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Managing Calcium-Containing Kidney Stones with Diet




Approximately 80% of kidney stones are contain calcium. ¹ While calcium is a normal component of urine, elevated concentrations can lead to crystal formation and subsequent stone development. A 24-hour urine test, conducted by your healthcare provider, can assess calcium levels and other factors to guide personalized management strategies.



Fluid Intake


The American Urological Association (AUA) recommends a daily fluid intake of at least 3 liters for individuals with high urinary calcium.² Ample fluid intake effectively dilutes urine, reducing calcium concentration and minimizing the risk of stone formation.


Practical Tips: While water should be the primary source, other beverages such as lemonade, tea, coffee, and juice can contribute to daily fluid goals.



Sodium Intake


The AUA also advises limiting sodium consumption to 2300 mg per day.³ High sodium intake promotes calcium excretion in the urine, increasing the likelihood of stone formation. Reducing sodium intake can significantly decrease urinary calcium levels.


Practical Tips:

  • Prioritize home-cooked meals using whole foods.

  • Scrutinize nutrition labels for sodium content, aiming for less than 600 mg per meal and under 200 mg per snack.

  • Limit consumption of fast food and restaurant meals.



Added Sugar Intake


Excessive added sugar intake has been linked to increased calcium excretion. ⁴ The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar to 25 grams per day for women and 36 grams per day for men. ⁵ 

Practical Tips: 

·         Similar to sodium, ‘added sugar’ content is displayed on nutrition labels.

·         Do not count ‘total sugar’ as this includes naturally occurring sugars, as well.



Calcium Intake


Contrary to common belief, the AUA recommends a normal calcium diet for individuals with high urinary calcium, rather than a calcium restriction. Studies have demonstrated a decreased risk of kidney stones with normal calcium intake. ⁶ ⁷ The recommended daily allowance for calcium in the U.S. ranges from 1,000 to 1,200 mg.


Practical Tips:

  • Incorporate calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, into meals. Consult the USDA website for a comprehensive list of calcium sources: https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/food-sources-calcium

  • While calcium supplements have been shown to increase urinary calcium, studies suggest that overall kidney stone risk may be reduced when supplements are used appropriately. Discuss supplement use with your healthcare provider.


Managing calcium kidney stones involves a multifaceted approach, with dietary modifications playing a crucial role. By adhering to these guidelines and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can effectively minimize the risk of calcium stone formation and promote overall kidney health.


For individuals in the state of Florida seeking expert guidance on kidney stone prevention, our team is ready to help.  We invite you to schedule a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to discuss your needs.


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References:

 

1.     Coe F. L., Evan A., Worcester E. Kidney stone disease. J Clin Invest. 2005; 115(10):2598–2608.

2.     Pearle MS, Goldfarb DS, Assimos DG et al. Medical management of kidney stones: AUA Guideline. J Urol 2014;192:316.

3.     Nouvenne A, Meschi T, Prati B et al. Effects of a low-salt diet on idiopathic hypercalciuria in calcium-oxalate stone formers; a 3-mon randomized condrolled trial. ACJN 2010; 91: 565.

4.     Yin S, Yang Z, et al. Associate between added sugars and kidney stones in U.S.adults: data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2018. Fron Nutr. 2023 (10)1226082.

6.     Domrongkitchaiporn S, Sopassathit W, Stitchantralkul W, et al. Schedule of taking calcium supplement and the risk of nephrolithiasis. Kindey Int. 2004, 65, 1835-1841.

7.     Sromicki J, Hess B. Simple dietary advice targeting five urinary parameters reduces urinary supersaturation in idiopathic oxalate stone formers. Urolithiasis 2020, 48, 425-433.

 
 
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