THE URINARY TRACT INTRODUCTION

The urinary tract, or system, consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located below the ribs toward the middle of the back, one on each side of the spine. The kidneys remove extra water and wastes from the blood, producing urine. They also keep a stable balance of salts and other substances in the blood. The kidneys produce hormones that help build strong bones and form red blood cells. Narrow tubes called ureters carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, an oval-shaped chamber in the lower abdomen. Like a balloon, the bladder's elastic walls stretch and expand to store urine. They flatten together when urine is emptied through the urethra to outside the body.

Kidneys remove waste products from the body, keep the body chemicals in balance, and help maintain the body's water balance. There are a number of different kidney (renal) problems that may occur. The kidneys may be damaged by exposure to certain drugs or toxins, including heavy metals, solvents, chemotherapy agents, snake or insect venom, poisonous mushrooms, and pesticides. Impaired kidney function or renal failure can also accompany or result from many other disorders, such as congestive heart failure, diabetes, lupus, chronic hypertension, sickle-cell anemia and liver disease.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Kidney Disease & Renal Failure



KIDNEY ANATOMY

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs in the abdomen of the human body. The kidneys filter wastes from the blood and excrete them, along with water, as urine. There is one kidney on each side of the spine in the lower middle of the back. The right kidney sits just below the liver. The left kidney sits below the diaphragm and next to the spleen. They are surrounded by two layers of fat which help cushion them. Each kidney weighs about 1/4 pound and contains approximately 1 million filtering units called nephrons. Each nephron is made of a glomerulus and a tubule. The glomerulus is a miniature filtering and sieving device while the tubule is a tiny tube-like structure attached to the glomerulus.

The kidneys are connected to the urinary bladder by tubes called ureters. Urine is stored in the urinary bladder until the bladder is emptied by urinating. The bladder is connected to the outside of the body by another tube-like structure called the urethra.

The most important function of the kidneys is the removal of waste products produced by metabolism and excess water from the blood, assisting in the homeostasis of the body by regulating the balance of ions and water in the blood. The kidneys process about 200 liters of blood every day and produce about 2 liters of urine. The waste products are generated from normal metabolic process including the breakdown of active tissues, ingested foods, and other substances. The kidneys allow consumption of a variety of foods, drugs, vitamins and supplements, additives, and excess fluids without worry that toxic by-products will build up to harmful levels. The kidney also plays a major role in regulating levels of various minerals such as calcium, sodium and potassium in the blood.

THE FILTRATION PROCESS

As the first step in filtration, blood is delivered into the glomeruli by microscopic leaky blood vessels called capillaries. Here, blood is filtered of waste products and fluid while red blood cells, proteins, and large molecules are retained in the capillaries. In addition to wastes, some useful substances are also filtered out. The filtrate collects in a sac called Bowman's capsule and drains into the tubule.

The tubules are the next step in the filtration process. The tubules are lined with highly functional cells which process the filtrate, reabsorbing water and chemicals useful to the body while secreting some additional waste products into the tubule.

OTHER FUNCTIONS OF THE KIDNEYS

Additionally, the kidneys help maintain a person's blood pressure. When blood pressure becomes low, the kidneys secrete an enzyme called Renin that increases water absorption and blood volume which raises the blood pressure.

The kidneys also produce and secrete a variety of necessary hormones that have important functions in the body, including:

• Renin, which regulates blood volume and blood pressure.
• Erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.
• Urodilatin, which is a hormone that causes diuresis through increasing renal blood flow. It is secreted in response to increased mean arterial pressure and increased blood volume from the cells of the distal tubule and collecting duct. It is important in oliguric patients (such as those with acute renal failure and chronic renal failure) as it lowers serum creatinine and increases urine output.
• Vitamin D (calcitriol or 1,25 dihydroxy-vitamin D), which regulates absorption of calcium and phosphorus from foods, promoting formation of strong bone.

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KIDNEY STONES OVERVIEW

Kidney stones are considered one of the most painful of the urologic disorders. They have beset humans for centuries. Scientists have found evidence of kidney stones in a 7,000-year-old Egyptian mummy. Unfortunately, kidney stones are one of the most common disorders of the urinary tract. Each year, people make almost 3 million visits to health care providers and more than half a million people go to emergency rooms for kidney stone problems. An estimated 10 percent of Americans develop kidney stones at some point in their lives. They are most common in white men between the ages of 30 and 50 years of age, however they can occur as early as the 20s. Kidney stones are rare in children and in African-Americans. They are more prevalent in the south-eastern United States (known to health care providers as the "Stone Belt") than in other parts of the country. The reason for this is not known, but it is theorized that the hot climate, which promotes dehydration, and/or regional dietary habits may be to blame. Men are more likely than women to suffer from this ailment, and adult males have a 50 percent rate of recurrence within 8 years of the first episode.

Most kidney stones pass out of the body without any intervention by a health care provider. Stones that cause lasting symptoms or other complications may be treated by various techniques, most of which do not involve major surgery. Also, research advances have led to a better understanding of the many factors that promote stone formation and thus better treatments for preventing stones.



KIDNEY STONE DESCRIPTION

The formation of stones in the kidneys or urinary tract is not an uncommon disorder. Kidney stones, medically termed renal calculi, are accumulations of mineral salts that can lodge anywhere along the course of the urinary tract. Human urine is often saturated to the limit with uric acid, phosphates and calcium oxalate. Normally, due to the secretion of various protective compounds and natural mechanisms that control the pH of urine, these substances remain suspended in solution.

Normally, urine contains chemicals that prevent or inhibit the crystals from forming. These inhibitors do not seem to work for everyone, however, so some people form stones. If the protective compounds are overwhelmed or immunity becomes depressed, the substances may crystallize and the crystals may begin to clump together, eventually forming stones, Stones can range in size from microscopic specks to the size of a fingertip. If the crystals remain tiny enough, they will travel through the urinary tract and pass out of the body in the urine without being noticed. Sometimes the stones become large enough to restrict urinary flow. These stones may be jagged or smooth.



TYPES OF KIDNEY STONES

There are 4 basic kinds of kidney stones:

• Calcium stones (composed of calcium oxalate).
• Uric acid stones.
• Struvite stones (composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate).
• Cystine stone.

The stones are formed from the chemicals usually found in the urine such as uric acid, phosphorus, calcium, and oxalic acid. They may vary in consistency from grit, sand, and gravel-like obstructions the size of a bird's egg. Stones may form and grow because the concentration of a particular substance in the urine exceeds its solubility. Most kidney stones are composed either of calcium oxalate or phosphate, the latter being most common in the presence of infection. Kidney stones may contain various combinations of chemicals.

The most common type of stone contains calcium in combination with either oxalate or phosphate. These chemicals are part of a person's normal diet and make up important parts of the body, such as bones and muscles. About 90 percent of all stones contain calcium as the chief constituent. About 80 percent of all stones are calcium oxalate stones. More than half of these are mixtures of calcium, ammonium and magnesium, phosphates and carbonates, while the remainder contain oxalate.

A less common type of stone is caused by infection in the urinary tract. This type of stone is called a struvite or infection stone. Another type of stone, uric acid stones, are a bit less common, and cystine stones are rare.



URINARY TRACT STONE DISEASE TERMS

The condition of having kidney stones is termed nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis.

Urolithiasis is the medical term used to describe stones occurring in the urinary tract. Other frequently used terms are urinary tract stone disease and nephrolithiasis. Health care providers also use terms that describe the location of the stone in the urinary tract. For example, a ureteral stone (ureterolithiasis) is a kidney stone found in the ureter. To keep things simple, the general term kidney stones is used throughout this web page.

NOTE: Gallstones and kidney stones are not related. They form in different areas of the body. Someone with a gallstone is not necessarily more likely to develop kidney stones.

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PEOPLE AT RISK DEVELOPING KIDNEY STONES

For unknown reasons, the number of people in the United States with kidney stones has been increasing over the past 30 years. In the late 1970s, less than 4 percent of the population had stone-forming disease. By the early 1990s, the portion of the population with the disease had increased to more than 5 percent. Caucasians are more prone to develop kidney stones than African Americans. Stones occur more frequently in men. The prevalence of kidney stones rises dramatically as men enter their 40s and continues to rise into their 70s. For women, the prevalence of kidney stones peaks in their 50s. Once a person gets more than one stone, other stones are likely to develop. See "Causes" below for more information.

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CAUSES OF KIDNEY STONES

Health care providers do not always know what causes a stone to form. While certain foods may promote stone formation in people who are susceptible, scientists do not believe that eating any specific food causes stones to form in people who are not susceptible.

Men are especially likely to develop kidney stones, and whites are more often affected than blacks. The prevalence of kidney stones begins to rise when men reach their 40s, and it continues to climb into their 70s. People who have already had more than one kidney stone are prone to develop more stones. A family history of kidney stones is also a risk factor for the development of kidney stones.

Kidney stones are 10 times as common now as they were at the start of the 20th century. While the consumption of foods high in oxalic acid (mostly eggs, fish, and certain vegetables) has declined markedly in this country in that time, the amount of animal fats and protein in the average American's diet has increased significantly. The ratio of plant to animal protein in the typical diet at the beginning of the 20th century was roughly 1 to 1. This ratio has since changed to 1 to 2. The consumption of animal protein is strongly associated with oxalate absorption.

