Why Do I Get Kidney Stones? The Calcium Conundrum And Connection
The unpleasant small rock-like balls known as kidney stones can build up in our soft tissue kidneys as a result of poor detoxification or exposure to certain toxins. Oh, they are great. Nobody likes having them, and handing them out is certainly not a piece of cake given the suffering involved. But did you know that a hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) can help you avoid kidney stones and possibly identify your susceptibility?
Understanding Kidney Stones
Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis, are small hard pellets formed inside the kidneys, consisting of elements and salts. These elements can often include calcium deposits, metal deposits, or oxalates, which are commonly derived from plant foods. The development of kidney stones can be attributed to various factors such as diet, excessive body fat, certain medical conditions, and the use of supplements and medications. However, many cases of kidney stones can be prevented, particularly by maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring proper mineral balance. In the following sections, we will delve into strategies to avoid kidney stones by focusing on dietary choices and mineral equilibrium.
It is important to note that kidney stones can cause severe pain in the lower back, abdomen, and groin, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fever. Hence, prevention is key when it comes to kidney stones. One of the dietary choices that can be beneficial in preventing kidney stones is increased water intake. Drinking enough fluids can dilute urine and reduce the chances of crystals forming in the kidneys. Additionally, reducing the intake of foods that are high in oxalates, such as spinach, nuts, and chocolate, can also lower the risk of developing kidney stones. Proper mineral balance can be maintained by moderating the intake of sodium, animal protein, and vitamin C. By following these strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing kidney stones and maintain optimal kidney health.
The Culprits Behind Kidney Stones
There are different kinds of oxalates, including soluble and insoluble ones. Soluble oxalates are often connected to sodium or potassium as a salt, while others are not. Soluble oxalates can completely dissolve in liquid, allowing them to easily pass through our body's barriers, like the gut. On the other hand, insoluble oxalates tend to settle wherever they end up and can build up, leading to tissue lodging or inflammation. This happens because insoluble oxalates, lacking salt bonds, can sometimes bind to calcium instead. Calcium oxalate crystals can start small but have the tendency to grow larger over time. Sources of soluble oxalates include buckwheat, navy beans, and peanuts, while insoluble oxalates can be found in foods like swiss chard, sweet potato, rhubarb, and beets.
Oxalates and Their Impact
Oxalates, even in the form of tiny particles, have the ability to attach to cells and potentially cause harm when they are bound to calcium. While calcium itself is not necessarily harmful, the accumulation of oxalates and calcium can lead to the formation of crystal deposits in various parts of the body, such as the arteries, thyroid, gallbladder, and kidneys. These crystal formations can have negative effects on our health. They can cause blockages in arteries, leading to cardiovascular problems. They can also affect the thyroid, contributing to thyroid disorders. Additionally, crystal formations in the gallbladder can lead to the development of gallstones, while in the kidneys, they can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. It is important to be aware of the potential harm that these oxalate-calcium accumulations can cause and take measures to prevent their formation. By understanding the impact they can have on our bodies, we can make informed choices to maintain our health and well-being.
Avoiding Kidney Stones with HTMA
When you perform an HTMA, you can analyze your calcium levels to determine if they are high or not. Additionally, you can assess the solubility of your cells, which is influenced by the ratio of sodium to potassium (Na:K ratio). If calcium levels are elevated in an HTMA, it could indicate several possibilities. It may signify a loss of calcium from the bones and teeth, an accumulation of calcium in soft tissues, or the presence of toxins like cadmium, lead, or aluminum that are causing calcium to leach out from the bones and teeth. Ensure to consider these factors when interpreting the results of an HTMA.
Managing Kidney Stones
To keep calcium in the bones and teeth, it's important to optimize certain minerals like boron, magnesium, potassium, and sodium. Boron, for instance, plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels within the cells. By keeping calcium in cells, boron helps promote bone health and prevent its loss from the skeletal system. Another essential mineral, magnesium, acts as a counterbalance to calcium. It aids in maintaining the right balance between calcium and magnesium in the body, thereby supporting the overall calcium metabolism. Additionally, potassium plays a vital role in improving cell solubility, ensuring that calcium is readily absorbed by the body and efficiently utilized in bone formation. Sodium, on the other hand, also contributes to maintaining optimal calcium levels. Depending on the results of the test, you may be advised to take additional supplements rich in these minerals to support a specific marker and enhance the overall health of your bones and teeth.
Let's assume, though, that you are now having kidney stones. Although passing kidney stones can be extremely painful, the majority of people can do it on their own with enough fluids. Some supplements, like potassium, magnesium (which we sell here and here), and even apple cider vinegar due to its acetic acid content, have been demonstrated to aid in the removal of stones. Even other plants like chanca piedra, which means "stone breaker" in English, can be taken into consideration. If none of those helps or things become worse, you could require surgery or medication.
Conclusion
In conclusion, kidney stones are undeniably painful and disruptive, but they are not an inevitability. With the insights gained from a HTMA, you can assess your risk factors and take proactive steps to maintain your kidney health. Understanding the role of oxalates and calcium, as well as the significance of minerals like boron, magnesium, and potassium, empowers you to prevent kidney stones before they form. Furthermore, should you find yourself facing the discomfort of kidney stones, there are natural remedies and supplements that may offer relief. Remember, your health is in your hands, and by considering an HTMA today, you're taking a crucial step towards a future free from the burden of kidney stones. Don't wait; start your journey towards kidney stone prevention and optimal health now.
To get an HTMA from us right away and prevent kidney stones, click here!
Barbara Madimenos
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis Practitioner
Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner
Integrative Health Coach