Kidney stones are hard masses that form when substances in the urine crystallize out of solution. As the stone moves through the urinary tract and bladder, it produces pain and blocks the flow of urine. Kidney stones should always be treated under the direction of a doctor. Most stones pass within a few days and do not require surgery.
Testing
You will need to know the type of kidney stone that your body produces to make effective dietary changes. Your doctor may order a 24-hour urine collection test for this purpose. After you collect your urine, it will be tested for the levels of calcium, sodium, uric acid, oxalate, citrate, and creatinine. This information, combined with the urine volume and acidity, will help your doctor make recommendations.
Hydration
If you have a kidney stone, the most important change to make is in your consumption of water. You should drink 2 or 3 quarts of water daily to aid the stone's passage through the urinary system. Even after the stone passes, continue drinking enough water to make at least two quarts of urine each day. This dilutes the concentration of salts in your urine and helps reduce your risk of recurring stones.
Oxalates
The most common type of kidney stone is made from crystals of calcium oxalate. If your body tends to produce these stones, your doctor may recommend a diet of low oxalate foods. This means you should avoid the high oxalate foods including spinach, rhubarb, beets, strawberries, nuts, chocolate, tea, coffee, sodas, wheat bran. You may be able to eat small amounts of foods with moderate oxalates such as berries, Concord grapes, tangerines, wheat germ, baked beans, tofu, peanut butter, sweet potatoes, eggplant, leeks, summer squash and draft beer. If you do consume oxalates, add an additional glass of water to help dilute your urine.
Calcium
Many types of kidney stones contain calcium, particularly in the form of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. Most individuals should not eliminate calcium-rich foods, such as milk and other dairy products, from their diet. However, taking calcium as a supplement is not recommended. The form of calcium in supplements appears to contribute to kidney stone formation in people who are susceptible.
