Overview
Are you having floating pain at the back of your abdomen or a burning sensation while urinating? You are probably suffering from kidney stones.
Kidney stones or renal calculi is a very common disease and can be very painful.
The pain usually occurs when the stones block the renal system like the ureters (tubes that drain urine from the kidneys to the bladder).
Blockage causes the urine to backflow and the affected kidney(s) swell up and become inflamed. This causes excruciating pain and needs immediate medical intervention.
Kidney stones can be as small as grains of sand and can easily pass out of the kidneys. However, bigger stones can obstruct the renal ducts and cause complications. Passing kidney stones can be painful.
So, can I pass kidney stones at home?
Yes, staying hydrated and drinking lots of water are among the best ways to flush out kidney stones naturally. There are other home remedies that can help to manage and prevent kidney stones.
These home remedies can be safely followed along with medical treatments. However, prior consultation with the doctor is recommended.
Home remedies for kidney stones
Lifestyle changes, diet modifications, and a few home remedies can prevent kidney stones.
Drink water
Drinking water throughout the day helps in the easy passing of the stones. Doctors recommend at least 80-100 ounces of water per day. Water increases the fluid content in the urine and prevents the formation of kidney stones.
Citric acid
Lemon juice contains citrate which prevents accumulation of calcium deposits in the urine.
The best way is to prepare fresh lemon juices at home. Squeeze the lemon and add the pure lemon extract to the water. Avoid using sugar in the juice. Alternatively, you can add some honey to the juice.
While buying lemon juices from the shop, read the labels. If they contain high levels of artificial sweeteners and fructose, they can be harmful to kidney stones.
Oranges are also high in citric acid and are a good option for a kidney stone diet.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains citric acid and helps in breaking the calcium deposits into smaller parts.
Vinegar also reduces kidney stone formation.
It is acidic and should be diluted with water before consumption. Add one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Add some honey to the juice to balance the acidity.
Avoid consuming larger portions of vinegar in a day as it can be harmful to your health.
Vinegar can cause tooth decay, acid reflux, or sore throat.
Juices
Celery extract can help in breaking down kidney stones. Take a few celery stalks and blend them in a juicer with water. Drink the juice.
One or two servings of pomegranate juice in a day can keep your kidneys healthy. They contain antioxidants and are good for your overall health.
Basil leaves have acetic acid and can break down the stones. They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components.
You can have fresh basil juice with water or add some leaves to the tea. Basil tea can be consumed several times during the day.
Basil leaves can be taken with green tea. Green tea reduces calcium deposits and decreases the excretion of oxalates in the urine.
Coconut water
Coconut water is one of the best drinks you can have for kidney stones. They hydrate the body and have diuretic components that increase urine production.
Wheatgrass juice
Wheatgrass juice is a very effective home remedy for treating kidney stones.
Wheatgrass juice along with lemon juice can be taken on an empty stomach. The juice can be taken three times a day and increases urine output.
Kidney beans
Kidney beans are rich in fiber and are a healthy food option. It can be cooked and included in the diet. Take small portions of kidney beans. They cleanse the body and help to flush out the stones.
Add calcium to the diet
Calcium can actually help in preventing kidney stone formation if taken in the right quantity.
Contrary to popular belief, a low-calcium diet can actually increase the risks of kidney stones.
Calcium binds to the oxalate and prevents it from getting absorbed in the stomach. It helps the calcium-oxalate stones to pass through urine.
Around 1000-1200 milligrams of calcium are recommended every day.
Dairy products are rich in calcium and should be taken as per advice. Avoid calcium supplements as they can abruptly raise the calcium levels in the body.
Parsley
Parsley is a diuretic that increases urine production and flushes the toxins out of the body. Add some parsley leaves to the tea and leave it for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it hot.
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