Other risk factors for kidney stones include low urine volume, low bodily pH, heredity, living in a tropical climate, and reduced production of natural urinary tract inhibitors of crystal formation.

DISORDERS RELATED TO KIDNEY STONE FORMATION

A person with a family history of kidney stones may be more likely to develop stones. Urinary tract infections, kidney disorders such as cystic kidney diseases, and certain metabolic disorders such as hyperparathyroidism are also linked to stone formation.

More than 70 percent of people with a rare hereditary disease called renal tubular acidosis develop kidney stones.

Cystinuria and hyperoxaluria are two other rare, inherited metabolic disorders that often cause kidney stones. In cystinuria, too much of the amino acid cystine, which does not dissolve in urine, is voided, leading to the formation of stones made of cystine. In patients with hyperoxaluria, the body produces too much oxalate, a salt. When the urine contains more oxalate than can be dissolved, the crystals settle out and form stones.

Hypercalciuria (high calcium in the urine) is an inherited condition, and it may be the cause of stones in more than half of patients. Calcium is absorbed from food in excess and is lost (excreted) into the urine. This high level of calcium in the urine causes crystals of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate to form calcium phosphate or calcium oxalate stones in the kidneys or elsewhere in the urinary tract.

Hyperuricosuria, which is a disorder of uric acid metabolism; gout; excess intake of vitamin D; urinary tract infections; and blockage of the urinary tract. Certain diuretics, commonly called water pills, and calcium-based antacids may increase the risk of forming kidney stones by increasing the amount of calcium in the urine.

Calcium oxalate stones may also form in people who have chronic inflammation of the bowel or who have had an intestinal bypass operation, or ostomy surgery. As mentioned earlier, struvite stones can form in people who have had a urinary tract infection. People who take the protease inhibitor indinavir, a medicine used to treat HIV infection, may also be at increased risk of developing kidney stones.

Gout results in an increased amount of uric acid in the urine and can lead to the formation of uric acid stones.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Gout

Chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension) are also associated with an increased risk of developing kidney stones.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hypertension

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Diabetes

People with inflammatory bowel disease or who have had an intestinal bypass or ostomy surgery are also more likely to develop kidney stones.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Celiac Disease

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Crohn's Disease

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Diverticulitis

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Ulcerative Colitis

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Kidney stones form when there is a decrease in urine volume or an excess of stone-forming substances in the urine. The most common type of kidney stone contains calcium in combination with either oxalate or phosphate. Other chemical compounds that can form stones in the urinary tract include uric acid and the amino acid cystine.

Dehydration through reduced fluid intake or strenuous exercise without adequate fluid replacement increases the risk of kidney stones. Obstruction to the flow of urine can also lead to stone formation. Kidney stones can also result from infection in the urinary tract; these are known as struvite or infection stones.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Dehydration

Some medications also raise the risk of kidney stones. These medications include some diuretics, calcium-containing antacids, and the protease inhibitor Crixivan (indinavir), a drug used to treat HIV infection.

CALCIUM OXALATE STONES

About 80 percent of all stones are calcium oxalate stones. High blood calcium levels lead to hypercalciuria. Hypercalciuria is the excessive absorption of calcium from the intestine. This increases the level of calcium in the urine. This excess calcium eventually forms a stone. High blood calcium levels can also result from malfunctioning parathyroid glands (tiny glands in the neck that regulate blood calcium levels), vitamin D intoxication, and multiple myeloma. The consumption of refined carbohydrates, especially sugar, can precipitate kidney stones as well, because the sugar stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, which in turn causes extra calcium to be excreted in the urine. Mild chronic or recurrent dehydration can also be a factor in kidney stones; it concentrates the urine, increasing the likelihood of stone formation.

Calcium stones often run in families because the tendency to absorb too much calcium is hereditary. Also, people with a family history of kidney stones, there seems to be a stronger than normal correlation between the intake of either vitamin C or oxalic acid and the urinary excretion of oxalate. Apparently, such individuals either absorb more oxalate precursors. People with Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome, or who eat diets high in oxalic acid, may have an increased risk of kidney stones as well, as these factors can cause the excretion of oxalate in the urine to increase.

People prone to forming calcium oxalate stones may be asked by their health care provider to limit or avoid certain foods if their urine contains an excess of oxalate.

HIGH OXALATE FOODS Higher to Lower Avoid these foods.	Rhubarb Spinach Beets Swiss Chard Wheat Germ Soybean Crackers Peanuts Okra Chocolate Black Indian Tea Sweet Potatoes
MEDIUM-OXALATE FOODS Higher to Lower Foods that have medium amounts of oxalate may be eaten in limited amounts.	Grits Grapes Celery Green Pepper Red Raspberries Fruit Cake Strawberries Marmalade Liver
Source: The Oxalosis and Hyperoxaluria Foundation.

URIC ACID STONES

Uric acid stones form when the volume of urine excreted is too low and/or blood levels of uric acid are abnormally high. The latter condition is commonly associated with symptoms of gout.

STRUVITE STONES

Unlike other types of kidney stones, struvite stones are unrelated to metabolism. These stones are caused by infection. Women often get them with recurrent urinary tract infections.

CYSTINE STONES

Cystine stones are caused by a condition called cystinuria, a rare congenital defect that can cause stones composed of the amino acid cystine to form in the kidney and bladder.

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KIDNEY STONE SYMPTOMS

KIDNEY STONE SYMPTOM SUMMARY

• Pain radiating from the upper back to the lower abdomen and groin.
• Profuse sweating.
• Frequent urination.
• Pus and blood in the urine.
• Odorous or cloudy urine.
• Absence of urine formation.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Sometimes chills and fever (possible infection).

In milder cases, the symptoms may mimic a bad case of stomach flu or other gastrointestinal ailment.

Kidney stones often do not cause any symptoms (known as "silent" stones). Usually, the first symptom people who have kidney stones experience is extreme, excruciating, cramping pain, which begins suddenly when a stone moves in the urinary tract and blocks the flow of urine. Typically, a person feels a sharp, cramping pain in the back and/or side in the area of the kidney or in the lower abdomen. Changes in body position do not relieve this pain. The pain typically waxes and wanes in severity, characteristic of colicky pain (the pain is sometimes referred to as renal colic). It may be so severe that it is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Later, pain may spread to the groin.

If the stone is too large to pass easily, pain continues as the muscles in the wall of the narrow ureter try to squeeze the stone into the bladder. As the stone moves and the body tries to push it out, blood may appear in the urine, making the urine pink. Kidney stones also characteristically cause blood in the urine. As the stone moves down the ureter, closer to the bladder, a person may feel the need to urinate more often or feel a burning sensation during urination.

If fever and chills accompany any of these symptoms, an infection may be present. In this case, a person should contact a health care provider immediately.

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KIDNEY STONE PREVENTION

Rather than having to undergo treatment, it is best to avoid kidney stones in the first place. It can be especially helpful to drink more water. (The National Institutes of Health recommend drinking up to 12 full glasses of water a day, if you have already had a kidney stone.) Water helps to flush away the substances that form stones in the kidneys.

Depending on the cause of the kidney stones and an individual's medical history, dietary changes or medications are sometimes recommended to decrease the likelihood of developing further kidney stones. It is particularly helpful, if one has passed a stone, to have it analyzed in a laboratory to determine the precise type of stone so specific prevention measures can be considered.

A person who has had more than one kidney stone may be likely to form another; so, if possible, prevention is important. To help determine their cause, the health care provider will order laboratory tests, including urine and blood tests. The health care provider will also ask about the patient's medical history, occupation, and eating habits. If a stone has been removed, or if the patient has passed a stone and saved it, a stone analysis by the laboratory may help the health care provider in planning treatment.

The health care provider may ask the patient to collect urine for 24 hours after a stone has passed or been removed. For a 24-hour urine collection, the patient is given a large container, which is to be refrigerated between trips to the bathroom. The collection is used to measure urine volume and levels of acidity, calcium, sodium, uric acid, oxalate, citrate, and creatinine - a product of muscle metabolism. The health care provider will use this information to determine the cause of the stone. A second 24-hour urine collection may be needed to determine whether the prescribed treatment is working.

See "Recommendations" further down on this for more suggestions.



DIAGNOSIS

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING

Sometimes "silent" kidney stones (those that do not cause symptoms) are found on x-rays taken during a general health exam. If the stones are small, they will often pass out of the body unnoticed. Often, kidney stones are found on an x-ray or during an ultrasound taken of someone who complains of blood in the urine or sudden pain. These diagnostic images give the health care provider valuable information about the stone's size and location. Blood and urine tests help detect any abnormal substance that might promote stone formation.

The health care provider may decide to scan the urinary system using a special test called a computerized tomography (CT) scan or an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). The results of all these tests help determine the proper treatment.

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CONVENTIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR KIDNEY STONES

INCREASED FLUID INTAKE

Most kidney stones can pass through the urinary system with plenty of water (2 to 3 quarts a day) to help move the stone along. Often, the patient can stay home during this process, drinking fluids and taking pain medication as needed for symptom relief. Most kidney stones eventually pass through the urinary tract on their own within 48 hours, with ample fluid intake.

