I have kidney stones what should i eat

Only a doctor can definitively diagnose the presence of a kidney stone. You should see a doctor if you have the following symptoms of a kidney stone 2 :. What to Eat When You Have Kidney Stones Most of the time, kidney stones are primarily made up of salt calcium , so it makes sense to reduce the overall intake of salt.

Guidelines Based On the Type of Kidney Stone You Have If you have had a kidney stone, understanding what type of kidney stone you had, along with making changes to the way you eat, can help you prevent a recurrence. When to Call the Doctor Only a doctor can definitively diagnose the presence of a kidney stone.

You should see a doctor if you have the following symptoms of a kidney stone 2 : You can't get comfortable or alleviate belly pain no matter what position you are in: standing, sitting, or lying down You have nausea and serious pain in your abdomen or lower back You notice blood in your urine You have a hard time trying to pee.

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Disease Information Discover the latest research about health issues often addressed by our services. However, it is important to check sodium levels in the beverage, as many drinks have a high salt content.

A person should include foods rich in calcium, especially if they consume many foods that are higher in oxalate, such as spinach. A diet low in calcium increases the risk of developing kidney stones. Calcium and oxalate bind together in the intestines, interrupting the formation of stones. Some foods to include are:. Here, learn more about calcium and its available food sources.

Fruits and vegetables are a necessary part of any diet. Increasing the number of vegetables in their diet can help a person prevent stone formation.

Fruits can be dried, frozen, or fresh. Fruits with high levels of citric acid, such as oranges and lemons, have also demonstrated a positive effect in preventing kidney stones according to a review of studies. People should become familiar with fruits and veg that have high oxalate content, including spinach, and try to limit the amount in the diet.

Alternatively, people can combine them with foods that contain high amounts of calcium. Small amounts of animal-based proteins are safe to consume.

Dietitians encourage the inclusion of plant-based protein sources in a kidney stone diet. Examples include beans, peas, and lentils.

People should discuss their individual protein needs with a doctor or a dietitian, as the requirement will vary from person to person. If a person has had calcium oxalate stones, they may wish to restrict their intake of the following foods, which are high oxalate and may increase the risk of recurrence:. The most important aspect of managing diet when looking to prevent recurrent kidney stones is speaking to a doctor or dietitian.

They will be able to identify the type of kidney stone that is developing and ways to slow or stop its development. High oxalate foods , such as nuts, seeds, beets, spinach, and buckwheat flour, can contribute to calcium oxalate stones, although this does not mean that people need to exclude them from the diet completely.

A high protein diet can contribute to the formation of calcium phosphate stones. A high sodium intake and dehydration can contribute to uric acid and cystine stones.

Some foods contain certain chemicals or compounds that can influence the production of kidney stones, particularly if a person regularly eats them in high amounts. Which steps you take depend on the type of stone you have, but they may include: Drinking extra water and other liquids Eating more of some foods and cutting back on other foods Taking medicines to help prevent stones Taking medicines to help you pass a stone anti-inflammatory drugs, alpha-blockers You may be asked to try to catch your kidney stone.

What is a Kidney Stone? There are four major types of kidney stones. Calcium is the most common type of stone. Calcium can combine with other substances, such as oxalate the most common substance , to form the stone.

A uric acid stone may form when your urine contains too much acid. A struvite stone may form after an infection in your urinary system. Cystine stones are rare.

The disease that causes cystine stones runs in families. Water is best. You can also drink ginger ale, lemon-lime sodas, and fruit juices. Drink enough liquids throughout the day to make at least 2 quarts 2 liters of urine every 24 hours.

Drink enough to have light-colored urine. Dark yellow urine is a sign you are not drinking enough. Diet and Calcium Stones. Follow these guidelines if you have calcium kidney stones: Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water.

Eat less salt. Chinese and Mexican food, tomato juice, regular canned foods, and processed foods are often high in salt. Look for low-salt or unsalted products. Have only 2 or 3 servings a day of foods with a lot of calcium, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, oysters, and tofu. Eat lemons or oranges, or drink fresh lemonade. Citrate in these foods prevents stones from forming. Limit how much protein you eat. Choose lean meats. Eat a low-fat diet.

Watch out for antacids that contain extra calcium. Ask your provider which antacids are safe for you to take.