Dietary management of urolithiasis.
Within the United States, 5% to 15% of the population will have a symptomatic episode of a stone within the urinary tract by the age of 70. At least 50% of these individuals will have recurrent stone formation if left untreated. The composition of urine from which these stones are formed and in which they grow is, in part, dependent on diet, including fluid intake. The volume of urine is an important determinant of solute concentration. Ionic strength, pH, and the concentration of the major ionic species present in urine determine the level of saturation for any crystal system that could be precipitating. There are many conditions that can be complicated by the formation of calculi within the urinary tract. Identifying the dietary factors that are contributing to the problem and correcting these abnormalities are the foundations for good medical management. This review identifies dietary components that need to be considered in the management of affected patients and considers specific medical problems that may be especially influenced by diet and fluid intake.
Division of Nephrology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
L H
LH
Smith
D006801:Humans; D014545:Urinary Calculi / Q000178:diet therapy*