There are several factors which influence the ability to pass a stone. These include the size of the person, prior stone passage, prostate enlargement, pregnancy, and the size of the stone. A 4 mm stone has an 80 percent chance of passage while a 5 mm stone has a 20 percent chance. Stones larger than 9-10 mm rarely pass on their own and usually require further medical treatment.

The health care provider usually asks the patient to save the passed stone(s) for testing. It can be caught in a cup or a fine mesh tea strainer used only for this purpose.

MEDICATIONS

Some medications have been used to increase the passage rates of kidney stones. These include calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine and alpha blockers such as tamsulosin. These drugs may be prescribed some people who have stones that do not rapidly pass through the urinary tract.

A health care provider may prescribe certain medications to help prevent calcium and uric acid stones. These medicines control the amount of acid or alkali in the urine, key factors in crystal formation. The medicine allopurinol may also be useful in some cases of hyperuricosuria.

Health care providers usually try to control hypercalciuria, and thus prevent calcium stones, by prescribing certain diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide. These medicines decrease the amount of calcium released by the kidneys into the urine by favoring calcium retention in bone. They work best when sodium intake is low.

Rarely, patients with hypercalciuria are given the medicine sodium cellulose phosphate, which binds calcium in the intestines and prevents it from leaking into the urine.

If cystine stones cannot be controlled by drinking more fluids, a health care provider may prescribe medicines such as Thiola and Cuprimine, which help reduce the amount of cystine in the urine.

For struvite stones that have been totally removed, the first line of prevention is to keep the urine free of bacteria that can cause infection. A patient's urine will be tested regularly to ensure no bacteria are present. If struvite stones cannot be removed, a health care provider may prescribe a medicine called acetohydroxamic acid (AHA). AHA is used with long-term antibiotic medicines to prevent the infection that leads to stone growth.

MEDICAL PROCEDURES - EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK WAVE LITHOTRIPSY

For kidney stones which do not pass on their own, a procedure called lithotripsy is often used. In this procedure, shock waves are used to break up a large stone into smaller pieces that can then pass through the urinary system.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the most frequently used procedure for the treatment of kidney stones. In ESWL, shock waves that are created outside the body travel through the skin and body tissues until they hit the denser stones. The stones break down into small particles and are easily passed through the urinary tract in the urine.

Several types of ESWL devices exist. Most devices use either x-rays or ultrasound to help the surgeon pinpoint the stone during treatment. For most types of ESWL procedures, anesthesia is needed.

In many cases, ESWL may be done on an outpatient basis. Recovery time is relatively short, and most people can resume normal activities in a few days.

Complications may occur with ESWL. Some patients have blood in their urine for a few days after treatment. Bruising and minor discomfort in the back or abdomen from the shock waves can occur. To reduce the risk of complications, health care providers usually tell patients to avoid taking aspirin and other medicines that affect blood clotting for several weeks before treatment.

Sometimes, the shattered stone particles cause minor blockage as they pass through the urinary tract and cause discomfort. In some cases, the doctor will insert a small tube called a stent through the bladder into the ureter to help the fragments pass. Sometimes the stone is not completely shattered with one treatment, and additional treatments may be needed.

As with any interventional, surgical procedure, potential risks and complications should be discussed with the health care provider before making a treatment decision.

MEDICAL PROCEDURES - SURGERY TREATMENT

Fortunately, surgery is not usually necessary. However, situations arise such as if the size of the stone is too large to pass, surgery may be necessary. Surgical techniques have also been developed to remove kidney stones. This may be done through a small incision in the skin (percutaneous nephrolithotomy) or through an instrument known as an ureteroscope passed through the urethra and bladder up into the ureter.

People with hyperparathyroidism sometimes develop calcium stones. Treatment in these cases is usually surgery to remove the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck. In most cases, only one of the glands is enlarged. Removing the glands cures the patient's problem with hyperparathyroidism and kidney stones.

Surgery may be needed to remove a kidney stone if it:

• Does not pass after a reasonable period of time and causes constant pain.
• Is too large to pass on its own or is caught in a difficult place.
• Blocks the flow of urine.
• Causes an ongoing urinary tract infection.
• Damages kidney tissue or causes constant bleeding.
• Has grown larger, as seen on follow-up x rays.

Until 20 years ago, open surgery was necessary to remove a stone. The surgery required a recovery time of 4 to 6 weeks. Today, treatment for these stones is greatly improved, and many options do not require major open surgery and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Sometimes a procedure called percutaneous nephrolithotomy is recommended to remove a stone. This treatment is often used when the stone is quite large or in a location that does not allow effective use of ESWL. In this procedure, the surgeon makes a tiny incision in the back and creates a tunnel directly into the kidney. Using an instrument called a nephroscope, the surgeon locates and removes the stone. For large stones, some type of energy probe - ultrasonic or electrohydraulic - may be needed to break the stone into small pieces. Often, patients stay in the hospital for several days and may have a small tube called a nephrostomy tube left in the kidney during the healing process. One advantage of percutaneous nephrolithotomy is that the surgeon can remove some of the stone fragments directly instead of relying solely on their natural passage from the kidney.

Ureteroscopic Stone Removal

Although some stones in the ureters can be treated with ESWL, ureteroscopy may be needed for mid- and lower-ureter stones. No incision is made in this procedure. Instead, the surgeon passes a small fiberoptic instrument called a ureteroscope through the urethra and bladder into the ureter. The surgeon then locates the stone and either removes it with a cage-like device or shatters it with a special instrument that produces a form of shock wave. A small tube or stent may be left in the ureter for a few days to help urine flow. Before fiber optics made ureteroscopy possible, health care provider used a similar "blind basket" extraction method. But this technique is rarely used now because of the higher risks of damage to the ureters.

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HOLISTIC, DIETARY, & LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

RECOMMENDATIONS

By far the single most important and simple lifestyle change measure to prevent stones and maintain good kidney function is to drink more liquids. Quality water is best - at least ten 8-ounce glasses daily. Someone who tends to form stones should try to drink enough liquids throughout the day to produce at least 2 quarts of urine in every 24-hour period. To prevent cystine stones, a person should drink enough water each day to dilute the concentration of cystine that escapes into the urine, which may be difficult. More than a gallon of water may be needed every 24 hours, and a third of that must be drunk during the night. Water dilutes urine and helps prevent concentrations of the minerals and salts that form stones. Chronic dehydration is a major factor in kidney stone disease in 15 to 20 percent of people. Also drink unsweetened cranberry juice to help acidify the urine (unless you are prone to uric acid stones). Drinking the juice of a fresh lemon in a glass of warm water first thing each morning can help prevent stones from forming. Lemon juice contains nearly five times the concentration of citric acid - a natural citrate source - than orange juice. One study showed people who consumed lemonade on a daily basis actually reduced stone recurrence.

For pain relief, drink the juice of half a fresh lemon in 8 ounces of water every half hour until the pain subsides. You can alternate between lemon juice and fresh apple juice.

Try drinking a large amount of liquid (preferably pure water), allow 20 minutes for digestion, and then run up and down stairs vigorously. This has been known to allow small, stubborn kidney stones to pass naturally.

Use steam-distilled or quality water for cooking and drinking. Add trace mineral drops to your drinking water.

The formation of stones in the kidneys is the result of defects in the general metabolism. They usually occur when the urine becomes highly concentrated due to heavy perspiration or insufficient intake of fluids. They are aggravated by a sedentary life-style.

Stay active. People who are sedentary tend to accumulate high levels of calcium in the bloodstream. Exercise helps pull calcium from the blood into the bones, where it belongs.

Increase your consumption of foods rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A is beneficial to the urinary tract and helps to discourage the formation of stones. Good sources of vitamin A include alfalfa, apricots, cantaloupe, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and squash.

Reduce your intake of potassium and phosphates. Do not use any salt or potassium chloride, a salt substitute, and avoid carbonated soft drinks and mineral waters since their calcium content can be high.

Other causes are a wrong diet, excess intake of acid-forming foods, white flour and sugar products, meat, black tea, coffee, condiments and spices, rich foods, and overeating contribute to kidney stone formation. Minimize your consumption of animal protein, or eliminate it from your diet altogether. A diet high in animal protein causes the body to excrete calcium, producing excessive amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and uric acid in the kidneys and often resulting in painful kidney stones. Someone who has highly acidic urine may need to eat less meat, fish, and poultry. These foods increase the amount of acid in the urine.

Avoid all refined sugar and products that contain it. Sugar stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, which in turn causes extra calcium to be excreted in the urine.

Avoid foods that contain or lead to the production of oxalic acid, including asparagus, beet greens, beets, blueberries, celery, eggs, fish, grapes, parsley, rhubarb, sorrel, spinach, Swiss chard, and vegetables of the cabbage family. Also avoid alcohol, black tea (green tea is a good substitute), chocolate, cocoa, dried figs, nuts, pepper, and poppy seeds.

Do not omit calcium from your diet since it is important in lowering your risk of developing osteoporosis, which is a much or common problem than kidney stones, especially for women. Getting extra magnesium can reduce the risk of kidney stones by increasing the solubility of calcium oxalate. Seafood, brown rice, tofu, and soybeans are naturally high in magnesium. Barley, bran, corn, buckwheat, rye, oats, potatoes and bananas are rich in magnesium.

