What should you eat when have kidney stones?

When you have kidney stones, your doctor may recommend that you follow a special diet to help prevent new stones from forming. The type of diet you will need to follow will depend on the type of kidney stones you have. Here are some general dietary recommendations for people with kidney stones:

* Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Aim for drinking eight to 10 glasses of water daily unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

* Eat a low-sodium diet. Too much sodium can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Limit your sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams (mg) daily unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

* Limit your intake of animal protein. Animal protein, such as beef, pork, chicken, and fish, can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Limit your intake of animal protein to 6 ounces daily unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

* Increase your intake of plant-based foods. Plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help to prevent kidney stone formation. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily and make whole grains half of your carbohydrate intake.

* Avoid sugary drinks. Sugary drinks, such as soda, juice, and sports drinks, can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Avoid these drinks unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

* Limit your intake of alcohol. Alcohol can dehydrate you and increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Limit your alcohol intake to one drink daily for women and two drinks per day for men unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

By following these recommendations, you can help to prevent new kidney stones from forming and improve your overall health. However, always follow your doctor's specific instructions, as the best diet for you may vary depending on your individual circumstances.