The foods and beverages we consume can greatly influence the risk of developing kidney stones. Certain dietary choices can contribute to the accumulation of substances that form stones. For instance:
High Oxalate Foods: Foods rich in oxalate, such as spinach, beets, nuts, and tea, can increase the risk of calcium oxalate stones.
High Protein Diets: Consuming excessive amounts of protein, especially animal protein, can lead to the formation of uric acid stones.
Sodium (Salt): Diets high in sodium can increase the amount of calcium in the urine, potentially leading to calcium-based stones.
Low Calcium Diets: Paradoxically, not consuming enough calcium-rich foods may increase the risk of calcium oxalate stones.