Kidney Health & Kidney Stones

Kidney disease is on the rise in the U.S. - diabetes and excess use of over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs are the main reasons. Kidney disease is considered ‘silent’ because kidney function can decline without any apparent symptoms until quite a bit of kidney function is lost.

Therefore, it’s especially important to protect your kidneys, especially if you’ve been hard on them by taking a lot (or even moderate amounts) of NSAIDs over the years. Additionally, chronically elevated blood sugar (diabetes) and high blood pressure can both damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys over time.

Aside from kidney disease, kidney stones are a relatively common condition. They are crystalline formations (made of various types of minerals) that develop in the kidneys and cause excruciating pain.

Kidney stones can affect anyone, but certain demographic factors may increase the risk. Men are more prone to developing kidney stones than women, and the risk tends to peak in individuals between the ages of 30 and 60. Family history can also play a role, suggesting a genetic predisposition to stone formation.

Causes of Kidney Stones

The formation of kidney stones is often attributed to the concentration of certain substances in the urine. The most common types of kidney stones include calcium oxalate, uric acid, struvite, and cystine stones. Dehydration, dietary choices high in oxalates or purines, and certain medical conditions that affect mineral balance can contribute to their development.

Lifestyle Factors

Several lifestyle factors can influence the likelihood of developing kidney stones. Inadequate hydration is a primary culprit, as it leads to concentrated urine, providing an ideal environment for crystals to form. A diet high in sodium, excess animal proteins, and oxalate-rich foods can contribute to stone formation. Obesity and conditions such as metabolic syndrome also heighten the risk.

Natural Medicine Solutions

Vitamin B6 & Magnesium
Maintaining optimal levels of vitamin B6 and magnesium through a nutrient-rich diet or supplements can be beneficial. Combining vitamin B6 with magnesium has the potential to impede the formation of oxalate stones. Both magnesium and vitamin B6 play essential roles in converting oxalate into alternative substances within the body. A deficiency in vitamin B6 can contribute to a rise in kidney stone occurrences due to heightened levels of urinary oxalate.

Calcium and Oxalate-Rich Foods
Both too much calcium and an excessive intake of oxalate-rich foods can contribute to the formation of kidney stones, but when consumed together in moderation, they might not necessarily lead to stone formation. Understanding the nature of these substances sheds light on this paradox.

Calcium is a crucial mineral for various bodily functions, including bone health and muscle function. However, an excess of dietary calcium, especially in the form of supplements, can contribute to the development of kidney stones. This occurs when the kidneys excrete an excessive amount of calcium into the urine, leading to its crystallization and eventual formation of stones.

Oxalate is a naturally occurring compound found in many foods. While oxalate is not harmful in moderate amounts, an overabundance of oxalate can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, a common type of kidney stone. Certain foods, such as beets, nuts, chocolate, and leafy greens, are rich in oxalates.

When consumed separately in excess, both high calcium and high oxalate diets can increase the risk of kidney stones. However, when these foods are eaten together in moderation, they may not necessarily lead to stone formation. Calcium and oxalate have a unique relationship: calcium can bind with oxalate in the digestive tract, forming compounds that are less likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream. This means that when calcium-rich foods are consumed alongside oxalate-rich foods, the risk of crystallization in the kidneys may be reduced.

best natural kidney remedies

In essence, it's not the individual presence of calcium or oxalate in the diet that poses a significant risk, but rather the excessive consumption of either, which can tip the balance and contribute to kidney stone formation. A balanced and varied diet, along with adequate hydration, plays a crucial role in mitigating this risk.

The key lies in moderation. Including a variety of calcium-rich foods in the diet and balancing it with a moderate intake of oxalate-containing foods allows for a harmonious interplay. Additionally, staying well-hydrated is crucial, as it helps prevent the concentration of calcium and oxalate in the urine, reducing the likelihood of stone formation.

In essence, it's not the individual presence of calcium or oxalate in the diet that poses a significant risk, but rather the excessive consumption of either, which can tip the balance and contribute to kidney stone formation. A balanced and varied diet, along with adequate hydration, plays a crucial role in mitigating this risk.

Prevention

Preventing kidney stones involves adopting lifestyle changes that promote overall kidney health. Staying well-hydrated is crucial (drink half your body weight in ounces each day) as it helps dilute urine and prevents crystal formation. Dietary modifications, including a balanced intake of calcium, limiting sodium, and avoiding excessive consumption of oxalate-rich foods, can be effective preventive measures.

Here are some top lifestyle behaviors and nutritional guidelines to help prevent kidney stones:

Stay Hydrated
Limit Sodium Intake
Moderate Protein Intake (If you're high risk for stone formation)
Moderate Oxalate-Rich Foods
Ensure Adequate Calcium Intake through diet
Consume a Balanced Diet (that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins and avoid excessive consumption of high-sugar and high-fat foods)
Maintain a Healthy Weight (a combination of balanced diet and regular physical activity)
Moderate Caffeine, Alcohol High-Sugar Drinks Intake

Remember that individual susceptibility to kidney stones can vary based on factors such as genetics and medical history. If you've had kidney stones before or have specific medical conditions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

Mountain Peak’s Kidney formula supplies the specific nutrients the body uses to support healthy kidney function and anyone with kidney issues ranging from abuse from too much ibuprofen, diabetes, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease and even someone who’s struggled with kidney infections from time to time.

The formula includes Pipsissewa which contains constituents and metabolites that have diuretic and astringent properties that may be useful in supporting natural kidney cleansing processes.

Best Uses For Kidney Formula:

Beginning stages of kidney disease
Post bad urinary tract infection that has worked its way up to the kidneys
Chronic kidney disease
Protection of the kidneys post NSAID use

Kidney disease is especially insidious and symptoms won’t show until a lot of kidney function has been lost however kidney formula works to help keep the kidneys as healthy as possible.

Understanding the demographics, causes, and lifestyle factors related to kidney stones empowers individuals to take proactive steps in prevention. These natural solutions work in harmony with the body, supporting kidney function and reducing the likelihood of stone formation.