
Can eating too many persimmon cakes cause kidney stones?
I am a 32-year-old female. Recently, I have developed a strong craving for persimmon cakes and often eat several pieces every day. I heard that eating too many persimmon cakes may cause kidney stones, which worries me. Can eating excessive persimmon cakes really lead to kidney stones?

Eating too many dried persimmons may increase the risk of developing stones, although this may vary from person to person. Dried persimmons contain large amounts of tannic acid, a substance found in even higher concentrations in unripe persimmons. Under the action of gastric acid, tannic acid can combine with protein to form clots that are difficult to digest, which, when accumulated over time, may lead to the formation of gastric stones. Gastric stones can not only cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, but may also lead to gastrointestinal obstruction or other complications.
To avoid developing stones from eating dried persimmons, it is recommended to consume them in moderation and choose well-ripened dried persimmons, as they contain lower levels of tannic acid. Avoid eating large quantities on an empty stomach; it is better to consume them after meals. Avoid eating them together with high-protein foods such as milk and meat to reduce the chance of tannic acid binding with protein. Drink plenty of water to maintain adequate hydration, which helps dilute gastric juice and promote digestion. If symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, frequent urination, or urgency occur, seek medical attention promptly for appropriate evaluation and treatment.