Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 glasses, or more depending on your activity level and climate. Increased fluid intake helps flush out minerals that contribute to stone formation.
Limit sodium intake. Reduce processed foods, fast food, and excessive salt added to meals. High sodium promotes calcium excretion, increasing stone risk.
Control your calcium intake. While calcium is important, excessively high intake can increase stone risk. Consult your doctor for personalized recommendations. Focus on dietary calcium sources like dairy and leafy greens, rather than supplements.
Reduce oxalate consumption. Oxalate binds with calcium, forming kidney stones. Limit foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate. Note that cooking vegetables can reduce oxalate content.
Manage your animal protein intake. High protein diets, particularly from animal sources, can increase uric acid levels, contributing to uric acid stone formation. Balance your protein intake with plant-based sources.
| Spinach | Yes | No | No |
| Rhubarb | Yes | No | No |
| Chocolate | Yes | Sometimes | No |
| Processed Meats | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fast Food | Sometimes | Yes | Yes |
Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improves overall health, potentially reducing stone risk. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Regularly monitor your urine pH. A slightly alkaline urine pH (above 6.0) can help prevent uric acid stones. Your doctor can advise on testing and appropriate strategies to maintain a healthy pH.
