Researchers recently investigated the potential benefits of dietary flavanone intake in reducing the risk of urolithiasis. Flavanones are a crucial subgroup of flavonoids found primarily in citrus fruits. These compounds offer various health advantages, including metabolic regulation and potent antioxidant properties. This research specifically aimed to understand how these nutrients affect the prevalence of kidney stones in the United States adult population.

Analysts utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) covering the periods 2007-2010 and 2017-2018. They included 9,790 participants in the final analysis. Approximately 9.67% of these individuals reported a history of kidney stones. The research focused on specific flavanones like eriodictyol, hesperetin, and naringenin. Participants provided dietary details through two 24-hour recall interviews, while questionnaires identified their stone history.

The Impact of Dietary Flavanone Intake on Renal Health

The results showed that total flavanones and naringenin have a negative correlation with stone prevalence. Specifically, individuals in the highest intake group for naringenin had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.89. Furthermore, restricted cubic spline plots revealed a notable negative linear association. This indicates that as dietary flavanone intake increases, the risk of developing kidney stones consistently decreases. These findings highlight a promising non-pharmacological approach to improving renal health.

Subgroup analyses further confirmed these trends, showing no significant interactions across different categories. This suggests that the protective benefits of flavanones apply broadly to various patient profiles. Consequently, medical educators and clinicians should consider dietary counseling as a preventive tool. Increasing the consumption of citrus-derived flavanones may lower oxidative stress in renal tissues and inhibit crystal formation. Therefore, clinicians might recommend citrus fruits as a simple dietary modification for stone prevention.

How does naringenin specifically help in preventing kidney stones?

Naringenin exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests it helps reduce oxidative stress in renal tissues and may inhibit the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, which are the most common type of kidney stones.

Are there specific foods recommended for increasing flavanone levels?

Yes, citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are the primary sources of flavanones like naringenin and hesperetin. Incorporating these fruits or their juices into a daily diet can significantly boost your flavanone intake.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a professional opinion. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Liang H et al. Relationship between dietary flavanone intake and kidney stones in U.S. adults: insight from NHANES. Br J Nutr. 2026 May 04. doi: 10.1017/S0007114526107326. PMID: 42071263.

He J, et al. The Protective Role of Dietary Polyphenols in Urolithiasis: Insights into Antioxidant Effects and Mechanisms of Action. PMC. 2023.

Gozotto AP, et al. Naringenin's Effects on Diuresis and Prevention of Urolithiasis in Hypertensive Rats. Chem Biodivers. 2024.