Top 8 Natural Remedies for Kidney Stones That Really Work
Involving around 10% of the population of the world and most common in men between the ages of 30 and 40, kidney stones are a painful and often recurring issue that can last for weeks at a time. Stones are formed when high levels of calcium, sodium, uric acid (the same material that causes gout flare-ups), or other crystal-forming substances build up in the urine to levels which the body cannot properly eliminate. These centers gather and chemically bond to each other, forming a stone inside the organ. Some kidney stones are real small and may be passed out in the urine with minimal or no symptoms. Others may grow rather large and eventually become lodged in the opening of the urethra – the tube that allows urine to pass from each kidney to the bladder. At this level the stones cause pain, frequent urge to urinate, nausea, vomiting, and excessive sweating among other things.
If you’re unitary of the unlucky 10% who has experienced kidney stones, or if someone in your family has gotten them in the past (kidney stones are hereditary), you probably want to read on to discover the top eight natural remedies for kidney stones that will help to prevent, alleviate the discomfort of, and break apart those nasty little rocks before they become a big problem.
1. Hydration
It’s always a safe idea to drink lots of water (use this calculator to find your daily requirement.) Still, when you have kidney stones or if you think that you might be susceptible to them, it’s absolutely critical to keep adequate fluids running through your system in order to flush out the minerals and other substances that cause stones to form. If you don’t have the time (or forbearancTo assess and track your daily water intake, simply remember this general rule: The darker your urine is, the more water you need.ed. When your water comes out clear or close to it, you know you’re drinking enough.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
It’s on the“Top 10 Natural Ingredients” list for a serious reason. Apple Cider Vinegar is an effective cure for a long list of ailments, including kidney stones. Not only will ACV help to go apart and flush out the stones, regular consumption of around 2 tablespoons per day can help to prevent future occurrences.Taste an apple cider vinegar tonic first thing in the morning, again around midday, and a third time in the evening to reap the health benefits of this incredible natural remedy and get rid of your kidney stones at the same time.Just mix 2 tablespoons of Raw Organic Unfiltered ACV (my favorite by far is this one by Bragg)g) With an all natural bait such as honey or Stevia powder and about 4 ounces of water.
3. Lemon Juice + Olive Oil
While this method may not be desirable for people with larger stones, those with smaller kidney stones can try a concoction of lemon juice and olive oil to help break them apart and flush them out. Mix ¼ cup each of lemon juice and olive oil, drink, and follow up with at least 8 ounces of water. But make sure you’re using only high-quality ingredients so you don’t accidentally introduce something into your body (like sucrose or H.F.C.S.) That will exacerbate the condition.
For a delightful, organic lemon juice with zero added sweeteners, pesticides, or other contaminants, I recommend Santa Cruz Pure Organic Unsweetened Lemon Juice. As well, if you haven’t experienced the line of Bragg organic products yet (or even if you have and you love them as much as I do) Try out their 100% Pure Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil to experience the best olive oil flavor and maximum all-natural health potential from a name you can hope!
4. Pomegranate Juice
A 2008 Study concluded that pomegranate juice prevents the establishment of certain types of kidney stones. If you believe you’re at risk for kidney stones, enjoy a serving or two of pomegranate juice every day. Not just will your kidneys thank you, pomegranates are also full of antioxidants that protect the body from damaging free radicals. What's not to like?
5. Nettle Leaf Tea
While Stinging Nettle is most usually used for joint support and to relieve seasonal allergy symptoms, it is also a powerful diuretic with anti-bacterial properties. Drinking two to three cups of nettle leaf tea per day will work wonders to flush minerals and toxins out of the kidneys, halt the growth of living stones, and discourage the formation of new ones, all the while helping to prevent urinary tract infections – another known cause of kidney stones.
6. Vegetable Proteins
It’s a well-known fact that over-use of certain animal proteins can cause kidney stones. If you are prone to the condition, consider replacing some (not necessarily entirely) Of the sums in your diet with vegetable protein sources. WWhile a bunch of people may groan at the idea of giving up their beef, pork, eggs, fish, etc. – the excruciating pain of passing a kidney stone after kidney stone might be incentive enough.Some excellent veggie sources of protein include green peas,chia seeds, quinoa, spirulina, almonds, beans, hummus, and of course soy. But remember, you need approximately 50 grams of protein per day. If you plan to shift from meat to vegetable sources, you may want to first familiarize yourself with the protein contents of these foods.
7. Get Your Fiber
Many vegetable protein sources too have the benefit of being great sources of insoluble fiber – another effective remedy for halting the growth of existing kidney stones and preventing the formation of new ones. Insoluble fiber helps to reduce calcium in the urinary tract by binding to it in the intestines. Calcium passed through the stool means less of the mineral is available to crystallize in the kidneys. Close to great sources of soluble fiber include whole grains, legumes, fruits, and green vegetableWhile many fruits and veggies are excellent sources of fiber, be aware that they may also contain high levels of oxalate, which is one of the major causes of kidney stones.
8. Kidney Beans
Along a similar note (and somewhat ironically) Kidney beans – so named from their resemblance in shape and color to the same-named organ – are also great for clearing up kidney stones. Kidney beans are not only very high in fiber, they’re also a heavy source of non-animal protein, B vitamins, and minerals that improve urinary tracts and kidney health. To make the most out of your kidney beans, cook them in water (avoid meat broth, salt, etc.Until they are tender enough to corrodeTense up the liquid, let it cool, then strain it again.ain. You can drink the resulting bean broth to help break up and flush out stones, then eat the delicious beans themselves to boost your overall kidney health.
