Kidney stones can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, and treating them often requires medical intervention. One such method is percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves removing the kidney stones through a small incision in the back. While the surgery has a high success rate, it is important to prepare for it properly. One of the key aspects of preparation is avoiding certain foods that could interfere with the procedure or exacerbate your symptoms.
Don’t overdo it with Calcium-rich foods!
If you’re gearing up for a PCNL for kidney stones, you already know how important it is to avoid certain foods in order to make your recovery as smooth as possible. One thing you want to avoid overdoing it with? Calcium-rich foods. While calcium is essential for healthy bones, consuming too much of it before your PCNL procedure can actually increase your risk of forming new stones. Skip the heavy milkshakes and piles of cheese in favor of other foods that won’t lead to kidney stone formation. Stick with us to learn about the top 5 foods you should be avoiding before your PCNL for kidney stones.
Skip the high-sodium snacks.
If you’re gearing up for a pcnl for kidney stones, you’ll want to make sure you’re taking proper care of yourself before the procedure. You’ll want to focus on eating foods that will keep you feeling nourished and healthy. But, did you know that some foods could actually be harmful to your health? That’s right, if you want to prepare properly, you’ll want to avoid certain foods. One of the biggest culprits? High-sodium snacks. So, if your go-to snack is a bag of salt and vinegar chips, it’s time to put them down. High amounts of sodium can cause water retention, leading to swelling and bloating. Why take the risk when you’re preparing for an important surgery? Skip the high-sodium snacks and opt for a healthier, low-sodium option instead. Your body (and your doctor!) Will thank you.
Ditch the caffeine and alcohol for a little while.
If you’re scheduled to have a PCNL for kidney stones, you already know that the procedure requires some dietary restrictions. But did you know that it’s best to avoid caffeine and alcohol in the days leading up to your surgery? Sure, you may feel like coffee or a glass of wine could ease your pre-surgery nerves, but trust us — ditching these drinks is worth it. Caffeine can add extra stress to your kidneys, while alcohol can dehydrate you and affect your blood pressure. Keep your kidneys as happy and healthy as possible by staying away from the java and happy hour for a little while. It may be a small sacrifice now, but it’ll pay off big time in the long run.
