The consumption of lemon juice as a supplement to a normal diet can reduce the risk of a recurrence of kidney stones by up to 50 per cent. This is the conclusion of a new research study involving 200 patients who added a controlled volume of lemon juice to their normal diet over a test period of 2 years.
The study was carried out by the internationally renowned Mario Negri research institute in Ranica (Bergamo) together with hospitals in Bergamo and will be presented on 3 October 2013 at 9.30am at the institute in the Villa Camozzi, Via Camozzi, 3, Ranica (Bergamo), Italy.
The presentation under the title “The hidden powers of the lemon” is organised in cooperation with the Consorzio di Tutela del Limone di Siracusa IGP. As part of the presentation, the consortium will be explaining the special characteristics of the lemon and its contribution to health.
The aim of the research project was not only to establish what impact the consumption of lemon juice has on the formation of kidney stones but also to establish its influence on known complications such as urinary infections and colics, and whether it leads to a reduced need for hospital treatment and surgery.
Kidney stones are a common condition affecting between 10 and 12 per cent of the population. Without medical treatment the rate of recurrence is very high. In the first year after treatment, 15 to 20 per cent of patients suffer a recurrence of the condition. In the first five years after original treatment, this rate rises to 50 per cent.
Lemons are a natural source of citrate and have the highest concentration of this substance among all types of citrus fruit, as much as five times higher than in an orange. Standard medications for the treatment of kidney stones contain potassium citrate though this can only be prescribed in limited quantities because of side effects. A half cup of pure lemon juice contains the same volume of citrate and provides an effective alternative.
The research project, supported by the Consorzio di Tutela del Limone di Siracusa IGP, aims to provide specific evidence of the positive benefits of using lemon juice in the treatment of kidney stones.
