You may not know this, but kidney stones are actually quite common. They develop when there’s an accumulation of substances such as calcium, oxalate, and phosphate in the urine. If untreated, kidney stones can give rise to excruciating pain and other health problems like urinary tract infections.
One way to help lower your risk of developing kidney stones is by transitioning into a plant-based diet – this adjustment will cut down on the number of these substances present in urine.
What are the best plant-based foods to eat if you have kidney stones? Can a vegan diet cure kidney stones? What are the benefits of following a vegan diet for those with kidney stones? What is the relation between a Vegan diet and kidney stones?
Let’s take a look at the diet
- Calcium-Rich Foods: Calcium is one of the substances that can contribute to kidney stones. However, calcium is also an essential nutrient for bone health. Therefore, it is important to get calcium from food sources rather than supplements. Good sources of calcium include leafy green vegetables, such as kale and collard greens, as well as tofu and other soy products.
- Oxalate-Rich Foods: Oxalate is another substance that can contribute to kidney stones. Foods high in oxalate include spinach, rhubarb, beets, nuts, and chocolate. While it is important to limit these foods, they can still be eaten in small amounts if they are cooked properly.
- Phosphate-Rich Foods: Phosphate is another substance that can contribute to kidney stones. Foods high in phosphate include dairy products and processed foods.
- Fibrous Foods: Fibrous foods can help bind together substances in the urine that can form kidney stones. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Water: Water is essential for preventing kidney stones because it helps dilute the substances that can form them. It is recommended to drink six to eight glasses of water per day.
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are rich in citric acid, which has been shown to inhibit the formation of kidney stones. Citrus fruits include lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits.
Conclusion:
A vegan diet may help prevent kidney stones by reducing the amount of calcium, oxalate, and phosphate in the urine. The best plant-based foods to eat if you have kidney stones are leafy green vegetables, tofu, other soy products, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Water is also essential for preventing kidney stones. Citrus fruits are rich in citric acid and may help inhibit the formation of kidney stones. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any major changes to your diet.