Although there are different types of kidney stones and different metabolic causes for stones, the most common type of stone is calcium oxalate. The following are basic guidelines for people with this type of stone to help prevent their recurrence. Once the stone is there, we cannot dissolve it, but we usually can help prevent growth of the stone and formation of new stones.
- By far the most important aspect in preventing stones of any kind is high fluid intake.
- Always drink fluids within three hours of a meal.
- Whenever walking by a drinking fountain, drink water.
- Water is the best f luid to drink, generally 8-10 glasses/day.
- Colas, teas, coffee and fermented liquids, such as beer, are the worst fluids to drink.
- For those with recurrent stones, urine output should be about one gallon per 24 hours.
- Limit salt intake.
- Limit meat, fish or fowl to six to eight ounces a day, and eggs to one per day.
- The following are lists of foods high in oxalate. The ones listed as high should be avoided and the moderate ones should be limited to not more than one serving per day.
HIGH To Be Avoided
| Beets | Nuts |
| Beet Tops | Parsley |
| Black Tea | Poke |
| Chenopodium | Poppy Seeds |
| Chocolate | Pursland |
| Cocoa | Rhubarb |
| Dried Figs | Sorrel |
| Ground Pepper | Spinach |
| Lamb Quarters | Swiss Chard |
| Lime Peel |
MODERATE To Be Eaten Sparingly
| Beans (green and wax) | Gooseberries |
| Blackberries | Lemon Peel |
| Blueberries | Okra |
| Carrots | Onions (green) |
| Celery | Orange |
| Coffee (roasted) | Orange Peel |
| Concord Grapes | Peppers (green) |
| Currents (red) | Raspberries (black) |
| Dandelion Greens | Strawberries |
| Endive | Sweet Potatoes |
All other foods may be used as desired
A well balanced diet should include:
- MEAT/CHEESE/FISH/FOWL = 1+ servings
- EGGS = 1 serving
- VEGETABLES = 2+ besides potato
- FRUITS = 2+ (at least one raw citrus or tomato often)
- CEREAL/BREAD = 2+ (whole grain value or enriched)
- BUTTER = 2+ tbsp.