How to Dissolve a Kidney Stone
Kidney stones form due to a build-up of uric acid in the kidneys. These hard, unpleasant stones are lumps of calcium that form because of the uric acid. Kidney stones can be quite dangerous, and if you are unable to pass one on your own, contact your doctor as soon as possible to avoid complications.
- Drink plenty of water. Although this is recommended for everyone, if you suffer from kidney stones, water is even more important for you. Drink at least eight ounces of water every hour to keep your system flushed out. When you first start drinking more water than usual, your body is not used to it and will flush your system out more rapidly. As your body adjusts, you can increase your water intake.
- Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and add whole grains to your diet. Eat as few processed foods as possible. Processed foods contain chemicals that your body cannot use as well natural foods.
- Drink herbal tea to help flush kidney stones. Meadowsweet and marshmallow root are particularly recommended for people who are prone to kidney stones since these herbs help to flush build-ups of uric acid from your body before it can become a kidney stone.
- Avoid caffeinated beverages as they can make kidney stones worse. The high amounts of sugar in some of these drinks can also exacerbate kidney stone problems.
- Exercise regularly. Your body needs to move in order to help move fluids through your blood stream and other systems. By getting regular exercise, you can keep those pumps moving freely.