Weight Loss Surgeon
Bariatric Surgery and Kidney Stones
Can Bariatric Surgery lead to Kidney Stones formation?
Although bariatric surgery does not directly cause kidney stones, the following urinary changes after surgery may contribute to the acceleration of kidney stone formation:
– Decreased amounts of urine, which is caused by dehydration and can concentrate waste products to form kidney stones more easily.
– Increased levels of a compound called oxalates.
– Increased levels of calcium, which enters the bloodstream when a diet is too high in salt (sodium).
Having high levels of calcium and oxalates in concentrated urine increases the risk of developing calcium oxalate kidney stones, which are the most common type of kidney stone.
Drinking enough water, decreasing salt intake, and eating less animal protein is a few things everyone can do to lower their risk.
However, there are specific steps that I recommend that patients who have had bariatric surgery take to reduce their risk. These steps relate to the levels of oxalates and calcium in a patient’s urine.
Oxalates
People who have had bariatric surgery need to reduce the levels of oxalates in their diets to avoid kidney stones. Oxalates are found in a wide variety of fruits,
vegetables, and grains. Oxalate levels in food can vary depending on many factors, including where they’re grown and when they’re harvested.
In general, the following foods tend to be high in oxalates:
- Spinach
- Tea
- Cola
- Soy
- Nuts
Calcium
Oxalate levels in the urine aren’t just tied to oxalate-rich foods. Calcium levels also play a role in the amount of oxalates that end up in urine. A lack of calcium in your
diet can increase the amount of oxalates that make their way to the kidneys.
All of our bariatric surgery patients are instructed to take calcium supplements following their procedures. We recommend that patients take at least 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day. Taking calcium citrate supplements as opposed to calcium carbonate may help, as people with low levels of citrate are at increased risk for kidney stones. Please talk to the compounding pharmacy about the type of calcium in your supplement. Citrate is a compound found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. Getting the calcium you need in your diet is the best option. Foods that are rich in calcium include:
– Watercress, kale, and arugula
– Green beans
– Low-fat cheeses, milk, and other dairy products
Reducing Salt
Reducing salt is important for maintaining healthy calcium levels. Salt (sodium) causes the body to lose more calcium than normal. That calcium ends up in urine. Most people get far too much salt in their diets in the form of processed foods, so watch for sodium levels on nutrition information when you shop for groceries.
For further clarification or management of your kidney stones, please consult with your general practitioner or a nephrologist.
Read more:
Related
-
A Brief Guide to Gallstones: Types, Causes, Symptoms, Risks, Diagnosis and Treatment
With advanced diagnostics, surgery techniques, and emerging therapies, treating gallstones has become easier than before. This resource highlights...
-
5 Essential Steps to Maximise Success After Gastric Bypass Surgery in 2025
Obesity and its related health conditions are projected to keep gastric bypass surgery as one of the most...
-
Exercising After Weight Loss Surgery: The Essential 2025 Guide for Bariatric Patients
Bariatric surgery patients need to develop a balanced fitness routine to achieve and maintain weight management together with better metabolic health and overall wellness....
