Rocks in your Kidneys?

Kidney stones are an increasing problem in the United States. 100 or so years ago, when our nation's diet was primarily made up of whole, unprocessed food, kidney stones barely existed. Now that most American's food consumption is lower in fiber, high in fat, sugar and junk, kidney stones are fairly common. Kidney stones are made up of 80% calcium salts. It is important to avoid animal fats from meat products as animal fat causes the body to excrete calcium. The same with too much dairy products. The extra calcium ends up in the urinary tract. What most people do not know is that sugar is a major culprit in producing kidney stones. Sugar causes an increase in the hormone insulin. High levels of insulin pulls calcium out of the bones and sends it to the kidneys. Stay away from all sources of refined sugar. Soft drinks are the worst offender because they are high in sugar, plus they contain phosphorous, which has been linked to kidney stone production.

Thought for the Week: " You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough." ----- Joe E. Lewis