Kidney Stone Prevention
Proper hydration is a key preventive measure. Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends drinking up to 12 glasses of water daily. Drinking more fluids increases the amount of urine you pass, which helps flush the kidneys. The Mayo Clinic recommends passing 2.5 liters of urine a day. You can substitute some glasses of water with ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, and fruit juice.
Eating oxalate-rich foods in moderation and reducing your intake of salt and animal proteins can also lower your risk of kidney stones. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help prevent the formation of calcium and uric acid stones. If you’ve had a kidney stone, or you’re at risk for a kidney stone, speak with your doctor and discuss the best methods of prevention.