In the past, people who form calcium stones were told to avoid dairy products and other foods with high calcium content. A study at Harvard University, have found that consuming dairy products may actually lower the risk of developing kidney stones, instead of increasing the risk, as was previously thought. Recent studies have shown that foods high in calcium, including dairy products, such as milk and cheese, may help prevent calcium stones. They also found that Taking calcium in pill form (calcium supplements), however, may increase the risk slightly of developing stones unless they are taken with meals. Patients may be told to avoid food with added vitamin D and certain types of antacids that have a calcium base. Lack of vitamin A and an excessive intake of vitamin D may also lead to formation of stones.

If you have a family history of kidney stones and you must take calcium supplements, take the calcium supplements with meals. When you consume calcium-rich foods with oxalates, they bind together and are expelled in the stool, lessening your risk of kidney stones. Calcium supplement should be avoided only by those with a personal history of kidney stones.

If you have a history of cystine stones, avoid the amino acid L-cystine. If you must take a supplement containing L-cystine, take at least 3 times as much vitamin C at the same time. Otherwise, cystine can crystallize in the kidneys and form large stones that fill the interior of the kidney.

Do not eat large meals late at night.

If you must eat animal protein, reduce animal protein in the diet to 3 ounces at lunch and 3 ounces at dinner.

Eat lots of the right types of fruits and vegetables.

Determine the type of stone formation you suffer from (hypercalciuria, hyperoxaluria, or hyperuricosuria) by means of a chemical analysis.

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CONSIDERATIONS

If you do not pass the lodged stone, see your health care provider. He or she may order a urine test and an x-ray for formal diagnosis and proper treatment.

There are some conflicting recommendations by health care professionals. According to some, drinking coffee, tea, and wine may lower the risk of kidney stones, while grapefruit juice may increase it.

In Japan, the incidence of kidney stones has been rising steadily since the middle of this century, when dietary changes typical of an industrialized nation began to occur. People in Japan who develop kidney stones consume far more proteins, refined carbohydrates, fats, and oils than did their forebears.

Most kidney stones eventually pass by themselves. Depending on the type and size of the stone, your health care provider may recommend the use of electroshock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break up the stones, ureterscope calculus removal, or tunnel surgery (in which the surgeon creates a small tunnel through the skin and inserts an instrument to remove the stone), or the use of a laser or other tiny device that is threaded up the urinary tract to break up the stone.

Once kidney stones have formed and have been treated, the risk of recurrence increases. Once a person has formed a stone, there is a 20 to 50 percent chance that he or she will form another in the next ten years. Once a second incidence has occurred, the risk increases markedly.

Prescription medications containing sodium cellulose phosphate are effective on calcium-based stones. Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) is effective on stones not of calcium origin. Allopurinol (Lopurin, Zyloprim) and hydrochlorothiazide (Esidrix, HydroDiurul, and others) are other medications that may help to prevent the occurrence of stones.

Taking up to 100 mg of zinc daily can help inhibit the formation of crystals that later accumulate into stones. Caution: While the recommended amount of zinc helps enhance immune function, anything over 100 mg per day tends to depress immunity.

To control calcium stones, the pH of the body should be raised, while to control uric acid stones, bodily pH should be lowered. See the following links about acid and alkaline imbalance for more information.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Acidosis

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Alkalosis

Diet alone cannot remove kidney stones, but it can be very effective at preventing them. Kidney stones are primarily an affliction of well-fed societies in which people consume large quantities of animal protein. A vegetarian diet can be of great benefit to anyone prone to kidney stones. A strict vegan diet that contains no animal proteins whatsoever, is almost entirely devoid of processed foods, and is low in sodium and high in fiber and water is generally considered conducive to kidney stone prevention.

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index

Measures used to treat kidney stones and to prevent recurrences depend on the nature of the stone, so it is important to take any stone you pass to your health care provider for analysis.

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HOME REMEDIES FOR KIDNEY STONES

There are no guarantees that these remedies will work for you. What works for one person may not work for another. Sometimes several remedies may need to be combined or tried before finding one that works for you. These remedies given below are some that have come from people who suffer from kidney stones. Some of the suggestions have already been stated above, but they will be repeated here as an emphasis from those who have used them to help relieve or prevent their kidney stones.

START WITH YOUR FLUID INTAKE

To begin, increase your fluid intake. Eight to ten 8 ounce glasses of water a day is recommended, but keep in mind that is only an average. Your weight may require a greater liquid intake, as can heat or exertion that makes you sweat. An interesting study showed that Israeli soldiers in the desert, who were prone to kidney stones, decreased crystal formation in direct proportion to their increase of fluids. You should drink enough liquids to produce two to three quarts of urine each day.

DIETARY RECOMMENDATIONS

Eat a low-protein diet, while increasing the amount of vegetables and fiber. Limit your protein to 3 ounces at both lunch and dinner. Protein increases the levels of uric acid and calcium in the urine, both of which can form stones. The incidence of kidney stones is highest in countries where people eat diets high in animal protein. Vegetarians rarely have kidney stones. Do not eat large meals late at night, as they tend to promote crystal-forming concentrations. Also, avoid sugar and salt, caffeine and alcohol, all of which increase the amount of calcium in the urine.

Magnesium has been found to be very important in the prevention of stone formation. Eat foods rich in magnesium, such as barley, bran, corn, buckwheat, rye, oats, brown rice, potatoes, and bananas.

Additional diet modifications and supplements depend on your specific kidney stone, as determined by chemical analysis. Here are the common conditions and the modifications you should make connected with them:

HYPERCALCIURIA occurs when there is too much calcium in the urine but a normal amount in the blood. You may be ingesting too much calcium, either through supplements (for example, Tums or other antacids), or through stomach acid medications, or even your drinking water. But calcium is very important, so you can't restrict it entirely. Reduce your calcium intake to the minimum required amount, which is about 600 to 1,000 mg daily. Remember that mineral waters can contain calcium. The bubbles in naturally carbonated water come from dissolved limestone high in calcium. It is best to avoid mineral or naturally carbonated waters entirely if you are prone to kidney stones. As sodium can contribute to excess calcium excretion, it's best to follow a low-salt diet. Avoid coffee, which increases the amount of calcium in the urine. Add rice bran to your diet. Rice bran contains phytin, which binds to calcium in the intestine and reduces urinary calcium in the process. A study in Japan showed that patients given 10 grams of rice bran twice a day after meals had a decided decline in the formation of kidney stones.

HYPEROXALURIA occurs when there is too much oxalate in the urine. Avoid foods high in oxalate, which include tea, chocolate, spinach, beans, instant coffee, peanuts, parsley, and rhubarb. Take a supplement of 50-100 mg Vitamin B-6 and 800 mg of magnesium daily. These two nutrients have been found to prevent stones from recurring.

HYPERURICOSURIA occurs when there is too much uric acid in the urine. This condition is associated with too much protein in the diet. In addition to limiting your protein, take a supplement of potassium of 100 mg daily. Also avoid foods high in uric acid.

KIDNEY CLEANSE NEEDED FIRST

Before using a simple oil flush for stones, you first must soften with any numerous kidney cleanses (i.e., a week of apple juice). Then you must cleanse with Epsom salts and then do the lemon and olive oil routine. It may take several tries but it works. You may get gravel because the cleanse had broken up the stones. Do this regularly as part of a Detox program.

KIDNEY CLEANSE PROGRAM

Day 1

6 Limes or lemons
4 Liters quality water (16 cups)
Alfalfa tablets


Mix limes/lemons with water and drink throughout the day. Every waking hour take 2 alfalfa tablets.

Days 2 & 3

Throughout the day drink the same amount of water with no limes/lemons and the same amount of alfalfa tablets. Avoid all caffeine products including chocolate during this cleanse. Do not do a liver cleanse without cleansing kidneys first. This can aggravate a kidney stone problem.

LEMON JUICE AND OLIVE OIL

For calcium stones, use 3 ounces fresh lemon and 3 ounces of extra virgin olive oil and follow it with a quick 12 ounces of water every hour. The pain may subside in about 20 minutes and the stone may move down within a few hours. You may experience nausea but stay with it.

Mix 2 ounces of olive oil and 2 ounces of lemon juice, drink it straight down and follow with a large glass of water at the first sign of stone pain. The stone(s) should pass within 24 hours.

FOODS & JUICES FOR STONE PREVENTION AND ELIMINATION

Kidney beans, also known as dried French beans or Rajmah, are regarded as a very effective home remedy for kidney problems, including kidney stones. The method prescribed to prepare the medicine is to remove the beans from inside the pods, then slice the pods and put about sixty grams in four liters of hot water, boiling them slowly for six hours. This liquid should be strained through fine muslin and then allowed to cool for about eight hours. Thereafter the fluid should be poured through another piece of muslin without stirring. A glass of this decoction should be given to the patient every two hours throughout the day for one day and, thereafter, it may be taken several times a week. This decoction would not work if it was more than twenty-four hours old. The pods could be kept for longer periods but once they were boiled, the therapeutic factor would disappear after one day.

Basil has a strengthening effect on the kidneys. In case of kidney stones, one teaspoon each of basil juice and honey should be taken daily for six months. It has been found that stones can be expelled from the urinary tract by this treatment.

Celery is a valuable food for those who are prone to getting stones in the kidneys or gall-bladder. Its regular intake prevents future stone formation.

Apples are useful in kidney stones. In countries where the natural unsweetened cider is a common beverage, cases of stones or calculus are practically absent. The ripe fresh fruit is, however, more valuable.

