Kidney Stone Prevention
The Kidney Stone Center team considers factors like genetics, age, test results, other health issues and diet to determine potential causes of stones. If available, our clinicians also analyze kidney stones removed or passed by patients to find clues about how they formed.
Considering each patient’s case, our team collaborates to develop medical and dietary plans to help prevent stones in the future.
Our team also partners with our patients’ primary care physicians during and after treatment to ensure a level of care coordination that promotes the long-term health of the patient and the prevention of kidney stones.
Diet Is Critical to Prevention
Nutrition is integral to the treatment and prevention of stones, as diet is one of several key factors that can promote or prevent stone formation. Our registered dietitian tailors a plan for each patient with the goal of reducing that risk.
Food and drink choices are factors that can influence kidney stone formation.
Fruits, vegetables and dairy products can promote kidney stone development, as well as nutrients like protein, sodium, fructose, and vitamin and mineral pills.
Maintaining proper hydration is one of the most important things a person can do to prevent stone formation. Up to 12 glasses of water a day can help to flush away the substances that form stones in the kidneys.
Kidney Stone Center at The Miriam Hospital Q/A 2
Gyan Pareek, MD, director of the Kidney Stone Center, discusses how kidney stones are treated and ways to prevent them.