How I can prevent Kidney Stones?

Preventing kidney stones through diet involves focusing on hydration, moderating certain dietary components, and including foods that reduce stone formation risk. The recommendations vary depending on the type of kidney stone (calcium oxalate, uric acid, struvite, etc.), but here are general guidelines: 1. *Stay Well-Hydrated* Drink at least *8-12 cups (2-3 liters)* of fluids daily to dilute urine. Water is the best choice. Include citrus drinks like *lemon water* or orange juice, which provide citrate that may help prevent stone formation. Limit sugary beverages like soda, especially those with high fructose corn syrup. 2. *Moderate Salt Intake* High sodium can increase calcium excretion in urine, leading to stone formation. Limit sodium to *2,300 mg per day**, or **1,500 mg* if you are at high risk of kidney stones. Avoid processed foods, canned soups, and salty snacks. 3. *Balance Calcium Intake* Low dietary calcium can increase oxalate absorption, raising stone risk. Consume appropriate amounts of calcium-rich foods (e.g., dairy products, fortified plant milk) rather than supplements unless prescribed. Aim for *1,000-1,200 mg/day* of calcium from food sources. 4. *Limit Oxalate-Rich Foods (for calcium oxalate stones)* Reduce intake of high-oxalate foods such as: Spinach Rhubarb Beets Nuts and seeds Tea Chocolate Pair oxalate foods with calcium-rich foods during meals to reduce oxalate absorption. 5. *Cut Back on Animal Protein* Excessive animal protein can increase uric acid levels and reduce citrate levels. Limit red meat, organ meats, and shellfish. Replace some animal proteins with plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu. 6. *Monitor Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates* Limit foods with added sugars, as they can increase stone risk. Avoid sugary snacks, desserts, and sweetened beverages. 7. *Increase Citrate-Rich Foods* Include fruits and vegetables high in citrate, such as: Lemons and limes Oranges Melons Bananas Avocados 8. *Be Mindful of Supplements* Avoid excessive vitamin C supplementation, which can increase oxalate levels. Use calcium and vitamin D supplements only as directed by a doctor. 9. *Control Weight* Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can increase the risk of kidney stones. 10. *Special Considerations for Uric Acid Stones* Avoid purine-rich foods like sardines, anchovies, and organ meats. Follow a low-purine diet and focus on alkalinizing foods (fruits and vegetables). Consult a healthcare provider or dietitian to tailor these recommendations to your specific needs and type of kidney stone.