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Many people turn to natural remedies to manage kidney stones. And, yeah, the appeal of treating them at home is understandable. So, let’s jump into some popular and effective options for dealing with kidney stones.
Ways to Treat Kidney Stones
Lots of people look for natural ways to handle kidney stones and some of the more common and effective examples include the following:
Water
Generally, health experts suggest drinking eight cups of water daily, or about two liters. This helps prevent kidney stones from forming. But, if you’re already dealing with stones, we’re often told to up our water intake to maybe 12 cups a day, or more, depending. A good way to check is to look at the color of your urine; the darker it is, the more dehydrated you are, and, well, you probably need to drink more. Staying hydrated is super important.
Lemons
Adding natural lemon juice to your water is a great idea, if you ask me. Lemons contain citrate, which can prevent calcium stones from forming and help break them down, making them easier to pass. Besides helping with the stones, lemon is thought to curb the growth of bacteria in your body. I love a good excuse to drink something lemony!
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has acetic acid, which helps dissolve stones and lower uric acid levels. This can help dissolve stones and prevent new ones from forming. Now, how much should you drink? That’s something to consider:
- You could make a tea using organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and drink several cups a day.
- Or, drink it straight or add it to other juices.
That said, it’s good to be careful when drinking apple cider vinegar more than six consecutive times, because it can lead to:
- Lower blood sugar.
- Lower blood pressure.
- Potassium deficiency.
Celery
Celery contains compounds that help dissolve kidney stones. It also helps regulate blood and urine pressure, reducing the chances of new stone development. Celery aids in reducing pain in the kidneys; and to reap the benefits mix two tablespoons of the extract with 6-8 cups of water to drink all through out the day.
In addition to these home remedies, adopting certain dietary changes can significantly impact kidney stone formation. Reducing sodium intake is crucial, as high sodium levels can increase calcium in the urine, potentially leading to stone formation. Simultaneously, increasing your intake of magnesium can help prevent calcium oxalate crystals from binding together, reducing the risk of stone development. Considering these lifestyle adjustments can complement the effects of home remedies, creating a comprehensive approach to kidney stone prevention and management.
Pomegranate
Okay, I have to admit, I love pomegranates, and apparently they’re not just tasty. Pomegranate juice can improve overall kidney function. It helps with flushing out stones and other toxins, helping to prevent stone formation. There’s not a specific amount of juice you need to drink, but…well, be careful if:
- You’re taking medications broken down in the liver, like amitriptyline or diclofenac.
- You’re on blood pressure medication like chlorothiazide.
- You’re taking cholesterol medication.
Kidney Beans
Funny enough, kidney beans can actually help with kidney issues. By being a source of urine, it makes it easy for the kidney to eliminate substances that may lead to stone formation. To achieve this, prepare the beans until they are tender and strain the liquid. Drinking several cups per day helps dissolve the stones. But, it’s important to avoid if:
- You’re taking diuretics.
- You’re on lithium.
- You have edema.
- You have blood pressure issues.
Key takeaways
- Staying hydrated with water and lemon juice can prevent kidney stones.
- Consuming apple cider vinegar and pomegranate can also dissolve kidney stones.
- Adjusting your diet by reducing sodium and adding magnesium may also reduce the chance of kidney stones.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Can drinking cranberry juice help prevent kidney stones?
While cranberry juice is often recommended for urinary tract infections, it’s not the best choice for preventing kidney stones. Cranberries contain oxalates, which can contribute to stone formation in some people. Stick to water, lemon juice, or other remedies mentioned above.
Is it true that only calcium causes kidney stones?
Nope! Calcium is a common component of kidney stones, but other factors like uric acid, struvite, and cystine can also cause them. Different types of stones require different approaches to prevention and treatment, so it’s essential to know what kind you’re dealing with.
Are kidney stones always painful?
Not necessarily. Small stones might pass without causing any symptoms. However, larger stones can cause severe pain as they move through the urinary tract. If you suspect you have kidney stones, it’s always best to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
After struggling with kidney stones for years, I was skeptical about trying home remedies. But, I was desperate for some relief. I started drinking lemon water every day, and, surprisingly, I haven’t had a stone in over a year! It’s been a simple, effective change.
I’ve been there; the pain is unbearable. I tried apple cider vinegar and pomegranate juice. It might’ve been coincidence, but after changing my diet, I started feeling much better. I’m still cautious, but things have improved.
My doctor suggested I drink more water and add lemon to it. I never thought something so simple could make such a difference. It’s been a relief to find a natural way to manage my kidney stones, and I’m thankful for the advice.
One thing I’ve learned through researching all this is that natural remedies can be really helpful, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. What works for one person might not work for another, and it’s always best to talk to a doctor before making any big changes to your routine. And hey, if we can find ways to ease that discomfort and prevent those pesky stones from forming, it’s a win in my book.
