What to Eat (and Avoid) to Prevent Kidney Stones

Prevent Kidney Stones: Drink Plenty of Water Daily

Reduce Salt and Animal Protein

Keep Calcium in Your Diet

Kidney stones are not only extremely painful but also a warning sign that something in your diet or lifestyle needs adjustment.

The good news is that simple changes in what you eat and drink can make a big difference.

Based on recommendations from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and the National Kidney Foundation, here are practical tips to help protect your kidneys.

Kidney Stones: How to Prevent Them

Kidney stone prevention diet can help protect your kidneys – PHOTO: Shutterstock

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is the most important step in any kidney stone prevention diet.

Aim for 6 to 8 glasses of water daily, unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

Proper hydration dilutes the substances that form stones and helps your body flush them out.

Avoid excessive sugary or caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you. If you exercise or live in a hot climate, increase your water intake.

2. Control Your Sodium Intake

Too much salt is one of the kidneys’ biggest enemies.

Sodium increases calcium in the urine, raising the risk of kidney stones.

Reduce processed foods, deli meats, fast food, and canned soups.

Choose products labeled “low sodium” or “no salt added.”

Whenever possible, cook at home and season with herbs or spices instead of salt.

Tip: One teaspoon of salt equals over 2,300 mg of sodium, which is the maximum recommended daily amount.

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3. Don’t Cut Out Calcium Completely

Contrary to popular belief, calcium doesn’t cause kidney stones — it actually helps prevent them.

Consuming the right amount of calcium stops oxalate from being overly absorbed.

Include two to three servings daily of calcium-rich foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, or fortified plant-based drinks.

If you’re lactose intolerant, there are lactose-free options or supplements available under medical supervision.

4. To Protect Your Kidneys, Moderate Animal Protein

Diets high in meat, fish, or eggs can increase uric acid and reduce urinary citrate, both of which promote stone formation.

Replace some of your animal protein with plant-based sources like beans, lentils, or tofu.

Beans, peas, and seeds provide vegetable protein with low oxalate content.

Talk to a nutritionist about the ideal balance between animal and plant proteins for your health.

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5. Be Careful with High-Oxalate Foods

If your doctor has identified calcium oxalate stones, limit certain foods:

Spinach

Rhubarb

Almonds

Beets

Wheat bran

Don’t eliminate them completely — balance is key. Combine them with calcium-rich foods to reduce oxalate absorption.

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6. Follow the DASH Diet: Fruits and Vegetables Matter

Fruits and vegetables help alkalinize urine and reduce the risk of kidney stones.

The DASH diet (originally designed to lower high blood pressure) is also effective in protecting kidney health.

Eat five servings daily of fruits and vegetables, and limit added sugars and saturated fats.

7. Watch Your Weight and Habits

Kidney Stone Prevention Diet – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Being overweight is a key risk factor for kidney stones.

A balanced, high-fiber, low-sodium diet can help maintain a healthy weight and improve kidney function.

Avoid overusing supplements like vitamin C or “detox” products high in oxalate.

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8. Consult a Professional

Each type of kidney stone has a different cause.

Ask your doctor for a 24-hour urine test to identify the reasons behind your stones and adjust your diet accordingly.

A dietitian specialized in kidney health can help you plan your meals safely and effectively.

Preventing kidney stones starts with simple daily habits: drink plenty of water, reduce salt, keep calcium in your diet, and focus on fresh, balanced meals.

With small lifestyle adjustments, you can protect your kidneys and prevent painful complications.

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Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace medical or nutritional advice.
If you experience symptoms, have a history of kidney stones, or are making dietary changes, always consult a doctor or registered dietitian first.

Sources: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) / National Kidney Foundation.