Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis)

There are various types of kidney stones. Calcium oxalate stones are by far the most common, followed by uric acid stones. Some people are prone to kidney stones, but there are dietary changes that can help reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.

For calcium oxalate stones:

• Limit high oxalate foods: peanuts, rhubarb, spinach, beets, Swiss chard, chocolate, sweet potatoes
• Eat and drink calcium rich foods (e.g. dairy) with oxalate rich foods together
• Note: calcium does NOT cause calcium oxalate kidney stones
• Ensuring you get 1000-1200mg of total calcium per day actually helps to PREVENT calcium oxalate stones
• Limit high sodium (salt) foods – canned or packaged foods, restaurant foods, and fast foods

For uric acid stones:

• Limit high purine foods: red meat, organ meats, shellfish, beer/alcohol, sardines, anchovies
• Limit sugar sweetened foods/drinks, e.g. soft drinks
• Eat more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy