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How to Prevent Kidney Stones

How to prevent kidney stones relies, in part, on lifestyle habits. Modifying total daily caloric intake may be an important measure in the reduction of stone disease as higher dietary energy intake (high caloric foods) may increase the risk of developing stones by more than 40 percent, according to the American Urological Association (A.U.A.)  Drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day may help drain metabolites that may otherwise form kidney stones. Recent observational study results also offer clues that may reduce the risk of kidney stones in menopausal women.  Learn more about how to prevent kidney stones!

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, Georgetown University and University of Washington School of Medicine, recently presented the results of a study at the 2013 Annual Scientific A.U.A. Meeting of the American Urological Association that was designed to help evaluate the relationship between kidney stone formation and physical activity, dietary energy intake and body mass index (BMI). The results of the observational study were significant for Postmenopausal women. Results demonstrated that women in this demographic who increase their physical activity may reduce their risk of kidney stones. Researchers from the above mentioned Universities culminated data from the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study to identify over 85,000 postmenopausal women participants. After adjusting for age, race, region, and dietary water, sodium, animal protein and calcium intake, the data suggests:   

• Greater physical activity may reduce the risk of kidney stones in postmenopausal women by as much as 31%.

•The amount of physical activity, rather than the intensity of the exercise is a key factor to the decrease of kidney stone risk in postmenopausal women.

In the end, lifestyle changes, such as, exercise may help prevent kidney stones. Further research is required to understand if this observation holds true for other demographics.

Next Visit, What are Kidney Stones for More Prevention Tips

It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition.