Understanding Kidney Stones: A Men's Health Focus

June is Men's Health Month, making it the perfect time to highlight a common but often overlooked issue: kidney stones. Did you know that kidney stones affect men more frequently than women?¹ By understanding the risks and prevention methods, you can help maintain your kidney health and overall well-being.

Kidney stones are small, hard crystals or deposits that form inside your kidneys when salts and other minerals in your urine bond together. These stones can vary in shape and size, with some growing quite large. While some stones remain in the kidneys and cause little to no symptoms, others may pass through the urinary tract, causing significant pain as they move down the ureter, the thin tube that leads to the bladder. In some cases, people can pass the stone without surgical intervention, but surgery may be necessary to remove larger stones.

Understanding the nature of kidney stones and how to prevent them is crucial, especially for men who are at a higher risk. Read on to learn more about risk factors, prevention tips, and how to keep your kidneys happy and healthy.

4 Types of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are common - affecting upwards of 500,000 men and women every year in the U.S. according to the American Urological Association. They come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from a grain of sand to a golf ball.

• Calcium-oxalate stones - These are the most common type of kidney stone and are typically caused by foods with salt or oxalates (byproducts of certain foods), certain medications and even your genetics.²
• Struvite stones - These affect women more than men. These stones can grow to be very large and may occur with a kidney infection. Surgical removal of these stones is often indicated.²
• Uric acid stones - These stones are made of uric acid, a waste product that is passed out of the body through the urine. They may be caused by eating too much animal protein, such as red meat, and are more common in people with conditions such as gout and inflammatory bowel disease.²
• Cystine stones - These are very rare, caused by a genetic kidney disease called cystinuria.²

Why Are Men More Affected by Kidney Stones?

Research indicates that men are more prone to developing kidney stones than women. Several factors contribute to this disparity:

1. Dietary Choices: Men are often more likely to consume higher amounts of protein, sodium, and oxalate-rich foods, which can contribute to stone formation.
2. Dehydration: Men might not always drink enough water, leading to more concentrated urine and a higher risk of stone formation.
3. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as gout and obesity, more prevalent in men, can increase the risk of kidney stones.

Risk Factors to Watch Out For

While anyone can develop kidney stones, certain factors can elevate your risk:

• A family history of stone disease, especially in first degree relatives.
• Dehydration - Lack of fluids can cause salts and other minerals in the urine to stick together to cause kidney stones.
• Certain diets - Diets high in protein, salt, oxalates (such as spinach, chocolate, nuts), excess vitamin C or D can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
• Certain medical conditions - Gastric conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease and chronic diarrhea affect the way the body absorbs water, calcium and oxalates, which increases levels of stone-forming substances in the urine.
• Metabolic diseases (such as hyperparathyroidism or gout).
• Obesity has been linked to higher incidences of stone formation.

Preventive Measures

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent kidney stones is to stay well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps dilute the substances in urine that lead to stones. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day³, and more if you live in a hot climate or engage in intense physical activities.

Additional Preventive Measures

• Stay well hydrated: Drink enough fluids to produce 2 liters (1/2 gallon) of urine daily. Your urine should be nearly colorless.⁴
• Cut the salt: Limit sodium intake to 2,000 to 2,500 mg/day. Avoid adding salt to food and limit eating out and processed foods.⁴
• Moderate calcium intake: Aim for 800-1,200 mg/day (2 to 3 servings). Normal calcium intake helps avoid over-absorption of oxalate and maintains healthy bones.⁴
• Limit protein: Especially animal-based protein (beef, chicken, pork, fish). High protein diets can increase the rate of kidney stone formation.⁴
• Avoid heavy oxalate intake: Limit foods rich in oxalates like spinach, kale, nuts, and chocolate. Avoid excessive vitamin C.⁴
• Increase citrate intake: Citrate inhibits stone formation. Eat more potassium-rich citrus foods like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits.⁴

Kidney stones are a significant health issue, particularly for men. By understanding the different types of kidney stones, recognizing the risk factors, and implementing effective prevention strategies, you can take control of your kidney health. Staying well-hydrated, managing your diet, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key steps in reducing your risk of developing kidney stones.

This Men's Health Month, prioritize your well-being by staying informed and proactive about kidney health. With the right knowledge and habits, you can keep your kidneys happy and healthy. Remember, small changes today can lead to a healthier future. Stay hydrated, eat wisely, and take care of your kidneys!