Can the keto diet cause kidney stones?

The keto diet trend has been sweeping the nation – for a good reason. This high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet has been shown to help people lose weight, improve their mental clarity, and increase their energy levels.

However, as with any diet, there are potential risks involved with following the keto diet – one of which is kidney stones. This blog post will explore the link between the keto diet and kidney stones. We will also provide tips for preventing kidney stones if you follow a keto diet.

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are a widespread problem, affecting about one in every ten people. They are most common among adults aged 30-60 years old.

Kidney stones usually occur when there is too much calcium or oxalate in the urine. The stones can be tiny, like grains of sand, or as large as a golf ball.

Most kidney stones will pass out of the body on their own with plenty of fluids and pain relief medication. However, some rocks can get stuck in the urinary tract and cause pain or blockage. In this case, treatment may be necessary to remove the stone.

If you have kidney stones, your doctor may recommend making changes to your diet to help prevent future stones from forming. For example, you may need to limit your intake of foods high in calcium or oxalate. You should also drink more fluids and avoid dehydration.

What causes kidney stones?

Many different factors can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Kidney stones are most commonly formed when there is an excess of certain minerals or acids in the urine. It can be due to various reasons, including dehydration, a diet high in animal protein or salt, or a medical condition affecting kidney function.

One of the most typical causes of kidney stones is dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, the urine becomes more concentrated and allows minerals to form crystals.

A diet high in animal protein or salt can also lead to kidney stones by increasing the amount of calcium and other minerals in the urine. Certain medical conditions, such as renal failure or gout, can also cause kidney stones by affecting kidney function and increasing the levels of minerals in the urine.

How does the keto diet affect kidney stones?

The keto diet has been shown to cause an increase in kidney stones. It is because the keto diet forces the body to produce more acid, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Are there any other risks associated with the keto diet?

Yes, there are other risks associated with the keto diet. These include:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar is a common side effect of the keto diet. It can cause symptoms like dizziness, sweating, shaking, and confusion. If you have diabetes or take medication for blood sugar control, you should be especially careful with the keto diet.
• Dehydration: The keto diet can cause dehydration because it eliminates many fruits and vegetables that contain water. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dark urine, dry mouth, and fatigue.
• Kidney stones: As mentioned above, the keto diet can increase your risk for kidney stones because it causes your body to excrete more calcium in your urine. 
• Gout: The keto diet can also increase your risk for gout, a type of arthritis that causes pain, swelling, and redness in the joints.

How can I prevent kidney stones on the keto diet?

You can take a few supplements on the ketogenic diet to help prevent kidney stones:

• Drink plenty of water. It will help dilute your urine and make it less likely for rocks to form.
• Limit your intake of animal protein. Too much animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stones. Choose plant-based proteins instead.
• Avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar. These can promote stone formation.
• Get enough magnesium. This mineral helps to prevent kidney stones by keeping calcium in the bones and out of the urine.

Conclusion

There is no definitive answer to this question, as everyone's bodies react differently to the keto diet. However, some evidence suggests that the keto diet can cause kidney stones in some people. If you are considering trying the keto diet, you must speak with your doctor to ensure it is safe.