Know kidney stones and myths related to kidney stones

 kidney stones (Nephrolithiassis)

There are many types of kidney stones like : calcium stones, oxalate stones, uric acid stones, cystine stones, melamine and indinavir stones and struvite stones .

In some case urine PH is also responsible for particular stone formation.

pH	STATE OF URATE	LIKELY STONES DEVELOPMENT
<5.5	Undissociated  urate	Uric acid stones
5.5-7.5	Dissociated urate	Calcium oxalate stones
>7.5	Dissociated urate	Calcium phosphate stones

Lets understand cause and composition of stones

Causes and composition of renal stones
Pathogenetic causes	Composition of stones
Hypercalciuria , hyperoxaluria, hyperuricosuria  or hypocitraturia	Calcium oxalate
Primary hyperparathyroidism	Calcium oxalate
cystinuria	cystine
infection	struvite
Acid urine pH	Uric acid
Hyperuricosuria	Uric acid
Renal tubular acidosis	Calcium phosphate
Alkaline urine pH	Calcium phosphate

Myths: any kind of Seeds or seeds containing vegetable like tomato , brinjal and guava can cause kidney stones

Fact: The seeds in fruits and vegetables cannot cause kidney stones. A good intake of fruits and vegetable along with a healthy balanced diet can be protective against various disease conditions including kidney stones. all is depends on composition of stones this composition is analyzed by a pathologist . if stones composition is calcium or oxalate , avoid milk and milk product as well as other calcium rich food due to its calcium content and green leafy vegetable due to oxalate content.

 

Myths: Eating non-vegetarian food damages your kidneys.

Fact: Moderation is the key of healthy eating .Non-vegetarian foods are rich in sources of protein along with micronutrients like B1, B2, B12, iron and zinc. If eaten in moderation as suggested by a Dietitian, it does not cause any harm to your kidneys. 

 

Myths: Patients with kidney disease should drink large amount of water.

Fact: only in case of reduced urine output  maintaining water balance is essential . Those with kidney stones or normal kidney function can have water minimum 3 litres per day

 

Myths: Eliminate green vegetables  completely to control stone formation.

Fact:only green leafy vegetable are avoided if the stones composition if found rich in oxalate . green vegetables is the vital food group in our diet. cutting vegetable can cause a lots of deficiencies . oxalates also found in dairy products so eat the food under the  guidance of a dietitian .

  

Myths: All Fruits should be avoided during kidney disease.

Fact: Fruits are rich sources of Vitamin C, beta carotene, dietary fibre, antioxidants and phytochemicals. Some fruits are also rich source of potassium which may be restricted in kidney disease. Hence, people with kidney disease are often prescribed low potassium fruits. Fruit juices are a concentrated source of potassium devoid of the fibre and hence, should be strictly restricted in people with kidney disease. Consult a dietitian to know which fruits are suitable to your condition.

 

Myths: Consuming Calcium rich foods causes Kidney stones

Fact:  only calcium rich food  should be restricted  if the stones composition is found rich in calcium  .