Summer is a high-risk period for people susceptible to kidney stones. Heat, humidity, and lack of hydration can increase this risk.
Kidney stones are formed by the crystallization of mineral salts in the urine due to a large amount of these, or because there is not enough liquid to dissolve them. This way they can grow to form a small stone. To prevent them, it is essential to drink plenty of water to try to dilute everything.
However, in summer, heat, humidity and lack of adequate hydration significantly increase the risks, as American nephrologist Dr. William Haley reminds us. It should be taken into account that people who have previously suffered from kidney stones have a higher risk. Our body is composed mainly of water, but in hot weather, it is possible that we are not drinking as much, or the right amount, as we should, so we can become dehydrated and increase the risk of stone formation.
HYDRATE A LOT
To avoid the formation of these stones, the first measure is to drink 2 to 3 liters throughout the day. It is also very important to limit the consumption of alcohol, meat and seafood, and to eat a balanced diet with vegetables and fruit.
ADAPT YOUR DIET ACCORDING TO THE TYPE OF STONE
If you have already had a stone and know what type it is, you can adapt your diet and/or take food supplements that allow you to regulate urinary pH to facilitate the dissolution of mineral salts, and also contain crystallization inhibitors that prevent stone formation.
-
In case of calcium stones: use products with phytate, magnesium and polyphenols, which help inhibit crystallization. In addition, you can increase the benefits by consuming recommended foods rich in phytate (legumes, brown rice, oats, etc.), magnesium and calcium through dairy products.
-
In case of uric acid stones: use products with potassium-magnesium citrate and theobromine that increase urinary pH and inhibit the formation and growth of crystals. In addition, you can increase the benefit by limiting the consumption of red meat, seafood and alcohol and the recommended consumption of fruits, vegetables and sparkling water.
-
In case of infectious stones (struvite): use products with phytate and L-methionine that decrease urine pH and inhibit the formation and growth of crystals. In addition, you can increase the benefits by encouraging the consumption of phytate-rich products (legumes, brown rice, oats, etc.) and limiting the intake of carbonated drinks.
