Let’s be honest, kidney stones are one of those things you never really think about… until you have them. And when you do, they can hit you like a freight train. The pain is intense, the discomfort is real, and all you want is relief. But here’s the good news: kidney stones are preventable.
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, we see patients every week who come for kidney stone treatment in Bangalore and say the same thing: “I wish I had known this earlier.” So, we thought we’d put together a simple, easy-to-follow guide on how you can reduce your risk of kidney stones, and maybe skip the whole painful experience altogether.
Here are 5 things that can help you take a pass on kidney stones.
1. Water, Water, and More Water
If you remember only one thing from this blog, let it be this: hydration is key. Your kidneys need water to flush out toxins and waste. If you don’t drink enough water, everything becomes concentrated, including the minerals that form kidney stones.
Aim for at least 2.5 to 3 liters of water a day. If you’ve had kidney stones before, your doctor might recommend even more.
Pro tip: If your urine is light yellow or clear, you’re doing it right. Dark yellow? Time to grab that water bottle.
2. Watch Your Salt Intake
We all love salty snacks, but your kidneys? Not so much. A high-sodium diet increases the amount of calcium in your urine, and that can lead to stone formation. It's not just chips and fries either; watch out for hidden salt in processed foods, canned soups, and restaurant meals.
Try to keep your sodium intake under 2,300 mg a day (about one teaspoon of salt). Your kidneys will thank you.
3. Go Easy on the Oxalates
Oxalates are naturally occurring compounds found in many healthy foods, like spinach, beets, nuts, and even dark chocolate. The issue? They bind with calcium in your urine to form kidney stones.
Now, this doesn’t mean you have to ditch these foods completely. It just means you need to eat them in moderation, especially if you’re prone to stones. Pairing oxalate-rich foods with calcium-rich foods (like yogurt or milk) during meals can also help prevent stone formation.
4. Calcium Is Not the Enemy
There’s a myth out there that cutting out calcium helps avoid kidney stones. Not true! In fact, low calcium diets can actually increase your risk. When your body doesn’t get enough calcium from your food, it starts pulling it from your bones, and more oxalate ends up in your urine.
What you should do is get your calcium from food (not supplements unless prescribed). Dairy products, leafy greens, and calcium-fortified items are all great sources.
5. Know When to Seek Help
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, kidney stones can still happen. If you feel a sharp pain in your back or side, nausea, pain while urinating, or notice blood in your urine, don’t ignore it. The sooner you seek medical help, the better the outcome.
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar, one of the most experienced urologists offering kidney stone treatment in Bangalore, personally evaluates and manages every case. Whether it’s medical management, laser stone removal, or preventive guidance, we make sure you’re in safe hands every step of the way.
We don’t just treat the stone, we help you understand why it formed and how to stop it from happening again.
Bonus Tip: Stay Active!
It might surprise you, but exercise can support kidney health. Staying physically active helps regulate calcium metabolism and keeps your weight in check. Obesity and sedentary lifestyles are linked to a higher risk of stones, so even a brisk 30-minute walk daily can make a big difference.
Kidney stones aren’t just painful. They can disrupt your life, your sleep, and your peace of mind. But the great thing is, many of the steps to prevent them are simple changes you can start today: drink more water, watch your salt and oxalate intake, eat balanced meals, and stay active.
And if you’re ever in doubt or experiencing symptoms, don’t wait. Reach out for help.
Looking for kidney stone treatment in Bangalore? Visit Shree Srinivasa Uro Care and consult directly with Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar. With years of expertise and a patient-first approach, you’ll get the care and clarity you deserve.
Ready to take control of your kidney health?
Book a consultation today at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care and let’s make sure you don’t have to meet another kidney stone again!