Kidney stones can be both a painful and dangerous medical condition. Calcium-based kidney stones make up the majority of kidney stone cases and are typically the most painful type of stone. Individuals at risk for calcium kidney stones should consult their health care provider to learn how to best take steps to avoid these stones.
Genetics
Heredity plays a substantial, though not fully understood role in the development of calcium kidney stones. According to the National Institutes of Diabetes and Dietary and Kidney Diseases, individuals with a family history of calcium kidney stones are more likely to develop these stones than those with no family history.
Oxalate-Rich Foods
Calcium stones form when calcium in the kidneys combines with oxalate in the urinary tract. Oxalate is found in many traditionally healthy foods and can contribute to kidney stone formation. The Oxalosis and Hyperoxaluria Foundation recommends that individuals at risk for calcium kidney stones avoid oxalate-rich foods such as chard, spinach, beets, soy bean crackers, black tea and chocolate.
Calcium supplements
According to the NIDDK, calcium-rich foods such as dairy products do not contribute much to calcium kidney stones. The use of calcium supplements, however, may increase one's risk for calcium kidney stones. Individuals at risk for calcium kidney stones should avoid calcium supplements, as well as vitamin D supplements that help the body to absorb calcium. Calcium-carbonate based antacids should also be avoided.
Acidic Urine
Overly acidic urine promotes calcium to precipitate with other compounds in the urinary tract to form solid kidney stones. Acidic urine can be brought on by a high-protein diet. Low water intake can also contribute to urine acidity and stone formation. The NIDDK recommends that those at risk for calcium kidney stones limit meat products and also drink at least 12 glasses of water per day. Diabetes and obesity also increase urine acidity as a result of insulin resistance, putting individuals with these conditions at risk for calcium kidney stones.
