Recap of IG Live On Kidney Stone Prevention and Alkali Citrate

Did you catch our recent IG live event on kidney stone prevention? Three renowned figures in kidney health, Kidney Dietitian Melanie Betz MS, RD, CSR, FAND, and Moonstone Co-Founders Dr. David Goldfarb and Dr. Arnold Sholder came together to share their expertise. They shed light on essential aspects of kidney stone prevention, alkali citrate, and our innovative Moonstone Stone Stopper™ product line. As a thank you for joining in on the discussion, please feel free to use the discount code DIET30 at checkout for 30% off your purchase!

Understanding Stone Stopper

At the heart of the discussion was Moonstone Nutrition's Stone Stopper™ line. This alkali citrate powerhouse tool is designed to aid in preventing kidney stones. Embraced by doctors and nutritionists globally, Moonstone acts as a game-changer when traditional approaches like diet or lifestyle modifications hit roadblocks.

Available in capsules, drink mix, and gummies, Stone Stopper is also diabetic-friendly, vegan, and low in sodium.

Addressing Viewers' Concerns: Diet and Kidney Stones

Myth-Busting Oxalates and Calcium

There is a common misconception that individuals with kidney stones can't consume oxalates or calcium-rich foods. This is not true! The key is to eat a diet with adequate calcium to reduce the absorption of oxalate in your intestines. For instance, pairing a small slice of chocolate cake with a glass of milk or enjoying raspberries with yogurt. These small steps can be transformative and allow individuals to enjoy nutritious foods without fear.

It is also important to remember that a strict low oxalate diet isn’t necessary for most people with calcium oxalate stones.

Sodium Worries for Runners

Responding to a question from a runner about sodium intake, the experts clarified that while it's not a rehydration solution for runners, its magnesium content could benefit long-distance runners, reducing cramps.

The experts noted that living in a hot climate or engaging in strenuous physical activity might warrant higher sodium intake. The goal is to find balance. The recommendation was to work with a dietitian to assess individual sodium needs. These could be based on factors like climate, activity levels, and overall health.

Stone Stopper Usage and Safety

Daily Dosage and Potential Side Effects

Guidance on Moonstone Stone Stopper™ usage included starting with one pack of crystals in two cups of water (morning and evening) as a good initial dose. The versatile product is safe for daily use. While there's no risk of overdose, excessive intake may lead to laxative effects due to its magnesium content.

Alkali Citrate: The Hero Ingredient

The core ingredient in Moonstone Stone Stopper™, alkali citrate, is a substance that binds to calcium. This helps prevent calcium from binding to oxalate or phosphate. This process increases citrate levels in urine, a crucial factor in kidney stone prevention. Stone Stopper, being a high-citrate beverage, offers a convenient way to enhance fluid intake while simultaneously increasing alkali levels.

Caffeine and Alcohol: Debunking Myths

The experts clarified that caffeine from coffee and tea doesn't contribute to kidney stone formation. They advised moderation, suggesting one or two cups of caffeine per day. On the topic of alcohol, moderate consumption, as per CDC recommendations, was deemed acceptable.

The misconception that beer helps dissolve kidney stones was debunked. However, moderate beer consumption during stone passage was acknowledged as potentially therapeutic by acting as a diuretic. 

Kidney Stone Prevention for Kids and Teens

Addressing the rising concern of kidney stones in children, the experts highlighted the importance of a healthy relationship with food and constant water intake. For parents navigating this issue, ensuring that children always have water accessible was stressed as a universal preventive measure.

Kidney stone prevention is often very different in children compared to adults. Be sure to work closely with your medical team for the best approach for your child.

Customizing Diets with Stone Stopper

For those incorporating Moonstone Stone Stopper™ into their routine, the emphasis was on its role as an alkali source. The need to avoid too much non-dairy animal proteins and be sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables was highlighted. The advice centered around reducing acid-producing foods and increasing fruits and vegetables. 

Calcium Intake Recommendations

Recommendations for increasing calcium intake included three servings of dairy per day for those who could tolerate it. Dairy-free individuals can opt for plant-based milk substitutes like coconut or oat milk. The experts noted to avoid soy and almond milk due to their oxalate content.

Family History of Kidney Stones

For those without a stone but concerned about prevention, understanding family history is crucial. Out of kidney stone patients in an emergency room, 40% have a first-degree relative who has also experienced kidney stones. If there's a family history of kidney stones, especially among parents or siblings, Moonstone Stone Stopper™ can be beneficial in mitigating the risk.

Join Us Next Time

Going on IG live is always a fun way to connect with our community. We truly enjoy answer questions in real-time. This IG live event provided valuable insights and actionable tips, demystifying kidney stone prevention. We highlighted Moonstone's  Stone Stopper™ role in supporting a balanced and informed approach to kidney health. Stay tuned for more expert discussions coming soon! As a thank you for joining in on the discussion, please feel free to use the discount code DIET30 at checkout for 30% off your purchase!

Have questions for our experts? Please send them to mackenzie@moonstonenutrition.com. 

Disclaimer: This recap is a summary of the IG live event and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.