Fact Check: Can muskmelon peel water with sugar remove stones from body in 30 minutes?
An Instagram post claims that muskmelon peel water with sugar removes stones from the body in 30 minutes. The user's claim is FALSE.
Claim
In an Instagram post, it is claimed that muskmelon peel water with sugar removes stones from the body. The post by the user healthdoj reads, "Boil watermelon peel in water, strain it, and mix in a spoonful of sugar. Drink it, and you won't believe it—within half an hour, the stone may dissolve and pass out."
The post has 127,567 likes and can be accessed here.
Fact Check
The claim is FALSE. There are various types of stones found in the body, but the post does not specify them. Additionally, gallstones can only be removed through surgical procedures, and kidney stones cannot be eliminated within 30 minutes.
The most common types of stones are found in the kidney and gall bladder.
What are Gallstones?
Gallstones, or cholelithiasis, are solid deposits that form within the gallbladder or biliary tract, typically due to an imbalance in the components of bile, a fluid produced by the liver to aid digestion. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, these stones can vary in size from tiny grains to larger masses, often leading to pain and complications if not treated.
Gallstones generally fall into two main categories. The most common type, cholesterol gallstones, form when cholesterol levels in bile become excessively high, causing it to solidify. Pigment gallstones, on the other hand, are primarily composed of bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. These stones are more common in individuals with certain liver conditions or blood disorders, which can elevate bilirubin levels.
How are gallstones treated?
When it comes to treatment, there are both surgical and non-surgical routes available, depending on the patient’s symptoms, the size of the stones, and their location. It is essential to note that removing the gallbladder is a key component in effectively treating gallstones.
Cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder, is a common approach, with two main types: laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a minimally invasive procedure, and open cholecystectomy, typically reserved for cases where severe inflammation or infection is present. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a non-surgical route frequently used to remove gallstones lodged in the common bile duct, sparing the gallbladder itself. In rare cases, shock wave lithotripsy—a procedure that uses shock waves to shatter gallstones into smaller fragments—is utilized, often in conjunction with ursodiol to enhance the breakdown process.
What are kidney stones?
A kidney stone is a solid, pebble-like mass that can develop in one or both kidneys when mineral levels are elevated. Also referred to as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis, these stones can form from substances such as calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, cystine, struvite, magnesium ammonium phosphate, and uric acid.
Kidney stones are also linked to a higher risk of chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal failure, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
What are the treatment strategies for kidney stones?
There is a range of treatment options for kidney stones, offering effective relief from pain and reducing the risk of complications. Shock Wave Lithotripsy employs shock waves to shatter stones into smaller fragments, making it easier for them to pass through the urinary tract. Another method, Cystoscopy and Ureteroscopy, involves inserting instruments through the urethra to locate stones in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys, allowing for either removal or fragmentation. For larger stones, Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy is frequently recommended; this procedure uses a small incision in the back to insert a nephroscope directly into the kidney, facilitating the stone’s removal, often with laser assistance to break it down further. These minimally invasive approaches provide tailored solutions, aiding quicker recovery and enhancing patient outcomes.
What are the nutritional benefits of Muskmelon?
Muskmelon is a nutrient-rich fruit packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which may help in boosting immunity, and vitamin A, which supports eye health and skin rejuvenation. The fruit contains significant amounts of potassium, aiding in heart health and maintaining blood pressure, along with calcium and boron, essential for bone strength. Muskmelon also provides selenium, zinc, sodium, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese, which contribute to normal physiological functions and a strong defense mechanism. Additionally, its high water content keeps the body hydrated and supports digestion.
Can muskmelon peel water with sugar remove stones from the body in 30 minutes?
While staying hydrated is crucial for preventing kidney stones, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that muskmelon peel water with sugar has any effect on kidney stones. In fact, research suggests that excessive sugar consumption may increase the risk of kidney stones. Additionally, gallstones cannot be dissolved through such remedies, as they typically require medical or surgical intervention.
Evidence suggests that high sugar intake may contribute to kidney stone formation. A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that a greater percentage of energy derived from added sugars is significantly associated with a higher prevalence of kidney stones.
Similarly, Research also shows a link between sugar-sweetened beverages and an increased risk of kidney stones. A study by Pietro Manuel Ferraro et. al. concluded that consuming sugar-sweetened soda and punch is associated with a higher likelihood of stone formation.
Therefore, the user's claim is false. It is important to note that excessive sugar consumption increases the risk of kidney stones, and gallstones cannot be eliminated without surgical intervention.
In a conversation with the Medical Dialogues, Dr Arun P, Associate Consultant, Gastroenterology, KIMSHEALTH explained about the gall stones and he said, "Muskmelon contains dietary fiber, carbohydrates, minerals, and electrolytes. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that muskmelon peeling water with sugar can remove gallbladder stones from the body. The only definitive treatment for symptomatic gallbladder stones is cholecystectomy, which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder."
Dr Vinayak M, Consultant Department of Nephrology, KIMSHEALTH, talked about Kidney stones and he said, "Fruits, in general, are rich in citrate and potassium, two substances considered to inhibit renal stone formation. Muskmelon, in particular, is high in both of these, as well as water, and has a low glycemic index, meaning it does not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. Muskmelon peel water, on the other hand, may lack these beneficial ingredients, and the added sugar could worsen the chances of new stone formation. Therefore, muskmelon may be a better choice than the peel water. However, it is important to note that excess sugar consumption is also linked with increased risk of kidney stones. Most importantly, while these factors may help prevent new stone formation, they may not have much effect on already existing renal stones."
Dr Sachin Choudhary, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), FMAS, FIGS, Assistant Professor (General Surgery), Army College of Medical Sciences further added, "There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that muskmelon peel water with sugar can remove kidney stones. Kidney stones form due to mineral deposits, and their treatment depends on size and composition. While staying hydrated is essential for kidney health, specific dietary changes and medical interventions—such as increased citrate intake or prescribed medications—are more effective. Large stones may require lithotripsy or surgical removal. Relying on unverified remedies can delay proper treatment and worsen the condition. Always consult a doctor for appropriate management."
Medical Dialogues Final Take
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that muskmelon peel water with sugar can dissolve or remove kidney or gallbladder stones. While muskmelon is hydrating and contains beneficial nutrients, it does not have proven medicinal properties for stone dissolution. Further, excess sugar and sugary drink consumption is linked with increased risks of kidney stone formation. Moreover, it is important to note that gallstones can be removed with surgical
Hence, the claim by the user is FALSE.
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