What Foods Should I Avoid If I Have Kidney Stones?

The University of Virginia Health System reports that about a million people are treated for kidney stones in the United States each year. Though there are many different types of kidney stones, each of which has individual causes, some patients can decrease the likelihood of suffering another bout of kidney stones by avoiding certain foods and drinks.

Caffeine

One major cause of kidney stones is a lack of fluid passing through the kidneys to flush out the minerals that can lead to kidney stones. Drinks and foods that contain caffeine, such as soda, coffee, tea and chocolate should be avoided because they can lead to dehydration.

Oxalate

Oxalate makes calcium absorption more difficult, leading to the formation of stones. Foods high in oxalate to avoid are beans, beets, some types of berries, some green vegetables, chocolate, spinach and other greens, draft beer, eggplant, instant coffee, nuts, squash, sweet potatoes and tea.

Refined Sugar

Jackson and Siegelbaum Gastroenterology recommends that patients with kidney stones avoid foods that contain high amounts of added refined sugar.

Sodium

Sodium is another dehydrating agent to avoid; it is found most commonly in processed and canned foods.

Considerations

Those who suffer from kidney stones should consult a registered nutritionist or dietitian for advice on how to maintain nutrition while avoiding stone-promoting foods.

References

• University of Virginia Health System
• Jackson and Siegelbaum Gastroenterology