Preventing kidney stones with smart habits and technology
Kidney stones are excruciatingly painful and can significantly disrupt your daily life. If you've had kidney stones before, you know how important prevention is. A urologist can create a personalized plan to stop kidney stones before they form.
This article explores key strategies for preventing kidney stones, including the role of hydration and smart water bottles. However, the most effective approach involves consulting a urologist who can assess your unique risk factors and recommend the best course of action.
Why Staying Hydrated is Crucial for Preventing Kidney Stones
The cornerstone of kidney stone prevention is adequate hydration. A urologist can determine the optimal amount of fluids you need daily, but generally, it's around 2.5 litres. Diluted urine prevents stone-forming minerals from clumping together.
Simple Hacks to Increase Your Fluid Intake
A Reusable Water Bottle You Love: Find a reusable bottle that motivates you to drink consistently throughout the day, saving plastic in the process.
Transform Your Bottle into a Hydration Coach: Mark water levels or use stickers to track your progress. Some large reusable water bottles already have set goals. Check out some of our recommended water bottles. Alternatively, you can set smartphone alarms to remind you to drink water.
Hydration apps. We have checked out the best water reminder apps around, read our review of the 6 best hydration apps.
Smart reminders on any bottle such as the Ulla Smart Light for Hydration can be attached to any water bottle and lights up to remind you to drink at least once per hour
Can Smart Water Bottles Help?
Smart water bottles take hydration to the next level with features like:
Automatic Tracking: These high-tech bottles sync with apps to log your intake effortlessly. Explore options like Hidrate Spark 3 or Hidrate Spark Pro which connects to your phone and reminds you to drink with a gentle glow.
Temperature Sensors: Some models monitor water temperature, reminding you to drink before it gets lukewarm or cold (unpleasant for many).
Smart Water Bottles
Studies show that patients using smart water bottles significantly increased their urine output compared to those receiving standard advice [1]. These bottles may be particularly helpful for those who struggle to remember to drink enough fluids. Although proven to be clinically helpful they have other potential concerns including cost, battery life and charging as well as potential data privacy.
Additional Tips to Prevent Kidney Stones:
Dietary Adjustments: A urologist can create a personalized diet plan that limits salty foods, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods (spinach, chocolate).
Ditch Sugary Drinks: They dehydrate you and contribute to stone formation. Stick to water, unsweetened tea, or diluted fruit juices.
Move Your Body: Regular exercise promotes kidney health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days.
See a Urologist Regularly: Schedule consultations to discuss your risk factors and preventive measures. They can recommend medications or supplements if needed
By following these tips and consulting a urologist, you can significantly reduce your risk of kidney stones. Remember, consistency is key! Let a urologist help you develop a personalized plan and empower yourself to live a more stone-free life.
Mr Ivo Dukic is a consultant urological surgeon specialising in kidney and ureteric stone surgery and offers personalised consultations. You can schedule an appointment with him through his Top Doctors profile for expert, bespoke advice or make an appointment through
1. Stout TE, Lingeman JE, Krambeck AE, Humphreys MR, Zisman A, Elfering S, et al. A Randomized Trial Evaluating the Use of a Smart Water Bottle to Increase Fluid Intake in Stone Formers. Journal of Renal Nutrition. 2022 Jul 1;32(4):389–95.