What Foods Cause Kidney Stones?

When considering the foods which may cause kidney stones, there are a wide variety of known potential culprits. Everyone’s bodies are different and dietary factors which may cause kidney stones in one individual may not have the same effect on another. However, there are a few general rules of thumb which may help you to understand what foods can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.

Oxalate-Rich Foods

Oxalates, a compound found in some foods, can bind with calcium, causing stones to form in the kidneys. Many plant- and animal-based foods contain oxalates, including:

-Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages
-Dark chocolate and cocoa powder
-Nuts, such as peanuts, almonds, cashews, and walnuts
-Soy products, including tofu and soy sauce
-Most green, leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard
-Most berries and fruits, such as blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and grapes
-Rhubarb
-Seeds, including sesame, poppy, and chia
-Some root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, yams, and okra
-Organ meats, such as liver and kidney

Animal-based proteins, including red and processed meats, can also raise your risk of developing kidney stones due to their high purine content. Purines, a type of compound found in animal-based proteins, can break down into uric acid, which can form kidney stones.

High-Sodium Diet

Consuming a large amount of sodium can increase the calcium levels in the urine, thus increasing the risk of kidney stone development. High-salt foods to watch out for include:

-Canned soups and broths
-Packaged and prepared foods
-Snack foods, such as chips and popcorn
-Processed meats and cheese
-Salted nuts
-Soy sauce
-Salty gravies
-Pickles

Low-Fluid Diet

Dehydration can also increase your risk of kidney stone formation. Low levels of fluids reduce the volume of urine, allowing compounds like calcium and oxalates to concentrate and bond together, which could lead to kidney stones. To ensure adequate hydration, drink plenty of fluids, such as water, throughout the day.

Conclusion

By taking note of which foods are high in oxalates, sodium, and purines, as well as ensuring adequate hydration, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing kidney stones. Everyone’s bodies are different, so it is important to keep track of which dietary factors may be influencing your particular health. Consult with a healthcare professional to customize a dietary plan which works best for you.