Grapes have an exceptional diuretic value on account of their high contents of water and potassium salt. The value of this fruit in kidney troubles is enhanced by its low albumin and sodium chloride content. It is an excellent cure for kidney stones.

The seeds of both sour and sweet pomegranates are useful medicine for kidney stones. A tablespoon of the seeds, ground into a fine paste, can be given along with a cup of horsegram (kulthi or kuleeth) soup to dissolve gravel in kidneys. Two tablespoons of horsegram should be used for preparing the cup of soup.

Kuleeth/Kulthi/Horsegram Soup Recipe

Kuleeth/Kulthi or Horsegram is a brown flat legume used in Indian cooking. Kuleeth is cooked with lots of water, the liquid is separated and used to make saaru. The cooked Kuleeth grains is used to make Kuleeth Usli, a side dish that can be eaten along with chapathi or rice or just like a snack.

1 cup kuleeth
6-7 cloves garlic
2 green chillies
2 dry red chillies

Cook Kuleeth in a pressure cooker for about 5 whistles. Drain the liquid from the Kuleeth to a sauce pan. Add slit green chillies and salt and bring it to a boil. Keep boiling till the green chillies impart hotness into the saaru. For the seasoning, roast garlic in a tsp of oil, fry broken red chillies and add to the saaru. Recipe from Foods of India.

Watermelon contains the highest concentration of water amongst all fruits. It is also rich in potassium salts. It is one of the safest and best diuretics which can be used with beneficial result in kidney stones.

Research has shown the remarkable therapeutic success of vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) in the treatment of kidney Stones. A daily therapeutic dose of 100 to 150 mg of vitamin B-6, preferably, combined with other B complex vitamins, should be continued for several months for getting a permanent cure. The B Vitamins work best when taken together.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Apple cider vinegar is a remedy used dissolving calcification of kidney stones. Vinegar is often used to remove hard water deposits from coffee pots. Use 2 tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar taken with equal amounts water through out the day (at least 3 times daily) can help the stones pass. Honey can be added if it helps.

Drinking a few cups of apple cider vinegar in Red Raspberry Leaf tea can help with pain of kidney stones and is also helpful in clearing up bladder infections.

VEGETARIAN DIET

A good vegetarian diet that includes nutrients with low protein is also a great way to prevent and dissolve kidney stones.

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Vegetarian Diet Nutrition Guide

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index

BEER REMEDY FOR KIDNEY STONES

One beer a week may help break down kidney stones and has been recommended by some health care providers and kidney stone sufferers.

CHANCA PIEDRA

Chanca Piedra extract has been recommended for large stones. Stones can be resolved by using 60 drops of chanca piedra in a glass of water twice a day until the tincture was used up. Also, stay away from Coca-Cola. Chanca Piedra is carried in some health food stores, but if you cannot find it there, it's online. It is available from Amazon.com.

For dissolving kidney stones, use Stone Breaker (chanca piedra) and put 1 dropperful in 1 cup of distilled water. Taking 5 tablets daily of Planetary Herbals "Stone Free". For ulcers, hiatal hernia or acid reflux take 100% Aloe Vera, an ounce 3 times daily.



CHECK YOUR PARATHYROID FUNCTION

If you have recurring Kidney stones, consult with a health care provider for hyperparathyroid problems. You have four to six small rice size glands that sit close to the thyroid. These glands regulate calcium in the blood. Primary hyperparathyroid is caused by a tumor. Secondary hyperparathyroid is caused by a lack of vitamin D. Ask your health care provider to check your PTH (parathyroid hormone) and blood calcium. Sometimes you have to have a tumor removed and sometimes all you need is extra vitamin D.

CORN SILK BREW

Corn silk tea is recommended for use as diuretic for all urinary problems.

OXALIC ACID & BODY pH

If the body was properly alkaline, the oxalic acid would not enter the bloodstream as the intestines would neutralize the oxalic acid and get neutralized then and there and goes out the bowels. If the oxalic acid goes into the blood stream without sufficient bicarbonate, the oxalic acid will react with the calcium in the blood plasma and this tends to accumulate in the kidney forming kidney stones. Most herbs are generally effective via its ability to cause diuretic, but in some cases are not alkaline enough to prevent oxalic acid form forming. Eating foods high in oxalic acid may also worsen the condition, such as oxalic rich foods found in peanuts, beans, chocolate, for instance.

Vitamin C sodium ascorbate tends to neutralize the oxalic acid, and so does vitamin B complex. Baking soda is still the most important element so that it will prevent the body form absorbing the oxalic acid by forming sodium oxalate, which are generally less reactive to the calcium to form calcium oxalate. Most people who have kidney stones, do not generally eat fruits and citric acid contents in the fruits generally will prevent oxalic acid from forming into calcium oxalate also.

Calcium oxalate does not dissolve in acid urine, but might be helpful in prevention through more alkaline urine. However, once formed, they are impossible to dissolve. This is not common in humans, but dogs are very susceptible. Oxalates are common in spinach and rhubarb. However, diets rich in oxalates are much to be desired in case of viral diseases or cancer as oxalic acid have anticancer properties. There is a possibility of dissolving calcium oxalate. This one exception could be disodium EDTA and sodium bicarbonate (which is alkaline). In practice, if calcium oxalate is formed, using Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the most common practice used by health care provider for breaking the stones with the use of shockwave.

CREAM OF TARTAR, APPLE CIDER VINEGAR AND BEER

For calcium stones, a mixture of about 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar with water and honey to taste can be taken with 2 bottles of water. Take apple cider vinegar during the day and then at night after dinner drink a beer with some watermelon for flushing out the stone. Fresh lemon Juice may be included in with the water.

DIAGNOSING A VITAMIN C DEFICIENCY

Kidney stone and gallstone may be related if we are talking about vitamin C deficiency. There is a much easier way of testing what kinds of stones you have at your home and deciding which remedies will be best for you. The methodology is quite primitive, and it is just an intellectual guess. However, if you want to try it out here it is:

This can easily be done by collecting a cup of urine sample and, quite obviously, when you do have stones or developing them there is a good chance it will be cloudy. Separate them in different cups and try adding vitamin C to the first cup. If your urine clears up in first cup then you know it is calcium phosphate. There is an imbalance of calcium & phosphate. This can be corrected by adding magnesium and boron to the diet and determine whether your diet consists of more or less calcium. In practice this is from excess dietary phosphorous which comes from meats and soft drinks.

In the second cup, you can reserve this and test for urine conductivity and sugar in your urine using a Brix hydrometer which measures specific gravity (often used in wine-making). An alternative to obtaining a hydrometer is to use Clinitest Reagent Tablets commonly used by diabetics for glucose analysis in the urine. Testing the amount of glucose in urine is an indirect way to monitor blood sugar levels. Glucose reagent test strips (dip sticks) can also be used to test for glucose in the urine. See Comparison of 3 Methods To Assess Urine Specific Gravity and Urine Testing - American Diabetes Association about the accuracy of urine glucose testing methods.

For the second cup which you test for sugar and conductivity. It means the possibility of stones to form from excess sugar if your sugar levels are much higher than normal. If the conductivity is excessive, it means your stones will form from lack of drinking water. Of course, testing your pH for your urine and if it is too low (below 6) or too high (above 7.0) then you know that stones exists because of pH imbalances. These are just rough guesses. Acid urine might mean you are taking too much meat. Alkaline urine means you are taking too much vegetables. A cloudy urine could also mean vitamin deficiency. If you take a multivitamin day one and day two you have clearer urine, then stones are avoided.

If it does not clear up and you take vitamin B complex and your urine clears up it means you have vitamin B deficiency. On the other hand if you have gout, then it is obvious you have uric acid problem which can be alleviated by taking small amounts of lithium in water about 2-5 mg/day to dissolve that. Sodium bicarbonate might help but it is obvious that taking more water and eating less meat will be most helpful.

EXERCISE FOR KIDNEY STONE REMOVAL
(From www.jumpandbump.com)

PROCEDURE FOR THE JUMP METHOD

Before deciding to follow this procedure on your next stone, check with your health care provider. If you both decide that this "exercise" is appropriate for you, then immediately make a practice dry run through the procedure to make sure that there are no surprises. Also, memorize all steps and make sure you understand the rationale for each step.

Step One

At the very onset of what you perceive to be ureter stone pain, start drinking lukewarm water. Drink as much as you comfortably can, as quickly as you can, at least one or two pints in the first 10 minutes. If you think you might become nauseous, have a good supply of fast-acting anti-emetic suppositories on hand and place one rectally prior to drinking the lukewarm water. Put on a sturdy pair of shoes. You should know ahead of time what hard surface area, such as carport or patio, you will use. (Your neighbors don't necessarily need to see this "exercise".)

After about 25 - 30 minutes from the time you began to drink the lukewarm water, you are ready for step number two. Remember: you may experience some increase in pain during the 25 - 30 minutes of prep period; however, this should be assurance that you have developed a nice, heavy, liquid tool of urine that will quickly (within 15-25 minutes) move your stone to the bladder. In fact, if you do not experience some small increase in pain, it could mean that a small stone (3-4 mm or less) is involved, creating only partial obstruction. This results in a small, lightweight, liquid tool, in which case it could take as much as 40-50 minutes to move the stone to the bladder.

