How can I prevent kidney stones from recurring?

Your kidneys act as a filter for your blood and produce urine and remove waste products from the body. Kidney stones are made of salts and other minerals in urine that stick together forming small stones or “pebbles” in the kidney or ureter. Men tend to get kidney stones more than women. The most common kind of kidney stone is composed of calcium oxalate. Kidney stones are caused by not drinking enough fluids primarily water. Kidney stones are not usually a problem unless they travel from the kidney to the bladder. In this case, kidney stones can cause a blockage resulting in pain and/or bleeding.

If you have a family history of kidney stones or have had kidney stones in the past, you are more likely to develop kidney stones. Your healthcare provider may have suggested that you speak with a dietician about certain foods you should avoid to prevent the recurrence of kidney stones.

Some preventative measures include:

• Decrease your salt intake or remove the salt shaker from your table.
• Eat fewer oxalate- rich foods: Swiss chard, beets, spinach, peanuts, okra, rhubarb, oranges and sweet potatoes.
• Ensure your diet is not high in animal protein.
• Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

If you not working with a dietician to help prevent kidney stones form recurring, ask your healthcare provider to refer you to a dietician to help plan your meals.

For more information about kidney stones, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).