5 Foods to Prevent Kidney Stones

Gyan Pareek, MD

Every year, more than three million people seek treatment for symptoms related to kidney stones. Many are familiar with the pain associated with kidney stones, but there are some surprising facts you might not know.

Facts About Kidney Stones

  1. Calcium doesn’t cause kidney stones. In moderation, eating calcium can actually help prevent stones from forming.
  2. It’s more common than you think.  One in 10 people will develop a kidney stone in their lifetime and 85 percent will develop them again within 10 years. Men develop stones more often than women.
  3. Save that stone. If you pass a stone, save it for testing. There are different types of kidney stones. By knowing what specific type of stone you had, we can tailor prevention recommendations for your individual needs.
  4. One size does not fit all.  Kidney stones can be as small as a grain of salt or as big as a golf ball.  Different treatments are recommended for the various sizes of stones.
  5. Prevention is key.  Changes in diet and medication, if indicated, are about 90 percent effective in preventing new stones from forming.

5 Foods to Prevent Kidney Stones

Certain foods can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.  Eating in moderation while maintaining a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables is encouraged. It is important to be mindful of the following foods that can lead to the formation of kidney stones in certain people: foods high in sodium, cola beverages, fast foods, processed meats, certain supplements, black tea, chocolate, strawberries, spinach, soy milk, almonds, cashews, soy beans.

The good news is there are many items you can include in your regular diet to help prevent stones from occurring.

  1. Water. Although a beverage and not necessarily a food, drinking water is the most important way to prevent kidney stones. We recommend two to three liters of water (at least 64 ounces or more) each day.
  2. Lemon. Lemon contains citric acid that stops kidney stones from forming and helps break up stones that have already formed.  For a refreshing beverage, add some fresh squeezed lemon into your water!
  4. Whole grains. Most whole grains contribute to a healthy weight which is helpful in prevention and treatment of kidney stones.
  5. Calcium. The calcium in milk and yogurt can decrease the risk of forming kidney stones.

If you have a kidney stone, we can help. The Kidney Stone Center at The Miriam Hospital is the only center of its kind in Southern New England. We use the latest technology and preventive techniques to provide comprehensive care for those who have or are recovering from kidney stones. 

Learn more here, or call us call at 401-793-5400.