Controlling protein intake is important for kidney stone patients, as protein is primarily composed of amino acids, which can produce a large amount of ammonia when metabolized by the liver. Excess ammonia in the bloodstream can lead to increased uric acid levels and even hyperuricemia, a condition that contributes to the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, kidney stone patients should limit their daily intake of high-protein foods to less than 180 grams. Foods high in protein include soy products, chicken, and fish.
Reducing salt consumption is crucial for kidney stone patients. Salt binds with a significant amount of free calcium in the body, and excess salt intake can raise the concentration of calcium in the kidneys and urine. Therefore, kidney stone patients should keep their daily salt intake below 3 grams.
Controlling calcium intake is also essential, as more than 90% of kidney stones are formed from calcium or calcium-containing substances. Therefore, kidney stone patients should consume fewer calcium-rich foods such as soy products, milk, seaweed, dried shrimp, and sesame. Additionally, if calcium supplementation is necessary due to certain medical conditions, it should be done under the guidance of a doctor.
Limiting vitamin C intake is recommended for kidney stone patients, as vitamin C can produce a large amount of oxalic acid in the body. Therefore, the daily intake of vitamin C should be kept below 400 milligrams.
Restricting vitamin D intake is important because vitamin D promotes calcium absorption and storage in the body. Therefore, kidney stone patients should limit their daily intake of vitamin D to 400 units.
Avoiding foods high in oxalic acid is crucial for kidney stone patients, as about 60% of kidney stones in patients are calcium oxalate stones. Therefore, kidney stone patients should consume less foods rich in oxalic acid, including soy products, cocoa, celery, grapes, green peppers, cilantro, spinach, strawberries, and cabbage.