Step Two

Now you are ready for the "exercise". Jump vertically, at least an inch or two, and land as stiffly as possible, with the ankles, knees, and hips "locked." Immediately repeat the jump,

Wait about 5 minutes and do another pair of jumps.
Wait about 5 minutes and do another pair of jumps.
Wait about 5 minutes and do another pair of jumps.


Continue this pattern for about 45-50 minutes, or until complete cessation of pain, whichever comes first.

After about 5 to 10 minutes from the first pair of jumps, empty the bladder, and continue to do so about every 10 minutes thereafter. There is a good reason for keeping the bladder nearly empty during the procedure. The literature clearly shows that there is less resistance by the bladder to the transfer of urine from the ureter to the bladder when the bladder is empty than when it is full, or partially full. Therefore, we can assume that this might also be true for a stone. It makes sense that a stone will go into the bladder more easily when the bladder is empty, or nearly empty, than when it is full or partially full.

PROCEDURE FOR THE BUMP METHOD

Judging from the limited use of the bump method, it is just as effective as the jump method. All of the basic instructions and suggestions for the jump method apply to the bump method, so study these instructions very carefully. With the bump method, you would obviously not need a sturdy pair of shoes, and the bumping site might be different than the jumping site. An open toilet seat should be ideal for most individuals, as a bumping site. The main reason that the open toilet seat is ideal is that no special arrangements need to be made to protect the genitals from damage, as would be required on a hard flat surface. As for males, since the testicles can be pulled upward by a jock strap (athletic supporter) or by hand, toward the navel, most any hard, flat surface of suitable height is fine. (Your neighbors do not necessarily need to see this "exercise" either!!)

See the www.jumpandbump.com for detailed graphics on how to perform this procedure.

Begin the actual bump procedure by backing up to the toilet seat (or other hard flat surface) as if to sit down, but instead of sitting completely down, stop for a second or two suspended 4 to 6 inches from the seat, then free-fall the 4 to 6 inches to the seat, immediately rise to the previous position, hesitate a second or two, and free fall the 4 to 6 inches again.

Wait about 5 minutes and repeat the pair of bumps.
Wait about 5 minutes and repeat the pair of bumps.
Wait about 5 minutes and repeat the pair of bumps.


Continue this pattern for about 45-50 minutes, or until complete cessation of pain, whichever comes first. And don't forget to empty the bladder about every 10 minutes.

Yogasanas are also helpful. Certain yogasanas such as pavanmuktasana, uttanpadasana, bhujangasana, dhanurasana, and halasana are also beneficial as they activate the kidneys. Consult with a Yoga instructor about methods available for relieving kidney stones.

MORE FOOD & DIET THERAPY

For calcium stones, avoid foods like alcoholic beverages; condiments and pickles; certain vegetables like cucumber, radish. A patient with kidney stones should avoid foods, which irritate the kidneys, to control acidity or alkalinity of the urine. He should also ensure adequate intake of fluids to prevent the urine from becoming concentrated. The foods considered irritants to the kidneys are alcoholic beverages; condiments and pickles; certain vegetables like cucumber, radish, tomato, spinach, rhubarb; those with a strong aroma such as asparagus, onion, beans, cabbage, and cauliflower; meat and gravies; and carbonated waters. Avoid calcium foods (dairy products, leafy green vegetables) oxalate foods chocolate tea rhubarb cooked spinach and asparagus.

For uric acid stones eat less meat, fish and poultry. Intake of calcium and phosphates should be restricted For controlling the formation of calcium phosphate stones, the intake of calcium and phosphates should be restricted. Foods which should be avoided are whole wheat flour, Chickpea, peas, soybean, beet, spinach, cauliflower, turnips, carrots, almonds, and coconuts. When stones are composed of calcium, magnesium phosphates, and carbonates, the diet should be so regulated as to maintain an acidic urine. On the other hand, the urine should be kept alkaline if oxalate and uric acid stones are being formed. In the latter case, fruits and vegetables should be liberally used, and acid-forming foods should be kept to the minimum necessary for satisfactory nutrition. In case of uric stones, foods with a high purine content such as sweet breads, liver, and kidney should be avoided.

Take a low-protein diet and have liberal intake of water The patient should take a low-protein diet, restricting protein to one gram per kilogram of food. A liberal intake of fluid up to three liters or more daily is essential to prevent the precipitation of salt into the form of stones.

Magnesium has been shown to prevent all types of kidney stones. Eating more foods rich in this mineral such as pumpkin seeds, tofu, wheat germ, seafood and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach. See Nutrition Basics - Magnesium for more information about this mineral and its use in your diet.

For those prone to kidney stones, cranberry is the juice of choice, High levels of urinary calcium have been linked to kidney stones and that cranberry juice reduces the amount of calcium in your urine. Two eight-ounce glasses of pure unsweetened cranberry juice daily as a preventive. Of course, if you develop kidney stones, see your health care provider. (See Nutrition Therapy - Juicing for more information about the benefit of making your own fresh juices.

A teaspoon each of basil juice and honey taken daily for 6 months provides relief from this disorder.

Brew Paronychia Argentea leaves in one liter of water for half and hour; drink tea during the day. Treat up to a month. This is a Mediterranean plant known for its diuretic properties. See Herbarium.org for a plant description and therapeutic uses.

Prepare a potion by boiling two figs in a cup of water. Drink this on an empty stomach in the morning for one month.

REFLEXOLOGY, ACUPRESSURE & ACUPUNCTURE

Using reflexology (a type of massage on specific points or areas of the hands and feet), work the kidney, bladder, diaphragm and parathyroid gland reflexes on the hands or feet. Also work the ureter points on your feet. To help you locate these points, consult a hand and foot reflex chart or contact a reflexologist. Acupressure and acupuncture may be beneficial for helping to relieve pain caused by a passing kidney stone. See a qualified practitioner for treatment. See Pain Control Therapy for more information.



WARM ENEMA & HOT BATH FOR PAIN RELIEF

Give a large warm enema followed by a hot bath with a temperature of 100°F (37.8°C), gradually increased to 112°F (44.5°C). During the bath, the head should be wrapped in a cold towel. Hot fomentation applied across the back in the region of the kidneys will relieve the pain.

See Enemas for information about how to give an enema.

Always consult with your health care provider before trying home remedies for kidney stone relief or prevention.

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HERBS

The herbs recommended below are for kidney problems including kidney stones.

Aloe vera juice, taken at levels that do not produce a laxative effect, can be useful in preventing stone formation and in reducing the size of a stone during an active attack.

Herbal Remedies: Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, 99.7% Pure, Certified Organic, Nature's Way, 1 Liter

Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Certified Organic, NOW Foods, 32 oz.

Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Pure Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel & Juice, Wild Berry Flavor, Premium Quality, Nature's Way, 1 Liter

Ginkgo Biloba and Goldenseal, taken in extract form, aid circulation to the kidneys and have anti-inflammatory properties. Caution: Do not take Goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week. Do not use it during pregnancy, and use it with caution if you are allergic to ragweed.

Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Root Tincture (Hydrastis Canadensis), 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Ginkgo Extract, Wild Harvested, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Mountain Rose Herbs: Goldenseal Extract, Wild Harvested, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

A combination of Lobelia tincture (3-4 drops) and Wild Yam tincture (15 drops) in a glass of warm water helps to relax the ureters, relieve pain, and hasten the passing of stones. Sip this mixture throughout the day.

Herbal Remedies: Lobelia Extract Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Wild Yam Extract Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Wild Yam Extract, Wild Harvested, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Buchu tea is good for kidney disorders. Do not boil it, however.

Celery Seed and Parsley seed are natural diuretics. Taken in combination, they are especially helpful if high uric acid levels are present in the blood. Eating large amounts of animal proteins makes one susceptible to high levels of uric acid. These two herbs help keep them in check.

Cranberries contain substances tat acidify the urine, destroy bacterial buildup, and promote healing of the bladder. Drink at least 8 ounces of cranberry juice 3 times daily. Use only pure, unsweetened juice (available at health food stores, such as Trader Joe's). Do not substitute a commercial cranberry juice cocktail product since these contain large amounts of sugar. If natural cranberry juice is not available, cranberry capsules or powder may be used as a substitute.

Herbal Remedies: Cranberry Juice Concentrate, Natural Premium Quality, Kosher, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Cranberry Extract, Standardized, Vegetarian Supplement, 400 mg, 120 VCaps

Dandelion Root extract aids in excretion of the kidney's waste products and is very beneficial for nephritis.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Dandelion Extract, Certified Organic, 1 oz & 4 oz Sizes

Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Tea, NOW Foods, Organic, 30 Tea Bags

Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root, Vegetarian Supplement, Nature's Way, 540 mg, 180 VCaps

Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root (Taraxacum Officinale) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk

The herbs Hydrangea and Uva Ursi are excellent natural diuretics. One of the best first steps in cleaning out the urinary tract and keeping it healthy is to help flush itself. Voiding the urinary tract keeps harmful deposits of calcium and other mineral salts from forming obstructions. Uva Ursi helps to relieve pain and bloating associated with kidney stones and is also slightly germicidal, so if there are any bacteria present, they will likely be destroyed by it.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Hydrangea Extract, Certified Organic, 1 oz & 4 oz Sizes

Mountain Rose Herbs: Uva Ursi Extract, Certified Organic, 1 oz & 4 oz Sizes

Mountain Rose Herbs: Uva Ursi-Horsetail Combination Extract, Certified Organic, 1 oz & 4 oz Sizes

Herbal Remedies: Uva Ursi Leaves (Bearberry), 455 mg, 100 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Uva Ursi Extract, Standardized, 60 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Uva Ursi (Bearberry) Tincture, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Kidney Bladder Supplement Formula With Uva Ursi, Nature's Way, 485 mg, 100 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Hydrangea Tincture, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Hydrangea Root, Nature's Way, 415 mg, 100 Caps

Marshmallow tea helps to cleanse the kidneys and expel kidney stones. Drink 1 quart daily.

