Hydration plays crucial role in preventing and treating nephrolithiasis

Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial in both preventing and treating nephrolithiasis, a condition affecting around 10% of the population, according to a study.

The study highlights the role of insufficient fluid intake in the formation of kidney stones and emphasizes that increasing fluid intake has a preventive effect on the risk of developing kidney stones for the first time (primary prevention) and reduces the likelihood of stone recurrence (secondary prevention).

Current guidelines recommend a minimum daily fluid intake of 2.5 liters, with higher fluid intake levels of 3.5-4 liters recommended for severe forms of nephrolithiasis, such as primary hyperoxaluria.

Maintaining a balance in fluid intake throughout the day and night is particularly relevant for individuals with primary hyperoxaluria to avoid urinary supersaturation during nighttime hours. Water is the preferred liquid due to its composition, while certain beverages, such as those containing fructose or phosphoric acid, may increase the risk of nephrolithiasis.

The study underscores the importance of personalized approaches to fluid intake for individuals with specific forms of nephrolithiasis, including primary hyperoxaluria, as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy.

Reference
Courbebaisse M, Travers S, Bouderlique E, et al. Hydration for Adult Patients with Nephrolithiasis: Specificities and Current Recommendations. Nutrients. 2023;15(23):4885. doi: 10.3390/nu15234885. PMID: 38068743.