There are different types of kidney stones, and according to each case, the feeding advice is different, all with the purpose of promoting the well-being of the person suffering from it. In this post, we will comment on some nutritional advice for those who suffer from kidney calcium stones that are usually the most common.

As we know, kidney calcium stones are formations of salts and minerals that, instead of being dissolved in the urine, to facilitate expulsion, accumulate and crystallize in the kidneys. Calcium stones are created by a chemical compound called calcium oxalate, a natural body compound that is eliminated with urine.

The calcium that is not used by our body is sent to the kidneys for elimination, and it is there where it combines with oxalate to form calcium oxalate. It can also combine with phosphates and carbonates (calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, respectively).

The good news is that there are measures which you can take to reduce the formation of kidney calcium stones. This can be done by avoiding the intake of certain foods high in oxalates.

Foods High in Oxalates

Foods that are high in oxalates include,

Fruits:

• Canned fruit salad
• Nuts, almonds, peanuts
• Black grapes
• Blackberries
• Strawberries
• Currants, in their various types
• Raisins
• Raspberries

Vegetables:

• Rhubarb
• Celery
• Spinach
• Beet
• Leek
• Pumpkin
• Eggplant
• Sweet potatoes
• Escarole
• Canned green beans
• Parsley

Drinks:

• Draft beer
• Green, black and instant coffee
• Instant coffee

Others:

• Tomato soup, vegetable soup
• Beans in tomato sauce
• Chocolate (all kinds)
• Wheat grits
• Cocoa
• Whole wheat foods
• Turmeric (in high quantities)
• Corn (in any form)
• Jams (all kinds)

Additional Tips

• Reduce additional table salt intake at meals.
• Drink plenty of fluids, mainly purified water. Try that your consumption is 2 liters daily.
• Minimize the amount of meat protein you eat.
• Prefer lean meats, if any.
• Avoid consuming canned, processed products. Opt for fresh, whole foods.
• Do not consume additional calcium carbonate, vitamin D, and / or vitamin C (ascorbic acid), if your doctor has not prescribed it.
• Avoid intake of antacids that contain extra amounts of calcium, first, ask which one would be right for you.

Although it seems contradictory, it is essential that you consume a good amount of calcium (especially women) that your body needs and gets from daily food. The calcium consumed (naturally from food) should not be limited because this could favor the formation of kidney stones.

What should be monitored is the type of food that we consume. In this case, the foods that you need to avoid include those that have a high content of oxalates. However, be sure that eat other types of foods rich in calcium, especially low-oxalate vegetables (collard greens, spinach, kale, bok choy).

How to Maintain Good Urinary Health?

• Exercise regularly
• Include in your life healthy habits
• Try to drink at least 2L of purified water per day
• Adopt a healthy and balanced diet

Kidney calcium stones can be extremely painful and can hinder your daily activities. Therefore, it is essential that you take preventive measures to deter their formation. And remember, it’s always good to be a little cautious than having to bear the excruciating pain caused by these stones.