Are you suffering from kidney stones? Kidney stones have become a common and painful condition that affects many people around the world. There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding kidney stones; you might’ve probably heard one of them, which is Try beer for kidney stones.
It may sound appealing and even seem enjoyable for most of us, but before opening a cold one under kidney health, let’s uncover the truth behind it. It may be tempting to try out as it can be an enjoyable way to flush out those little pain givers.
But the truth behind this connection can be something else could even make the situation worse than it already is. So, let’s get into finding out the truth behind drinking beer, which helps cure kidney stones.
In this article, we will shed some light and uncover the myth surrounding beer for kidney stones work. Also, collect more insight into what can be helpful for kidney stones.
Does having beer for kidney stones work?
Kidney stones are hard deposits that are developed from minerals and salts that are created inside your kidney. They can be formed when your urine gets concerned, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Kidney stones don’t have a singular cause; there can be various factors that increase the risk of developing them. They are usually from when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances that can be calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. Kidney stones can be quite painful to pass, but they don’t cause permanent damage if diagnosed on time. Drinking beer for kidney stones is a very common myth. However, it is not supported scientifically and can also do more harm. And here’s the reason why:
1. Dehydration:
Any alcohol that you consume, including beer, can make your body dehydrated. Dehydration is a major risk for developing kidney stones.
2. Increased Uric acid:
Beer has certain substances that lead to an increase in uric acid levels in your body, which also increases the risk of developing uric acid kidney stones.
3. Oxalate Content:
Beer contains oxalates, which is a common component of kidney stones. Consuming large amounts of beer can increase oxalate levels in the urine, promoting stone formation.
4. Calorie content:
Beer is known to be high in calories, and consuming a huge amount of beer can result in weight gain. Obesity is another reason for kidney stone formation.
Though beer can be a diuretic, it can help in the passing of more urine and result in the excreting of small stones. But the twist here is that the size of the stones can be 5mm, so it is difficult to excrete them from the passage, which has a size of 3mm. If you are consuming beer when in pain or want to pass urine, it will make things more miserable. Beer will produce more urine that you cannot expel, thus making it more painful. It is also important to consult with a medical professional for a proper diagnosis need to perform if you have a kidney stone. They will recommend some course of treatment for further care.
We have made a list of things to prevent kidney stones
1. Stay hydrated:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your urine diluted.
2. Dietary changes:
You need to avoid the intake of sodium, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods including spinach, rhubarb, and almonds.
3. Maintain a healthy weight:
Obesity can be a risk factor for kidney stones to develop, so it is advised to lose excess weight can reduce the chances of getting kidney stones.
4. Manage underlying medical conditions:
Certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism or inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of kidney stones. Addressing these conditions can help prevent stones.
Alternative beverages to help prevent kidney stones:
Kidney stones can be painful and recurring issues, but staying hydrated is important for prevention. There are various types of beverages that you choose to make a difference, such as:
1. Water:
It may seem like a common remedy, but water is the ultimate kidney stone fighter. You should aim for at least 8 glasses a day, or enough to make your urine pale yellow. Water helps to dilute your urine, resulting in the prevention of minerals from concentrating and forming stones.
2. Lemon or Lime Juice:
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime to your water for a citrusy twist. These fruits are rich in citrate, which can inhibit the formation of calcium stones, the most common type.
3. Orange Juice:
Orange Juice is another good source of citrate, even this can also help reduce the risk of stone formation.
4. Coffee:
It is said in a few studies that moderate coffee consumption may lower the risk of kidney stones. However, be mindful of your caffeine intake if you’re prone to anxiety or sleep issues.
5. Green Tea:
Just like coffee, even green tea is linked with reducing the risk of kidney stones in some studies. It also includes antioxidants, offering additional health benefits.
Conclusion:
Drinking alcohol is not advised as a medication to remove kidney stones from your mind. Hence, beer for kidney stones is not a good remedy to try. Consumption of alcohol can dehydrate your body, and beer contains some chemical substance that leads to the formation of kidney stones. These substances include oxalates and purines, so it is not supported to drink beer for kidney stones as it can impact your condition.
FAQ:
1. What is the best drink for kidney stones?
Drink plenty of water. Extra water dilutes the substances in urine that lead to stones. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce cups a day. Add citric acid by squeezing in some fresh lemon or orange juice or switch up and incorporate low-sugar/no-sugar lemonade and orange juice.
2. What dissolves kidney stones fast?
You can pass kidney stones more quickly by drinking plenty of water and fluids to help flush out the stones. Taking pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain.
3. What are the worst drinks for kidney stones?
Colas are made of chemicals and high amounts of sugar. Drinking flavored carbonated drinks can increase dehydration as well. To prevent kidney stones, hydration is important. Dehydration is increased with the consumption of caffeine, and most colas contain caffeine.
