Kidney stones are common in Australia and affect both men and women. If you have had a kidney stone in the past, you are at a higher risk of developing more in the future, so prevention is very important.
The following guidelines may assist you in preventing further kidney stones.
1. Drink plenty of fluids
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water—drinking fluids helps to flush out the kidneys and dilute stone forming substances, reducing stone formation
- Aim for at least 2 litres of water in winter and 3 litres in summer, spread evenly throughout the day, more in outdoor or hotter climates. You should aim for a 1.5 litres output/day of pale yellow urine
- You may wish to add lemon/lime juice to your water
- Fruit juices, soft drinks, caffeine and alcohol should be consumed in moderation, and avoid drinking Coca-Cola
2. Decrease salt intake
- Salt increases the amount of calcium produced in your urine which may result in stone formation
- Avoid adding salt at the table or in cooking
- Minimise processed, take away/restaurant foods as these are high in salt
- Choose foods with “low or no added salt” options. 150mg or less per serve is a useful guideline
3. Dietary requirements
- You should maintain the daily recommended calcium intake as this is important for general bone health, reduced intake may actually increase your risk of stones
- Reducing oxalate in your diet can help by limiting foods high in oxalate such as spinach, beetroot, nuts, chocolate and strawberries to name a few
- Limit amount of animal protein from meat ,chicken, fish and eggs
- Maintain a healthy diet of fresh fruit and vegetables
Further information and useful reference materials can be found at: kidney.niddk.nih.gov/KUDiseases/pubs/kidneystonediet/
The best way to reduce your risk of stone formation is to maintain a healthy lifestyle via diet, weight loss and exercise.
Mater acknowledges consumer consultation in the development of this patient information.
Mater Doc Num: PI-CLN-420049
Last modified 09/8/2017.
Consumers were consulted in the development of this patient information.
Last consumer engagement date: 06/7/2015
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