Despite the name, a nephrologist is not your first stop for kidney stones. Urologists treat the symptoms and acute illness, and nephrologists treat the cause of kidney stones. Multiple instances of kidney stones typically require the intervention and expertise of nephrologists.
The prevention of stones is aided by drinking water and other specific fluids and frequent urination to discourage calcium or acid build up. Sodas and certain fruit juices are discouraged. Your healthcare provider can tell you the water and fluid intake that is best for you and your condition (Source: The National Kidney Foundation).
Kidney Stone Diet Recommendations from the National Kidney Foundation
These are general recommendations. Always speak with your healthcare provider or a nutritionist for more specific recommendations tailored to you and your condition.
Drink plenty of fluid: 2-3 quarts/day
This includes any type of fluid such as water, coffee, and lemonade which have been shown to have a beneficial effect with the exception of grapefruit juice and soda.
This will help produce less concentrated urine and ensure a good urine volume of at least 2.5L/day.
Limit foods with high oxalate content
Spinach, many berries, chocolate, wheat bran, nuts, beets, tea, and rhubarb should be eliminated from your diet intake.
Eat enough dietary calcium
Three servings of dairy per day will help lower the risk of calcium stone formation. Eat with meals.
Avoid extra calcium supplements
Calcium supplements should be individualized by your physician and registered kidney dietitian.
Eat a moderate amount of protein
High protein intakes will cause the kidneys to excrete more calcium therefore this may cause more stones to form in the kidney.
Avoid high salt intake
High sodium intake increases calcium in the urine which increases the chances of developing stones.
Low salt diet is also important to control blood pressure.
Avoid high doses of vitamin C supplements
It is recommended to take 60mg/day of vitamin C based on the US Dietary Reference Intake.
Excess amounts of 1000mg/day or more may produce more oxalate in the body.
For more information, visit the National Kidney Foundation by clicking the button below.