diet. Amla is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, potentially aiding in kidney health.

Know your macros

• Moderate Oxalate Intake: Reduce high-oxalate foods like spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate, as they contribute to stone formation.
• Calcium-Rich Diet: Ensure a balanced intake of calcium-rich foods like dairy products or fortified alternatives, as adequate calcium intake might prevent certain types of stones.
• Limit Sodium Intake: Excessive salt can increase calcium levels in urine, contributing to stone formation. Avoid processed foods and reduce added salt in cooking.

Making Lifestyle Changes:

• Be Cautious in Extreme Conditions: In hot climates or during vigorous exercise, increase water intake to prevent dehydration and subsequent stone formation.
• Balanced Diet and Physical Activity: Adopt a balanced diet and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity increases the risk of stone formation.

• Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Excessive alcohol and caffeine intake can lead to dehydration. Moderation is key.
• Moderate Animal Proteins: Limit red meat, fish, and poultry consumption as they increase uric acid and calcium oxalate levels.
• Reduce Sugar: Excessive sugar intake can lead to calcium excretion in urine, promoting stone formation. Limit added sugars in beverages and processed foods.
• Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare providers. Conditions like high blood pressure or digestive disorders can contribute to stone formation if left untreated.
• Medication Adherence: If on medications that could predispose to stone formation, adhere to prescribed dosages and consult a healthcare professional regarding potential side effects.

Remember, these lifestyle adjustments should be individualized and complement medical advice. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized guidance is crucial, especially for those with a history of kidney stones or underlying health conditions.

Always seek professional guidance & discuss personalized dietary plans and lifestyle modifications with healthcare professionals, especially if prone to recurrent kidney stones or if managing underlying health conditions.

About the author,

Kishor Agrawal has worked for 20 years in the healthcare industry. He started Sona Healthcare which is a one-stop solution for wellness offering authentic and affordable Ayurvedic treatments.