The Top Five Benefits of Olive Oil for Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a painful reality for many people. According to the National Kidney Foundation, one in ten people will experience them at some point in their lifetime. But there is good news! Olive oil has been shown to be an effective natural remedy for kidney stones. Let’s take a look at the top five benefits of olive oil for kidney stones.
1. Prevents formation of new stones.
The main component of olive oil, oleic acid, has been shown to inhibit the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, which are the most common type of kidney stone. A study in the Journal of Urology found that participants who took oleic acid supplements had a significant decrease in the formation of calcium oxalate crystals.
2. Breaks up existing stones.
Olive oil can also help break up existing kidney stones so they can be passed more easily. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends drinking two ounces of olive oil followed by six to eight ounces of water three times a day until the stone passes.
3. Reduces pain and inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with kidney stones. A study published in BMC Urology found that olive oil was effective in reducing inflammation in rats with induced kidney stones.
4. Improves kidney function.
Olive oil has also been shown to improve overall kidney function. A study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine found that participants who took olive leaf extract had improved kidney function after eight weeks compared to those who did not take the supplement.
5. May protect against other chronic diseases.
Because olive oil is rich in antioxidants, it may also help protect against other chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that participants who consumed a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil had a lower risk of death from all causes over a period of four years compared to those who did not follow this type of diet.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a natural way to prevent or treat kidney stones, olive oil may be a good option for you. Thanks to its numerous health benefits, olive oil can help reduce pain, inflammation, and the formation of new stones. It can also improve overall kidney function. So next time you’re reaching for a home remedy for your kidney stones, consider giving olive oil a try.
