Often compared to a pain far worse than that of giving birth, kidney stones are no laughing matter. With no one cause for kidney stones, they can affect anyone at any time. Typically kidney stones are the formation of uric acid, calcium and oxalate into crystals.
When small, they can easily be passed when we urinate. But the larger they become the greater pain they cause and surgery may be required to remove them. Kidney stones can be seen using an X-ray or scan, but pay attention for symptoms such as fowl smelling urine, chills, fever, vomiting or nausea and blood in urine for other tell-tale signs.
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If you have kidney stones and want to hold off on surgery, here are some natural remedies.
8 Natural remedies for kidney stones
Drink up: A potential cause of kidney stones is dehydration. You want to flush out as much of the minerals that can form into crystals leading to kidney stones. To help reduce them drinking water is key. Drinking adequate amounts of water can help you do this. Not a fan of water? Try infusing it with mint, lemon, orange or other fruits to give it some flavor.
Apple cider vinegar: Is there anything apple cider vinegar can’t do? It appears on many natural remedy lists, so it should be of no surprise apple cider vinegar can help relieve kidney stones. Apple cider vinegar can work to break down kidney stones as well as prevent future ones if consumed daily. Apple cider vinegar can be quite strong in flavor, so diluting two tablespoons in some water is an easy and effective way to drink it.
Lemon juice and olive oil: When stones are small and more likely to pass, lemon juice and olive may help ease this process. Mixing lemon juice and olive oil, followed by drinking water, can help break down smaller stones.
Pomegranate juice: In a 2008 study it was revealed that pomegranate juice may prevent certain forms of kidney stones. Aside from its antioxidant content, not only will pomegranate juice improve your health, but it can reduce your risk of kidney stones. Keep in mind that many fruit juices contain high amounts of added sugar. If possible opt for an organic variety.
Fiber: Fiber is required for overall good health and it, too, is a great remedy for kidney stones. Just like how fiber can move other things along it can also help prevent calcium from entering the urinary tract. Good sources of fiber include whole grains, legumes and vegetables.
Watermelon: Watermelon is a natural remedy for kidney stones because it not only hydrates you but provides potassium as well. Potassium helps keep the kidneys healthy by maintaining acid levels. Furthermore, its water content will keep you hydrated and help minerals move out of your body.
Kidney beans: Why not treat a kidney problem with a food of the same name? Kidney beans contain fiber, which we’ve already discussed to help reduce the onset of kidney stones.
Celery: The use of celery is beneficial with pain management associated with kidney stones. Celery contains anti-spasmodic properties and it can help eliminate toxins that may be present in the body. You can drink celery by running it through a juicer or snack on it throughout the day.
These eight home remedies for kidney stones can break down existing stones, prevent future ones and even reduce some of the pain associated with passing them. Although treating kidney stones naturally is ideal, if the pain and fever associated with kidney stones becomes substantial, seeking medical attention is advised.
Related Reading:
Know the signs of kidney stones
Kidney stones can cause urinary tract infections and kidney damage if left untreated. The prevalence rises as we age. For men, the chances increase as they enter their 40s, and continues to rise into their 70’s. For women, the chance of kidney stones peaks in their 50’s. Continue reading…
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Sources:
//www.belmarrahealth.com/know-the-signs-of-kidney-stones/
http://www.naturallivingideas.com/natural-remedies-for-kidney-stones/
http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-kidney-stones.html
http://www.naturalremediesforkidneystones.net/
http://www.medindia.net/homeremedies/kidneystones.asp
