There was a case in which an elderly man in his sixties was rushed in with severe low back pain. The results of the examination revealed a large stone in his kidney. The old man asked the doctor in pain: 'Doctor, I have been frugal all my life and have never eaten too much, why do I have stones?' This made me realize that many people have misconceptions about the causes of stones. They don't know that some daily diet Xi habits are the 'invisible promoters' of stones. "
Stones, a disease that may not sound unfamiliar, are actually more common in our lives. Whether it is kidney stones, gallstones, or urethral stones, they not only cause great discomfort to the patient's body, but are more likely to trigger a series of serious health problems. But did you know that many stones are closely related to our dietary Xi.
Demystifying Stone Formation: It's Not Just Diet's Fault!
Stones, a health problem that we often hear about but may not know much about. Many people mistakenly believe that stones are caused solely by improper diet, however, this view ignores the complex factors that contribute to stone formation. The purpose of this section is to provide an in-depth understanding of the principles of stone formation and the various factors that influence their formation, so as to provide a scientific basis for our future prevention and treatment.
First, let's understand the classification of stones. Stones are mainly divided into kidney stones, gallstones and other types, although they share the name "stones", their formation mechanisms and influencing factors are very different. Kidney stones are mainly caused by excessive deposition of minerals such as calcium, oxalic acid, uric acid, etc. in the urine, while gallstones are mainly caused by abnormal deposition of cholesterol or bile pigments.
Next, let's explore the causes of stone formation. In general, the formation of stones is related to several factors:
Inadequate water intake: Adequate water intake can dilute minerals in the urine and reduce the likelihood of stone formation.
Dietary factors: Excessive intake of foods high in oxalic acid, calcium, and purines can increase the risk of certain types of stones.
Genetic factors: The presence of a case of stones in a family history may increase an individual's risk of stone formation.
Lifestyle: Lack of exercise slows down metabolism in the body and increases the risk of stone formation.
Health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as abnormal glucose metabolism (diabetes) and increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries (hypertension), may also increase the risk of stones.
Once we have identified the types of stones and the causes of their formation, we can be more targeted in preventing and treating them. For example, for kidney stones, increasing water intake and controlling the intake of foods high in oxalate will be effective preventive measures. For gallstones, attention needs to be paid to the management of cholesterol levels.
Diet undoubtedly plays an important role in the formation of stones, but it is not the only factor. By understanding the diversity and mechanisms of stone formation, we can approach prevention and intervention more holistically, rather than focusing solely on diet. By improving our Xi habits, eating properly and having regular check-ups, we can significantly reduce the risk of stones and protect our health.
Three eats: a dietary magic weapon for stone prevention and treatment
1. Eight glasses of water a day: lubricate the body and keep away from stones
Water is the source of life and the weapon of choice for preventing stones. Adequate water intake can dilute crystal-forming factors such as calcium, oxalic acid, and uric acid in the urine, thereby reducing the chance of them depositing stones in the kidneys. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, especially after hot weather or physical activity. Adequate water intake has been shown to not only prevent the formation of stones, but also to facilitate the passage of existing stones.
2. Rich in fiber, protect healthy kidneys
Cellulose plays a non-negligible role in preventing stones. High-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains reduce the amount of calcium in the urine, which reduces the chance of calcium combining with oxalic acid to form stones. Fiber also helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn affects overall metabolism and reduces the risk of stone formation. For example, consuming leafy greens, fiber-rich fruits, and unrefined grains is a simple and effective way to prevent stones.
3. Moderate calcium, the key to a balanced diet
Although excessive calcium intake can increase the risk of certain types of stones, moderate calcium intake can actually help reduce the formation of certain types of stones. Proper calcium intake can bind to oxalic acid in the intestines, reducing the amount of oxalic acid that is absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually reaches the kidneys. Calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, legumes, and some green leafy vegetables should be consumed in moderation rather than avoided entirely. The key is to find a balance and ensure that the amount of calcium in the diet is neither too much nor too little.
The above three dietary recommendations will not only help prevent and control stones, but also promote overall health. These simple dietary changes can significantly reduce the risk of stones and lay a solid foundation for kidney health.
Three Don't Eat: Key Dietary Principles for Stone Prevention
Avoiding high-salt foods: the first step to reducing the risk of stones
A high-salt diet is one of the main factors that contribute to the formation of stones. Too much salt increases the burden on the kidneys, leading to an increase in the concentration of calcium in the urine, which increases the risk of stones. It is recommended that the daily salt intake should not exceed 5 grams. For your daily diet, choose low- or no-salt foods, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoid processed foods and salty snacks.
Control of high-purine foods: natural enemies of uric acid stones
Purine is a substance that occurs naturally in food, but excessive intake can increase uric acid levels, which can promote the formation of uric acid stones. High-purine foods include offal foods, certain fish and seafood, and yeast-containing foods. It is recommended to reduce the intake of these foods and instead increase the proportion of vegetables and whole grains, which are low in purines and more kidney-friendly.
Reduce excess animal protein: Eat a balanced diet to prevent stones
Excessive intake of animal protein can lead to an increase in the amount of calcium and uric acid in the urine, increasing the burden on the kidneys and thus increasing the risk of stone formation. It is recommended to reduce the intake of red meat, poultry and fish, and focus on plant-based proteins, such as legumes and soy products. At the same time, maintaining a moderate intake of animal proteins, such as lean meats and eggs, can help maintain nutritional balance.
Implementing these principles in your daily diet will not only help prevent the formation of stones, but also promote overall health. It is important to realize that a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are key to preventing stones. By adjusting our diet Xi habits, we can greatly reduce the risk of stone formation and improve quality of life.