Men are two to three times more likely to develop kidney stones compared to women, according to nutrition dietitian and homeopathic pharmacist Dr Archita Mahajan. She highlighted that lifestyle habits, diet patterns, and biological factors significantly contribute to the higher risk among men.
Dr Mahajan explained that men aged between 20 and 30 years are particularly vulnerable if they consume insufficient water. Producing less than one litre (32 ounces) of urine daily due to low fluid intake can increase the chances of kidney stone formation.
She noted that men generally consume higher amounts of animal protein and salt, which raises the risk of stone formation. However, diet alone is not responsible; biological and genetic factors also play an important role. Men are more prone to early obesity and metabolic disorders such as diabetes, which increase calcium and oxalate levels in urine — key contributors to kidney stones.
According to Dr Mahajan, excessive intake of animal-based proteins such as red meat, chicken, eggs, and fish can increase the risk of both calcium and uric acid stones. These foods raise calcium and uric acid levels in urine while reducing citrate, a chemical that helps prevent stone formation.
She also warned that consuming more than 6 grams of salt daily significantly increases risk because high sodium intake forces kidneys to release more calcium into urine, leading to calcium-based stones.
The most common type of kidney stone is calcium oxalate. Individuals prone to such stones should limit foods rich in oxalate, a naturally occurring compound found in many plant-based foods.
Hormonal differences and urine composition also contribute to higher risk in men. Uric acid stones are more common among males, especially when urine becomes highly acidic or contains excessive uric acid.
Dr Mahajan advised maintaining a balanced diet and drinking adequate water and fluids daily as the most effective preventive measures against kidney stones.
