Diet Modifications for Prevention of Calcium Oxalate Kidney Stones

Published:  04/11/2015

Studies have shown that being overweight increases the risk of uric acid and calcium kidney stones.

Drinking water and other fluids is the most important thing a person can do to prevent kidney stones.

People who have had a kidney stone should drink enough water and other fluids to make at least 2 quarts of urine each day.

Diets high in salt, or sodium, can increase the excretion of calcium into the urine and thus increase the risk of calcium containing kidney stones. Reducing salt intake is preferred to reducing calcium intake.

Calcium from food can help prevent kidney stone formation and help maintain bone density.

Calcium supplements should be taken with meals so the calcium can bind with the oxalate in food.

Higher potassium intake can also lower the risk for calcium stones.

Eating foods containing calcium reduces oxalate in the urine. Calcium binds oxalate in the digestive tract so it is not excreted into the urine.

Most people with calcium oxalate stones should not avoid oxalate-rich foods unless the doctor specifically recommends a restrictive diet. Some studies, in fact, indicate that eating foods containing oxalates and calcium together may reduce the risk of stones.

Limit these foods that are high in oxalic acid:  beets, soy, black tea, chocolate, cocoa, dried figs, ground pepper, lamb, nuts, parsley, poppy seeds, rhubarb, sorrel, spinach, and Swiss chard.

Foods rich in animal proteins-such as meat, eggs, and fish-contain purines and can increase the risk of uric acid stones and calcium stones. Choose nonanimal protein sources, such as legumes.

More information about the dietary changes to minimize the risk of kidney stones.