What to eat and avoid if you have kidney stones?
 

For individuals prone to kidney stones, particularly calcium oxalate stones, it's important to be mindful of diet. The article highlights that while oxalate is a key component in stone formation, a person's diet doesn't need to be completely free of high-oxalate foods like spinach, celery, and beets.

Here are the main recommendations:

Hydration is Key: Drink 2 to 2.5 liters of water daily. This helps dilute minerals in the urine, making it harder for stones to form.

Pair Foods Wisely: Consuming high-oxalate vegetables along with calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, or tofu can help. The calcium binds to the oxalate in the digestive tract, preventing it from being absorbed and forming stones.

Avoid Excesses: Limit your intake of salt and animal protein, and avoid high-dose vitamin C supplements, as too much vitamin C can convert to oxalate.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are recommended for prevention.

Medical Guidance: For those with a history of kidney stones, it's crucial to follow a doctor's treatment plan and get regular check-ups to monitor your nutritional status and make necessary dietary adjustments.