Can cocoa and chocolate cause kidney stones?

Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Last updated Jul. 02, 2019 | Initially Posted Jul. 02, 2019

Answer:

Cocoa and chocolate are high in oxalates, naturally occurring compounds that can contribute to the formation of the most common type of kidney stone in susceptible individuals. Cocoa powders tend to contain a higher concentration of oxalates than chocolate bars, but a single, typical serving of either cocoa or chocolate can contain higher amounts of oxalates than people who are following a low-oxalate diet should consume in a day. For more details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Cocoa and Dark Chocolates Review.

Be aware that some turmeric and cranberry supplements increase urinary oxalate levels, and getting too much vitamin C or calcium from supplements may also increase the risk of kidney stones in some people.

Also see the Encyclopedia article about Kidney Stones for more information.