Preventing Kidney Stones: A Quick Patient Guide
Kidney stones are painful mineral deposits that form when substances like calcium, oxalate, or uric acid build up in the kidneys. The good news? Many stones can be prevented by making simple lifestyle and nutrition changes — especially if you’ve had one before.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones form when your urine becomes too concentrated, allowing minerals to stick together and solidify. This is more likely to happen when:
- You don’t drink enough water
- You eat too much salt, animal protein, or sugar
- You have certain medical conditions
- You take specific supplements or medications
Once you’ve had a stone, your chances of developing more increase — which makes prevention especially important.
Hydration: Your #1 Defense
- Maintain adequate hydration. Ask your healthcare provider for specific recommendations tailored to you.
- Your goal is to produce pale yellow urine — a sign you’re well-hydrated
- Water is the gold standard for maintaining hydration
💡 Tip: Spread your fluid intake throughout the day.
Smart Food Choices
Different types of stones may require different diet adjustments, but these are good general habits:
✅What to Include
- Fruits and vegetables: Especially those high in citrate (e.g., lemons, oranges)
- Calcium-rich foods: Like yogurt, milk, or fortified plant milks (calcium in foods helps prevent stones)
- Whole grains, beans, nuts (in moderation), and plant-based proteins
🚫 What to Limit
- High-sodium foods: Processed snacks, restaurant meals, canned soups
- Animal protein: Excess meat, poultry, and eggs can raise stone risk
- Sugary drinks and added sugars: Especially cola and sweet tea
- High-oxalate foods (for some): Spinach, rhubarb, beets, almonds, and chocolate
🍽 Always pair high-oxalate foods with calcium-rich foods to help balance things out.
Other Helpful Strategies
- Stay active: Regular movement (as tolerated, and approved by your healthcare provider) supports better digestion and kidney function
- Review all supplements with your healthcare provider: Ask your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements
- Monitor your urine: Cloudy, dark, or painful urination should be evaluated
- Follow up with your care team: Especially after a stone or if you’re at higher risk
If you’ve passed a stone before, ask your provider whether metabolic testing or a stone analysis can help guide your prevention plan.
Key Takeaways
- Hydration is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones
- Limit salt, sugar, and animal proteins in your diet, as guided by your healthcare provider
- Ask your healthcare team about personalized testing or prevention plans
- Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.