Background Information
Coffee is one of the most widely-consumed beverages around the world and has been for centuries. Caffeinated coffee is known to have significant and diverse health benefits, but it is also associated with some downsides. One of the potential drawbacks of regularly drinking coffee is an increased risk of developing kidney stones.
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. While the most common symptoms are pain and difficulty urinating, some types of kidney stones are asymptomatic. While most people succumb to kidney stone-induced pain at some point in their lives, the painful incidence and recurrence rates have been on the rise over the past decades.
Relevant Data
One study published in Urology suggested that drinking two or more cups of coffee daily may result in a 19 percent increased risk of developing kidney stones over those who consumed less than one cup daily.
According to the same study, drinking four or more cups of caffeinated coffee each day may result in a 25 percent increased risk of developing kidney stones compared to those who drank less than one cup. The researchers of this study also noted that those who drank more than six cups of coffee per day had the greatest risk of developing the condition.
Expert’s Perspective
Dr. Ernesto T. figueroa, Urologist at Wexford Medical Group said: “Caffeinated coffee may contribute to an increased risk of developing kidney stones. Coffee is a diuretic, which means it will increase urine production and reduce fluid retention in the body, which may result in lower concentrations of minerals in the urinary tract.”
He further explains: “Kidney stones are formed when there is an excess of the mineral and electrolytes present in the urine. Any disruption to this balance—such as the effects of caffeine—can alter the ratio in the urinary tract and increase the risk of kidney stones.”
Analysis
The link between coffee drinking and an increased risk of developing kidney stones is not definitive. Most studies involving the relationship between coffee and kidney stones reference that further research is needed to better understand if there is a true correlation between the two.
Drinking coffee without caffeine may be beneficial for reducing the risk of developing the condition. If a person wants to reduce their risk of developing kidney stones but still enjoys the taste of a cup of coffee in the morning, decaffeinated is the way to go.
Furthermore, staying hydrated has been suggested as an effective way to naturally keep the body free of kidney stones. Increasing the amount of water consumption each day can be beneficial for maintaining healthy kidney function even among regular coffee drinkers.
Coffee Alternatives
Even though there is no definitive evidence of the correlation between coffee and the increased risk of kidney stones, it is still advisable to opt for coffee alternatives if one prefers to avoid any potential risks.
Oolong Tea is often appreciated as a great coffee alternative which is known to be incredibly beneficial for kidney health. Studies have found that Oolong tea is significantly effective in preventing calcium deposits from forming in the urinary tract.
In comparison with coffee, Burdock Tea is especially beneficial for both the prevention and removal of kidney stones. Drinking this tea has been found to help in dissolving existing stones and preventing the formation of new ones.
Kidney Stone Treatments
Generally speaking, the treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone. If a person is suffering from pain due to kidney stones, medications can be prescribed to ease the pain and treat an infection.
For smaller stones, drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding twisting or straining can help to pass the stones naturally. Other treatments to consider include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (EWSL), ureteroscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
Medical Prevention
There are several medical measures that can be taken to prevent the formation of renal calculi, the medical term for kidney stones. These can include drugs such as alpha blockers, antispasmodics, thiazide diuretics and allopurinol. Regularly drinking water is also recommended, as well as eating less animal protein and sodium.
Gastrointestinal meds are often advised to stop the absorption process of calcium, magnesium, citrate and other stones that originate in the gut. Phosphate binders can also be used to help neutralise the acid in the urine.
Dietary Prevention
Preventative nutrition is extremely important for minimizing the chances of developing kidney stones. Eating more foods that are rich in fiber and antioxidants is a major part of this. Fruits and vegetables such as leafy greens, berries, oranges and apples are all rich in essential vitamins and minerals that can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Limiting the intake of sodium by avoiding high-sodium processed foods and replacing them with healthy, whole options like fruits, vegetables and nuts is also beneficial. Reducing the overall amount of animal protein that is consumed in one’s diet is also recommended.
Additionally, drinking plenty of water each day to stay hydrated is the best way to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies can be used both as a preventative measure and as part of the healing process for people suffering from kidney stones.
Drinking a mixture of equal parts lemon juice and olive oil is believed to help break down kidney stones and help them pass through the urinary tract. Apple cider vinegar is also renowned for its healing benefits when tackling kidney stones.
Alternative practices like acupuncture, cupping and massage therapy can be beneficial for easing pain and reducing inflammation associated with kidney stones.
Meditation and Stress Reduction
Stress can worsen the pain of kidney stones and further contribute to their formation. Therefore, reducing stress and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga can be beneficial for preventing and treating kidney stones.
Meditation is believed to have the ability to reduce inflammation and heat in the body, which can be helpful for people suffering from the pain of kidney stones. It is also known to strengthen the body’s immune system and reduce the risk of further complications.
