What Do You Drink for Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are a common disorder of the urinary system, occurring any time solutes build up in the urine. Fortunately, this painful condition can be treated quite easily at home.

Identification

• Kidney stones develop when the urine becomes so saturated with minerals it cannot dissolve any additional minerals. These undissolved minerals crystallize and form hard stones in the urinary system.

Treatment

• In most cases, kidney stones simply need to pass through the urinary system for excretion with the urine. To make this easier, doctors commonly recommend drinking significantly more liquids to increase urine output.

What To Drink

• Water is the best liquid to drink to encourage the passing of kidney stones. Unsweetened fruit juices, such as cranberry and apple juice, are also extremely beneficial.

What To Avoid

• Avoid drinking tea, soda and alcohol when treating kidney stones. Also avoid all beverages that contain high fructose corn syrup.

Prevention

• Drinking sufficient amounts of water can also prevent the formation of kidney stones. Aim to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour you are awake and at least 8 ounces if you wake up during the night.