Kidney stone prevention

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/

Thebest way to reduce your risk of stone formation is to maintain a healthy lifestyle via diet, weight loss and excercise.

Share this page