Kidney Stones - Other Treatments

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Protein Restriction. Protein increases uric acid, calcium, and oxalate levels in the urine, and reduces citrate levels. Diets high in protein, particularly meat protein, have been consistently connected with kidney stones. (Meat protein has a higher sulfur content and produces more acid than vegetable protein.)

Whether restricting meat protein alone without restricting sodium has any protective value is unknown. Most studies to date have found no difference in stone development between people with low and normal protein diets over 4 years.

Although the precise role of dietary protein in kidney stones needs further clarification, it is reasonable for everyone to consume meat protein in moderation. People with struvite stones, who need to reduce phosphates in their diets, should also cut down on proteins.

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DASH Diet. The same diet that is recommended to control blood pressure might also reduce the risk of kidney stones. The DASH diet, which is high in fruits and vegetables and low in animal protein, appears to reduce the incidence of kidney stones by as much as 40 - 50%.

Role of Calcium

Calcium from Foods. Dietary calcium recommendations for kidney stone prevention need to be determined on an individual basis. A doctor will suggest calcium guidelines based on a patient's age, gender, body size, and type of stone. General recommendations for daily dietary calcium intake are: 1,300 mg of elemental calcium for teenagers, 1,000 mg for men and women ages 19 - 50 years, and 1,200 mg after age 50. Most studies indicate that people who eat the recommended amount of dietary calcium (found in milk, yogurt, and cheese) have a lower chance of stone recurrence than those who eat a low-calcium diet. Therefore, a diet containing a normal amount of calcium, but reduced amounts of animal protein and salt may protect against stones better than a low-calcium regimen.

Calcium Restriction in Certain Cases. Some patients, such as those whose stones are caused by genetic defects in which the intestine absorbs too much calcium, may need to limit calcium intake. More studies are needed to define this group precisely.