(NaturalHealth365)  It is generally accepted as a fact that added sugar in your diet is unhealthy, even if that measure is simply just added weight.  Modern science, however, indicates that added sugar consumed regularly can have a profound impact on just about every system in our bodies.

Most of our NaturalHealth365 readers know that too much sugar is linked to diabetes, heart disease, cognitive decline, some cancers, obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and a host of other diseases.  But, a recent study adds kidney stones to that list.  With access to added sugar easier than it has ever been, the results of this study should be a concern to anyone who doesn’t want to experience the excruciating pain of kidney stones.

Let’s take a look at the science and see what it has to say.

NEW study explores the sugar-kidney stone link

Kidney stones manifest due to various factors, often stemming from a blend of dehydration and specific dietary exposures.  Certain dietary factors, like the interaction of particular components in tea and dairy, are widely recognized by medical professionals.

What’s truly concerning is that a significant portion of Americans unknowingly consume added sugar daily, often under various names such as cane sugar, treacle, beet sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and brown sugar, among others.  The focus of the primary study under discussion centers on the impact of added sugar on kidney health.

Researchers find added sugar may have detrimental effect on kidney health

The study was meticulously designed, encompassing 34,770 participants aged 20 and above.  Throughout the study duration, these participants were tasked with self-reporting their dietary habits.  Upon enrollment, they underwent evaluations to assess both their kidney stone history and risk.

Researchers conducted regular individualized sessions with the participants, delving into their average calorie intake, sugar consumption, and overall nutritional choices.  The participants diligently kept track of their caloric intake.

The study’s findings painted a clear picture: participants who incorporated added sugar into their diets faced a notable 10% elevation in the likelihood of developing kidney stones.  Notably, the researchers classified participants into subgroups based on factors like culture, age, and activity levels.  Surprisingly, the 10% increased risk persisted consistently across all these subgroups.

Is added sugar a concern?  The resounding YES you need to hear

The unfortunate reality is that health-conscious consumers find themselves at odds with the intentions of Big Food corporations, as these food manufacturing giants surreptitiously infuse copious amounts of extra sugar into everyday food products.

For those already perched on the precipice of kidney stone risk, avoiding added sugar as much as possible is a sensible approach to minimizing the risk of having to experience the pain of this condition.  And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.  The repercussions of added sugars extend their grip onto diabetes and the intricate interplay between this metabolic condition and kidney health, embarking on a potent feedback loop with potential consequences.

Here are some proactive measures to minimize your risk of developing kidney stones

1. Hydration is key:  Maintain adequate hydration as your first line of defense.  Drink enough clean water throughout the day to keep your urine dilute (a pale yellow color) and your kidneys functioning optimally.
2. Choose nutrient-rich foods:  Prioritize a diet rich in organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and sprouts.  These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also contain valuable dietary fiber that supports healthy digestion.
3. Include citrus fruits:  Organic citrus fruits like lemons and oranges contain citrate, which can help prevent certain types of kidney stones.  Enjoy these fruits as snacks, or use their juices to flavor water.
4. Reduce added sugar intake:  As recent research highlights the link between added sugars and kidney stone risk, it’s wise to reduce your consumption of sugary (processed) foods and beverages.
5. Limit soda and caffeine:  Sodas and certain caffeinated beverages can increase the risk of stone formation.  Opt for clean water, organic herbal teas, and other healthier options instead.
6. Maintain a healthy weight:  Strive for a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.  Obesity can contribute to kidney stone risk, so maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial.

By embracing these proactive steps, you’ll be taking significant strides toward safeguarding your kidney health and minimizing the risk of kidney stone formation.

Sources for this article include:

Frontiersin.org