Do I need to worry about gallstones and kidney stones?

The best way for most folks to prevent kidney stones is to stay well hydrated *all the time*. When we get dehydrated the materials dissolved in urine become more concentrated and can crystallize into kidney stones. A tendency to become dehydrated is one of the few problems that almost all J-pouchers have to be mindful of.

Gallstones are common with or without a J-pouch. Perhaps there’s an association, but I’m not aware of a significant one.

I was advised kidney stones are a risk with J Pouch patients, but I never had any kidney or gall stones in 31 years with a J Pouch. As Scott said, stay hydrated, and you don't need to worry. My hydration hygiene is pretty good- I buy a 24 pack of bottled water every week, and drink electrolyte beverages. Doing these things certainly will reduce the risk.

@Scott F posted:

The best way for most folks to prevent kidney stones is to stay well hydrated *all the time*. When we get dehydrated the materials dissolved in urine become more concentrated and can crystallize into kidney stones. A tendency to become dehydrated is one of the few problems that almost all J-pouchers have to be mindful of.

Gallstones are common with or without a J-pouch. Perhaps there’s an association, but I’m not aware of a significant one.

Thanks a lot, Scott! I appreciate you answering every question I have, you should be paid for your activity. Yeah, I read on the fb grouo that many people have problems with kidney stone and many of them stayed well hydrated. I assume oxalates and many other factors like genetics are at play as well?

Must be a ton of kidney stones from people doing ramadan.

@CTBarrister posted:

I was advised kidney stones are a risk with J Pouch patients, but I never had any kidney or gall stones in 31 years with a J Pouch. As Scott said, stay hydrated, and you don't need to worry. My hydration hygiene is pretty good- I buy a 24 pack of bottled water every week, and drink electrolyte beverages. Doing these things certainly will reduce the risk.

So comforting to hear! Thank you

Individual factors matter a lot, and oxalate metabolism is complicated, but basic chemistry has the last word. Lots of people think they are well hydrated but aren’t, and some are just unlucky.