Written by Emma Wilson RDN student, Reviewed by Danielle Starmer, RD LDN
Overview
Kidney stones are hard masses created from crystals in your urine. Most people have chemicals that prevent kidney stone formation; however, some people are more prone to their development. There are many different forms of kidney stones, and 80% of all kidney stone cases are calcium oxalate kidney stones. If you have frequent kidney stones, contact your healthcare professional and consider working with a Registered Dietitian to guide you through appropriate diet and lifestyle changes.
How are they created and how to prevent?
Oxalate is found in many common foods, including sweet potatoes, chocolate, and spinach. Someone who forms calcium oxalate kidney stones may benefit from limiting high oxalate foods. If you are prone to eating high oxalate foods, combine them with a high calcium food or drink like milk, cheese, or yogurt. The recommended calcium intake to prevent kidney stone formation is 1,000-1,200 mg per day. This is around 3 servings of dairy products at meal times.
Another common way calcium oxalate kidney stones are created is through excess sodium intake. High levels of sodium cause our bodies to excrete more calcium into the urine, creating a higher chance of kidney stone formation. You can lower your sodium intake by adding low-sodium foods like berries, chicken, and Greek yogurt. Having a serving of Greek yogurt with your breakfast or as a snack helps increase your calcium intake and is low in sodium! Examples of high-sodium foods that may need to be limited are canned or processed foods and fast food. Another helpful tip to reduce sodium intake is to not add additional table salt to food once you are done preparing the meal. If you are prone to calcium oxalate kidney stones, try to keep sodium intake under 1,500 mg per day.
Hydration
Water is essential not only for hydration but also for optimal digestion, neurological function, muscle contraction, and circulation. Staying hydrated is the best thing you can do to prevent kidney stone formation. The recommended amount of fluids for females is 9 cups (74 ounces or 2.2 liters) and 13 cups (101 ounces or 3 liters) for males. This will ensure you are producing enough urine to flush any excess calcium. Speak with your healthcare provider for more specific hydration recommendations. Try to avoid sugary sodas, sweetened tea, and grapefruit juice.
Download this FREE Calcium Oxalate Kidney Stone Handout for more info!
If you frequent kidney stones, it's time you met with a Registered Dietitian to feel your best all the time. Schedule a free 30 minute discovery call with Danielle Starmer RDN to learn more. Danielle has counseled hundreds of patients with Chronic Kidney Disease, kidney stone formation, and many other conditions. Visit our website for more information.
Sources:
National Kidney Foundation. Kidney Stone Diet Plan and Prevention. https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/kidney-stone-diet-plan-and-prevention
DISCLAIMER: This post is purely informational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or qualified health care provider with any medical concerns or questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it due to information found online.
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