Kidney stones, or renal lithiasis, are formed from mineral and acid salt deposits inside the kidneys. Usually, these mineral and acid salts are diluted and excreted in the urine. Sometimes the urine is too concentrated and the substances solidify within the kidneys. When kidney stones are eventually passed through the body, they cause extreme pain in the back and abdomen.
Instructions
1. Drink more water. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals with a history of kidney stones should drink at least 14 cups of water every day.
2. Consume a lemon every day. The lemon may be used in homemade lemonade. Lemons help prevent future kidney stones by increasing the amount of citrate in the urine.
3. Avoid foods with oxalates. These foods include beets, rhubarb, okra, collards, refried beans, sweet potatoes, spinach, almonds, sesame seeds and soy products.
4. Consume a diet low in animal protein and salt. According to the Mayo Clinic, studies have shown that such a diet can prevent the development of kidney stones.
5. Consume more calcium. Calcium attaches to oxalates so that they cannot form kidney stones. However, in some cases, calcium intake may need to be reduced if too much calcium is absorbed from the intestines.
6. Take prescribed medications. Doctors may prescribe thiazide diuretics to increase urine output. Also, Zyloprim or Aloprim may help to reduce the amount of uric acid in the urine. They may also dissolve some kidney stones formed by uric acid. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent struvite stones from forming.
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