Fad diets and their effect on urinary stone formation

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Nutrition Science
• Dietary Medicine

Background:

• Dietary habits are crucial for preventing nephrolithiasis (kidney stones).
• Limited research exists on fad diets' effects on kidney stone risk.
• Popular diets are often self-prescribed for weight management or cultural reasons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze current knowledge on popular diets' impact on lithogenic risk.
• To evaluate the influence of fad diets on kidney stone formation.
• To provide evidence-based dietary advice for kidney stone prevention.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of popular diets and their effects on urinary stone risk factors.
• Analysis of dietary components (protein, carbohydrates, fats, micronutrients) and their lithogenic potential.
• Comparison of different dietary patterns (high-protein, low-carbohydrate, vegan, vegetarian, Mediterranean) regarding kidney stone risk.

Main Results:

• High-protein diets (e.g., Dukan) increase urinary calcium and decrease citrate, raising lithogenic risk.
• Low-carbohydrate diets (e.g., Atkins) may offer protection but can also increase calciuria and decrease citraturia.
• Vegan diets pose risks for hyperuricemia and deficiencies; lacto-ovo-vegetarian diets are beneficial with balanced calcium and oxalate intake.
• Mediterranean diet shows potential protective effects due to antioxidants and phytates.

Conclusions:

• Mild animal protein restriction, balanced macronutrients, and high fruit/vegetable intake are optimal for kidney stone prevention.
• Normal dairy intake and salt restriction are vital, often overlooked in fad diets.
• Dietary advice for patients considering fad diets must integrate these fundamental nutritional aspects.