When the urine is too rich in certain mineral salts, a stone may form in the kidney. This occurrence occasionally follows a urinary tract infection. If the stone moves out of the kidney and lodges in the ureter, the duct to the bladder, it causes waves of intense pain, known as renal colic. In most of the cases the cause of kidney stones is the excess of oxalic acid. The oxalic acid forms stones of calcium oxalate. In some cases it may result from excess uric acid.

In order to avoid stone formation, you should take plenty of water everyday. Water based fluids should be taken very frequently. Avoid food containing animal protein, fat and added sugar. Drinking alcohol and smoking increases the chances of stone formation and hence you should avoid alcoholic drinks and smoking. Consumption of calcium is also very helpful in preventing formation of stone. Calcium combines with oxalate in the intestine and so prevents the absorption of pure oxalate.

In case you are suffering from the problem of uric acid stone, you are advised to avoid foods containing fish, beans, spinach, meat, whole grains, cauliflower etc. In case of calcium oxalate stone, you should avoid foods containing grapefruit, cucumber, celery, parsley, nuts, strong tea, sweet potato etc. Increase the consumption of potassium citrate, magnesium and vitamin B. You can take supplement of these nutrients also. In case you find blood in you urine and you experience severe intermittent pain you should consult a doctor immediately. Drink at least 2 liters of water everyday. Keep drinking water based fluids frequently.

Food containing vitamin B, calcium, potassium, magnesium is very helpful in preventing stone formation. Corn silk tablets are very helpful in preventing stone formation. You can also take tea made from buchu. A regular consumption of this tea 3 to 4 times a day will effectively avoid the stone formation.