For those with kidney stones, the question of whether drinking milk is beneficial or harmful is certainly a point of concern. Many individuals pause at the notion of milk-containing products owing to the fact that kidney stones frequently occur because of calcium deposits. Still, the situation is not as straightforward, and considering the association of milk with kidney stones helps to make better food choices when it comes to your condition.
Gaining Knowledge Regarding Kidney Stones
Kidney stones form as harsh deposits of minerals and salts in the kidneys. The causes are usually connected to urine that contains calcium, oxalate, and uric acid in amounts which are greater than what the urine liquid can dilute, resulting in crystal formations. Some common types of kidney stones are:-
- The most prevalent kind known as Calcium Oxalate stones occurs when calcium is joined with oxalate.
- Uric Acid stones that are generally associated with individuals having a high purine diet, resulting in acidic urine.
- Struvite stones that occur as a result of urinary tract infections.
- Less frequently seen due to some genetic disorders regarding amino acid metabolism is cystine stones.
Due to the calcium oxalate stones being the most common type of stones prevalent, most people believe that reducing calcium consumption, such as milk intake, will aid in the avoidance of stone formation. But is this really the case?
Milk and Kidney Stones: A Blend of Conception and Deception
It is a common misconception that milk and dairy products increase the chances of getting kidney stones because of the calcium they possess. Recent evidence suggests otherwise. Foods containing calcium like milk do not lead to the creation of kidney stones. In fact, calcium can help in stone prevention.
The Part Calcium Plays in Stone Formation Prevention
A significant amount of dietary calcium aids in preventing the absorption of oxalates — a substance that is naturally occurring in foods like chocolate, spinach, and nuts — within the intestine. Sufficient calcium in the diet traps oxalates in the intestines in the case before they reach the kidneys so that stones do not have a chance to form.
People who followed diets rich in calcium were less prone to kidney stones than those who consumed a low-calcium diet, according to a study in the Journal of Urology. That study did observe, however, that calcium as a dietary supplement (not a food one) carried increased risk of kidney stones. That shows the importance of obtaining calcium from sources such as yogurt, milk and cheese.
Can Plant or Herb-Based Milk Act as A Substitute?
With the increase in number of people practicing vegetarianism, the question now lies with which out of almond, soy, oat or coconut milk is the most suitable for patients with kidney stones. The comparison is as follows:
1. Almond Milk- Use Cautiously
Almond milk is high in oxalates which is the primary causes for calcium oxalate stones. For those individuals struggling with kidney stones, almond milk pose a good substitute only if it is calcium fortified and consumed with careful moderation.
2. Soy Milk- Dependent on Individuals Tolerance Level
Soy milk is moderate in oxalates and has been linked to other studies on kidney stones disease. Nevertheless, soy products are also highly plant protein and other important nutrients. In thesame manner, if you decide to take soy milk, always go for low oxalate and high calcium options.
3. Oat Milk- A Safer Option
Oat milk is a good option when it comes to kidney stones as they are known to be low in oxalates. Oat milk provides its users with vitamins, fibers and other good components, though moderation is recommended due to potentially high doses of suger in some brands.
4. Coconut Milk – Use Sparingly
Coconut milk is low in oxalates and calcium, thus making it unlikely to cause kidney stones. This milk is relatively higher in fat; therefore, overconsumption may not be good for those suffering from kidney problems.
What is the Recommended Amount of Milk Per Day?
Drinking milk during kidney stones is permissible, but as with most things, moderation is key. The daily calcium requirement varies with age and gender:
Adults (19-50 years): 1,000 mg/day
Women above 50 and men above 70: 1,200 mg/day
Teenagers (14-18 years): 1,300 mg/day
One glass of milk (250 ml) has about 300mg of calcium, so about two to three servings a day is ideal.
Which Milk Do You Recommend for Kidney Stones?
Different kinds of milk contain different levels of calcium and oxalates, as can be seen from the table beneath.
- Cow’s Milk – Contains a lot of calcium and little oxalates, hence prevents kidney stones.
- Almond Milk – Contains a lot of oxalates, hence can increase stone risk.
- Soy Milk – Contains moderate amount of oxalates, hence can be used as a substitute for cow’s milk.
- Oat Milk – Contains the least oxalates, however, has the least calcium too.
- Coconut Milk – Has low calcium content; not suitable for inhibiting kidney stones.
For those prone to kidney stones, cow’s milk or calcium-fortified plant milk (lower in oxalates) is the best choice.
Other lifestyle aspects of Kidney Stones
While milk can be consumed during a kidney stone diet,other dietary factors that may encourage stone development include:
1. Water and Other fluids
Water aides in diluting urine and cleaning out minerals that lead to stones. Aim for at least 2.5-3 liters of fluid daily.
2. Avoid Foods With High Oxalates
Certain foods like spinach, rhubarb, beets, and nuts have high amounts of oxalates. If consumed, try to combine them with high calcium foods to aid in limiting absorption.
3. Stop Consuming Salt
High sodium levels lead to even higher calcium concentrations in urine, which increases the risk for kidney stones. Reduce eating processed foods, fast food, and snacks with high sodium levels.
4. Limit Meat Based Food
Notable amounts of animal protein can aid in raising uric acid levels, which helps in the formation of stones. Try consuming low protein food like fish or plant protean.
5. Stop With Sugary Stuff
Drinks like soda and those rich in fructose promote the formation of kidney stones. Go for water or natural fruit juice in moderation.
Milk’s Affect on Kidney Stone Sufferers: The Final Verdict
It is fine to consume milk even while experiencing kidney stones since it may help prevent the formation of calcium oxalate stones. The trick is to get calcium from natural sources such as milk, instead of supplements. Consuming adequate fluids and decreasing oxalate intake will mitigate the chances of developing kidney stones.
Kidney Stones with Dr. Deepanshu Gupta
If you are in pain because of kidney stones and need help from a medical expert, consider seeing Dr. Deepanshu Gupta, an adept urologist who specializes in dealing with kidney stones and urological health. He has considerable expertise in the management of stones, laser therapy, preventive techniques, and offers personalized treatment to help kidney stone sufferer patients.
For effective diagnosis and management plans, along with a tailored diet to prevent the development of kidney stones, consult with Dr. Deepanshu Gupta today.