Herbal Remedies: Marshmallow Root (Althaea Officinalis) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk

Herbal Remedies: Marshmallow Root Tincture, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Marshmallow Root, Nature's Way, 455 mg, 100 Caps

Cornsilk is a natural diuretic for reducing water retention. Sp-6 Cornsilk Blend from Solaray helps reduce water retention. Kidney-Bladder Formula from Nature's Way is also another good herbal diuretic.

Herbal Remedies: Kidney Bladder Formula Supplement, Nature's Way, 465 mg, 100 Caps

Other herbs that may aid in alleviating kidney stones include:

• Cleavers.
• Gravel Root.
• Horsetail.
• Juniper Berries.
• Pipsissewa.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Cleavers Extract, Wild Harvested, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Mountain Rose Herbs: Gravel Root Extract, Fresh Root, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Mountain Rose Herbs: Horsetail Extract, Wild Crafted, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Mountain Rose Herbs: Juniper Berry Extract, Wild Harvested, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Mountain Rose Herbs: Pipsissewa Extract, Wild Harvested, 1 to 4 oz. Size Choice

Other herbs that are beneficial for kidney problems include:

• Golden Rod tea.
• Juniper Berries.
• Nettle.
• Parsley.
• Red Clover.
• Watermelon seed tea.

Herbal Remedies: Goldenrod Tincture, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Juniper Berries, Nature's Way, 425 mg, 100 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Diuretic Extract Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Nettle Leaf Tincture, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Nettle Leaf Tea, NOW Foods, Organic, 30 Tea Bags

Herbal Remedies: Parsley Root (Petroselinum Sativum) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk

Herbal Remedies: Parsley Detox Drops, 1 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Parsley Leaf Herb, Nature's Way 450 mg, 100 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Red Clover (Trifolium Pratense) Herb Powder, 4 oz. Bulk

Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Herb, Nature's Way 500 mg, 100 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

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NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. For a child between 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended dose. For a child between 6 and 12 years old, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under 6, use 1/4 the recommended dose.

NUTRIENTS
Supplement	Suggested Dosage	Comments
Very Important
Inositol Hexaphosphate (IP-6) With Inositol	As directed on label. As directed on label.	Has been shown in many studies to help prevent and treat kidney disease. Cell Forte Max3 IP-6 & Inositol Plus Maitake & Cat's Claw, Enzymatic Therapy, 120 UltraCaps, Inositol (Vitamin B-8), 100% Natural Pure Crystalline, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps,
And L-Methionine	As directed on label, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg Vitamin B-6 and 100 mg Vitamin C for better absorption.	Reduces the incidence of kidney stones by destroying free radicals associated with stone formation. For improved kidney circulation. See Amino Acids for more information. L-Methionine, 500 mg, Plus Vitamin B-6, 10 mg, NOW Foods, 100 Caps
Magnesium Citrate	500 mg daily.	Reduces calcium absorption and can lower urinary oxalate, a mineral salt common in kidney stones. Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 350 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Magnesium Citrate Powder, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 8 oz., Magnesium Citrate, 100% Pure, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 200 mg, 250 Tabs
Vitamin B Complex	50-100 mg twice daily, with meals.	All B vitamins work best when taken together. Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs, Vitamin B-100 Complex, w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps
Plus Extra Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)	50 mg twice daily.	Taken with magnesium, reduces oxalate. Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), Nature's Way, 100 mg, 100 Caps
Zinc	50-80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements.	An important inhibitor of crystallization, which can lead to stone formation. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or zinc methionate (OptiZinc) for best absorption. Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges, Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges, Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps
Helpful
Multi-Mineral Complex	As directed on label.	To maintain a balance of all nutrients. Super Mineral Juice (Liquid Mineral), Blueberry Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz., Super Mineral Juice (Liquid Mineral), Peach Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz., Encapsulated Multi-Mineral & Mineral Formulas
L-Arginine	500 mg daily.	For kidney disease, aids kidney disorders. L-Arginine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps, L-Arginine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 1000 mg, 120 Caps
Potassium	99 mg daily.	Inhibits crystallization, which can lead to stone formation. Use potassium citrate form. Potassium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 340 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Potassium Chelate, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 99 mg, 100 Caps, Potassium Chloride Powder, NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 8 oz.,
Proteolytic Enzymes	As directed on label. Take between meals.	Aids in normal digestion. Caution: Do not give this supplement to a child under 16 years of age except as directed by a health care provider. MetabolicZyme (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 900 Tabs, Plant Enzymes, NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 120 VCaps, Enzymes, All Complete, 250 mg, 90 Caps
Raw Kidney Glandular	500 mg daily.	Strengthens the kidneys. See Gland Therapy
Vitamin A	25,000 IU daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily.	Important in healing of urinary tract lining, which is often damaged by stones. If you are pregnant, use a natural carotenoid complex such as betatene in place of vitamin A. Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels,
Plus Natural Beta-Carotene In With Carotenoid Complex	10,000 IU daily.	Powerful antioxidants, free radical scavengers, and immune enhancers (strengthens the immune response). Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels, Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels
Vitamin C With Bioflavonoids	3,000-6,000 mg daily, in divided doses.	Acidifies the urine. Most stones will not form in acidic urine. Boosts the immune function, and aids in healing. Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs, Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps, The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 Tabs
Vitamin E	200-400 IU daily (200 IU daily or 400 IU every other day suggested).	A powerful antioxidant. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form. Ester E Natural Vitamin E, California Natural, 400 IU, 60 Softgels, Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels, Vitamin E-1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels, Vitamin E, d-alpha-tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels

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KIDNEY STONES SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS

Supplements and products for kidney stones, hard masses of mineral salts that can form anywhere along the urinary tract.

Alfalfa Leaf Root (Medicago Sativa) Powder, Kosher, 4 oz. Bulk Alfalfa's (Medicago sativa) deep root system pulls valuable minerals from the soil. With the aid of sunlight, nutrients including beta carotene and chlorophyll are made available to the body in a usable form.

Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps Nature's Way Alfa Max Alfalfa Extract capsules is a 10X extract of fresh green alfalfa leaves.

Alfalfa, NOW Foods, 650 mg (10 Grain), 500 Tabs NOW Food's Alfalfa tablets deliver excellent health benefits. Alfalfa is a rich natural source of chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and protein which supports a healthy colon.

Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral With Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way, 90 Tabs No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than Nature's Way Alive Multi-Vitamin. Alive Multi-Vitamin is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands.

Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral With 18 mg Iron Added, Nature's Way, 90 Tabs Nature's Way Alive multi vitamin with mineral is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands. No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than Alive, which is just the way it will make you feel.

Bean Pod Tincture, 2 fl. oz. Bean Pod contains amino acids and enzymes. It gradually aids the pancreas to produce insulin,

Bilberry Extract Tincture,2 fl. oz. Helpful with many different diseases of the eyes including vascular retinal disturbances, cataracts, diabetic-induced glaucoma, myopia, and all forms of eye strain.

Buchu Leaves Tincture, Alternative Health & Herbs Remedies, 2 fl. oz. Buchu leaves act as a diuretic and antiseptic, and today is used in treating inflammation of the urethra, blood in the urine, bladder infections, and other chronic urinary tract disorders.

Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. WaterOz Ionic Calcium is a pure liquid Calcium supplement. Calcium is one of the most essential of the major biochemical elements needed in human nutrition. It is needed in every organ of the body, including the brain. Calcium is called the "knitter" because it promotes healing or knitting everywhere in the body. It is valuable for tone, power, strength, longevity, vitality, and endurance, healing of wounds, counter-acting acids, and helping regulate metabolism.

Celery Seed Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Celery seed, an arthritis herbal remedy, also has an ancient reputation for treating muscle spasms, high blood pressure, gout, sleeplessness, depression, and anxiety.

Corn Silk Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Cornsilk is used to soothe the urinary tract and can give relief to the bladder, kidneys and small intestines.

Cranberry Juice Concentrate, Natural Premium Quality, Kosher, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz. This cranberry juice concentrate is in an 8 oz space saving size and is ideal for smoothies and makes a delicious healthy topping.

Dandelion Root (Taraxacum Officinale) Powder, 4 oz. Dandelion root is known as a blood purifier for liver and kidney disorders. Dandelion root also contains nutritive salts to build up the blood.

Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Dandelion root is a natural diuretic and improves appetite and minor digestive problems. Dandelion leaves are commonly recommended as a food supplement for pregnant and post-menopausal women.

Dr. Clark Kidney Cleanse, 8 Part Unique System, 4 Week Cleanse Kit The Dr Clark Kidney Cleanse includes herbs traditionally used to support the cleansing of the kidneys of waste materials, including those from the activity of kidney stones, edema in lungs, arms, or abdomen.

Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 60 mg, 120 Vegetarian Caps Nature's Way Ginkgo biloba extract is a technically and scientifically advanced herbal extract standardized to 24% Ginkgo flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones, supported by whole Gotu Kola herb.

GinkGold, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, Vegetarian, 60 mg, 150 Tabs Backed by over 35 years of extensive research, including over 400 published scientific and clinical studies, Nature's Way Ginkgold ginkgo biloba extract has been proven to support healthy circulation to the brain as well as the extremities.

Goldenrod Tincture, 2 fl. oz. In Europe, Goldenrod is used in conjunction with other remedies and/or medications for the treatment of bladder infections, irritation of the urinary tract, and bladder or kidney stones.

Gravel Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Today Gravel root is used for kidney stones, cystitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Because it encourages the excretion of excess uric acid, it is also used to treat rheumatism and gout.

Hydrangea Root, Nature's Way, 415 mg, 100 Caps Hydrangea root has traditionally been used to strengthen the urinary tract and help regulate its function. This plant contains alkaloids which help soothe the body, especially in the bladder and kidney areas. Hydrangea root also works like a natural inflammation reliever and cleanses the joint areas.

Hydrangea Tincture, 2 fl. oz. Hydrangea is used in the treatment of kidney and bladder stones. It is thought both to encourage the expulsion of stones and to help dissolve those that remain.

Juniper Berries, Nature's Way, 425 mg, 100 Caps Juniper berries strengthen the urinary system and help the body eliminate excess water and toxins. Juniper berries (Juniperis communis) were used as a food and a medicine by the Indians of the American plains.

Kidney / Bladder Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Use the Kidney Bladder Formula for Auto-immune Diseases, Bladder, Cancer, Cold Sores and deposits.

Kidney Bladder Formula w/ Uva Ursi, Nature's Way, 465 mg, 100 Caps Nature's Way Kidney Bladder Formula contains Uva Ursi (Bearberry) and Juniper berry, two historically popular for kidney and bladder complaints.

Kidney Clean, Balanceuticals, 60 Caps Traditional Chinese medicine uses their special cleansing properties to promote blood circulation, dissolve stasis and accelerate rejection of waste and toxins from kidney and urinary tract.

Kidney Fortifier Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags This soothing kidney tea is made of naturally harvested herbs. Chinese medicine uses these herbs as them as a diuretic and to maintain healthy kidney functions.

Kidney Rejuvenator, Peter Gillhams Natural Vitality, 90 Tabs Kidney Rejuvenator is a proprietary blend of powerful herbs that support the kidney's vital functions.

Kidney Support Wellness Oil, 2 fl. oz. Kidney Support Wellness Oil was designed to promote the health of your kidneys.

L-Methionine, 500 mg, Plus Vitamin B-6, 10 mg, 100 Caps L-Methionine is an essential sulfur amino acid. The body cannot produce L-Methionine, which must be obtained from food or supplement sources.

Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, Magnesium Water, 350 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. WaterOz Ionic Magnesium is a pure liquid Magnesium supplement. Magnesium is a natural tranquilizer. Called the "anti-stress mineral," it aids in relaxing nerves, relieving tension, assisting digestion, activating enzymes important for protein and carbohydrate metabolism.

Marshmallow Root, Nature's Way, 455 mg, 100 Caps Nature's Way Marshmallow root is Certified Organically Processed by Oregon Tilth. It exceeds California Health and Safety Code 26569.11. Marshmallow Root has soothing properties and nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.

Marshmallow Root Tincture, 2 fl. oz. The primary use of Marshmallow root is to relieve digestive and respiratory problems, such as coughs, colds, sore throats and asthma.

NephroEase For Kidney Health, TCM Formula, Luma Yushen, 100% Natural, 500 mg, 60 Caps Used in Chinese medicine for its nutritive, brain nurturing, cardiotonic, diuretic, kidney tonifying, liver supporting, bone and muscle strengthening, spleen and kidney warming.

Parsley Root (Petroselinum Sativum) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk Useful for chronic liver and gallbladder diseases. The roots act most readily on the kidneys in comparison to other parts of the plant. Combine Parsley Root with Plantain and Marshmallow Root for kidney and bladder infections.

Parsley Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Considered a strong diuretic, useful against fluid retention, urinary/kidney stones and urinary infections. Strengthening to the digestion.

Pomegranate Extract, Standardized To 40% Ellagic Acid, Nature's Way, 60 VCaps Pomegranate Extract is standardized to 40% ellagic acid from a pure whole-fruit source to maximize its antioxidant benefits.

Pomegranate Juice Concentrate, Natural Kosher, Dynamic Health, 8 fl. oz. This Pomegranate Juice Concentrate comes in a convenient 8 ounce size and has no preservatives and no sugar added. Pomegranate juice is highly nutritious and contains energy-giving proteins as well as lime, iron and phosphorus.

Potassium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 340 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. WaterOz Ionic Potassium is a pure liquid Potassium supplement. Potassium aids rheumatic or arthritic conditions and is vital for the elimination of wastes.

Pumpkin Seed Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 100 Softgels Pumpkin Seed Oil is a nutritional oil rich in essential fatty acids. Our pumpkin seed oil is 100% natural and is screened for potency and purity.

Urinary Supplement Formula, With Cranberry Fruit, Nature's Way, 480 mg, 100 Caps Nature's Way Urinary Supplement formula is an advanced dietary supplement representing the powerful synergy of current science and traditional herbal medicine.

Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.

Vitamin C 500 With Bioflavonoids, 100% Natural, 500 mg, 250 Capsules Vitamin C 500 With Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.

Vitamin E, D-alpha Tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.

Wolfberry Tincture, Goji Juice Concentrate (Lycium Barbarum), 2 fl. oz. Wolfberry (Goji) has healing benefits of nourishing and strengthening the eyes, liver, kidneys and nourishing the blood.

Zinc Chelate, 100% Natural Supplement, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps Nature's Way chelated zinc supplement is 100% natural chelated with an advanced amino acid complex for superior absorption.

HerbalRemedies: Kidney Stone Information

HerbalRemedies: Kidney Stone Supplements & Products

HerbalRemedies: Kidney Disease Information

HerbalRemedies: Kidney Disease Supplements & Products

HerbalRemedies: Edema / Water Retention Information

HerbalRemedies: Edema / Water Retention Supplements & Products

HerbalRemedies: Nephritis Supplements, Information & Products

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

American Urological Association Foundation
1000 Corporate Boulevard
Linthicum, MD 21090
Phone: 1 866-RING-AUA (746-4282) or 410 689-3700
Email: patienteducation@auafoundation.org
Internet: www.auafoundation.org or www.UrologyHealth.org


National Kidney Foundation
30 East 33rd Street
New York, NY 10016
Phone: 1 800 622-9010 or 212 889-2210
Internet: www.kidney.org

Oxalosis & Hyperoxaluria Foundation
201 East 19th Street, Suite 12E
New York, NY 10003
Phone: 1 800 OHF-8699 (643-8699) or 212 777-0470
Fax: 212 777-0471
Email: execdirector@ohf.org
Internet: www.ohf.org

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HYPERPARATHYROIDISM

National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
National Institutes of Health
6 Information Way
Bethesda, MD 20892-3569
Phone: 1 888 828-0904
Fax: 703 738-4929
Email: endoandmeta@info.niddk.nih.gov

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT GOUT

National Institute of Arthritis & Musculoskeletal & Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse
National Institutes of Health
1 AMS Circle
Bethesda, MD 20892-3675
Phone: 1 877 22-NIAMS (226-4267) or 301 495-4484
TTY: 301 565-2966
Fax: 301 718-6366
Email: niamsinfo@mail.nih.gov
Internet: www.niams.nih.gov

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Kidney Disorders & Diseases

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Gout



NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

FOR KIDNEY STONES

Show signs of kidney stones, including pain, blood in urine, and other signs mentioned on this page.

If pain continues or increases after home treatment or if you have other medical conditions that may prevent you from using recommended home remedies. You may need to be examined and x-rayed to determine size and type of stone you may be trying to pass. Further medical treatment may be necessary to eliminate stones.

If you show signs of infection.

If you develop new unexplained signs or symptoms. Medications and other therapies may have side effects associated with the treatment.

If you need help in designing a dietary program for your particular situation.

FOR KIDNEY DISEASE

Several signs and symptoms may suggest complications of chronic kidney disease. Call your health care provider if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Change in energy level or strength.
• Increased water retention (puffiness or swelling) in the legs, around the eyes or in other parts of the body.
• Shortness of breath or change from normal breathing.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Light-headedness or dizziness.
• Severe bone or joint pain.
• Easy bruisability.
• Itching.

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney problems, see your health care provider right away if you know or suspect that you are pregnant. See your health care provider as recommended for monitoring and treatment of chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Some signs and symptoms represent the possibility of a severe complication of chronic kidney disease and warrant a visit to the nearest hospital emergency department.

• Change in level of consciousness - extreme sleepiness or difficult to awaken.
• Fainting.
• Chest pain.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Severe nausea and vomiting.
• Severe bleeding (from any source).
• Severe weakness.

Notify your midwife you develop signs of toxemia of pregnancy (preeclampsia/eclampsia). See Toxemia for more information.

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