Hormonal
Obesity increases the risk of nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) through multiple mechanisms including lower urine pH, increased urinary oxalate, uric acid, sodium, and phosphate excretion, and insulin resistance-induced acidic urine.
If you are overweight, you are at higher risk for kidney stones due to changes in your urine chemistry caused by insulin resistance and diet. To reduce this risk, focus on weight management and a balanced diet that isn't excessively high in protein or sodium. Be aware that some surgical weight loss procedures can actually increase stone risk, so discuss this with your doctor.
Obesity is associated with a number of risk factors contributing to the higher incidence and prevalence of nephrolithiasis. Higher body weight is associated with lower urine pH and increased urinary oxalate, uric acid, sodium and phosphate excretion. The insulin resistance characteristic of obesity may also predispose to nephrolithiasis through its impact on tubular Na-H exchanger and ammoniagenesis, and the promotion of an acidic milieu.
Why this rating
Supported by population-based studies showing associations between BMI, weight gain, waist circumference, and kidney stone incidence.
Source
Obesity and Kidney Disease: Hidden Consequences of the Epidemic
Elena Zakharova · Urology & Nephrology Open Access Journal · 2017
DOI 10.15406/unoaj.2017.04.00127
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