
Answer:
Calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stone, form when calcium and oxalate (or oxalic acid, which is naturally present in many plant-based and is also produced by the body as a waste product) bind together, forming crystals that can accumulate into a hard "stone."
Having excessive calcium in the urine (hypercalciuria) is the most common cause of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Calcium naturally in foods does not cause this (and can actually help), but people prone to calcium oxalate kidney stones are advised to avoid high-dose calcium supplements and to stay well-hydrated (as inadequate fluid intake can increase the risk of kidney stones). Those with high urinary oxalate levels may also be advised to maintain a low-oxalate diet, which typically limits intake to about 50 to 100 mg of oxalate per day.
Interestingly, too little citrate in the urine (hypocitraturia) is also a risk factor for developing calcium oxalate kidney stones. This can occur due to gastrointestinal conditions such as chronic diarrhea, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, use of ACE inhibitor drugs such as benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), and lisinopril (Zestril), and low-alkali diets (those low in fresh leafy greens, vegetables, citrus fruits and legumes) (Leslie, StatPearls 2022; Zuckerman, Rev Urol 2009).
As discussed below, there are supplements, foods, and beverages that may help reduce the risk of kidney stones (by interfering with the binding of calcium and other compounds that can form stones), as well as those that may increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Be aware that some of the supplements marketed for kidney stones have little or no evidence to support such use.
Use the links below for more details about each.
Supplements and beverages that may reduce the risk of kidney stones
There is evidence that some supplements and beverages may help reduce the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones, but consult your physician before trying these approaches.
Potassium
Several forms of potassium found in potassium supplements may help reduce the occurrence of kidney stones, or, possibly, help to dissolve kidney stones, although more research is needed to confirm this. Interestingly, it is not potassium itself that makes these treatments work but the citrate, bicarbonate and phosphate portions of the potassium salts. Citrate and bicarbonate, for example, bind to calcium to form soluble calcium complexes in urine, preventing the growth and build-up of calcium crystals, and help to alkalize urine (make it less acidic), which may increase the clearance and dissolution of stone fragments (Caudarella, Arch Ital Urol Androl 2009). Potassium citrate is most commonly recommended to help alkalize urine, often at dose providing 30 to 60 milliequivalents (mEq) per day taken in divided doses (Pak, Metabolic Bone Disease and Clinically Related Disorders 1998).
There is good evidence that potassium citrate can inhibit kidney stone formation in a large percentage of people with recurrent kidney stones. For example, a clinical study found that patients who took 6,480 mg (or 60 mEq) of potassium citrate daily (divided into three equal doses, each taken after a meal) had no stone recurrence after one year, compared to a 28.5% stone recurrence rate in patients who did not take potassium citrate (Soygur, J Endourol 2002). Other citrate compounds may also be helpful, such as magnesium citrate and sodium citrate. Some supplements marketed to help prevent kidney stones provide potassium citrate at dosages similar to those found in prescription potassium citrate products, such as Urocit-K, which is often prescribed at a dose of 15 mEq twice daily for mild to moderate hypocitraturia, or 30 mEq twice daily for severe hypocitraturia (Note: Urocit-K comes in several other strengths, such as 10 mEq). Supplements that can provide comparable amounts of alkali citrate include Moonstone Stone Stopper sold as a powder in packets providing 30 mEq alkali citrate (from magnesium citrate, sodium citrate and potassium citrate) per packet. It costs $28.95 for a box of 15 packets. In a small clinical trial among 16 people with a history of kidney stones (calcium, uric acid, and cysteine stones) and mild to moderately low urine citrate levels, taking a packet of Moonstone powder mixed with water twice daily for one week significantly increased 24 hour urine citrate to near-normal (from 469 to 639 mg per day - 640 mg per day is normal) and 24 hour urine pH (from 6.21 to 6.61) compared to drinking water alone (Nazzal, J Urol 2021).
An analysis of products on the market showed that Thorne potassium citrate capsules, which are labeled to contain 99 mg of potassium per capsule, provide 4.2 mEq of alkali citrate per capsule. Similarly, NOW potassium citrate (99 mg of potassium per capsule) provided 4.3 mEq of alkali citrate per capsule. The same study tested Urocit-K 10 mEq tablets and found each to actually provide 12.4 mEq of alkali citrate. So, to get a dose equivalent to one Urocit-K 10 mEq tablet, one would need to take 3 times as many capsules of Thorne or Now. The study found that NOW (7 cents per capsule), however, was only a fraction the cost of Urocit-K ($1 per tablet) as well as Thorne (14 cents per capsule) (Wong, Urol Prac 2022). Similarly, one would have to take 16 to 24 tablets of Horbaach potassium citrate to achieve similar clinically prescribed doses of potassium citrate (Dai, J Endourol 2022).
Be aware that supplements containing potassium citrate and other forms of citrate should be taken with food in order to avoid potential side effects such as stomach irritation, nausea and diarrhea. People with kidney disease or other conditions that impair potassium excretion, and people taking potassium-sparing diuretics (often prescribed to lower blood pressure) should not take potassium without consulting their physician.
Potassium phosphate may help people with kidney stone disease because the phosphate decreases excessive calcium in the urine in people with hypercalciuria. A small clinical study found that 2,496 mg of potassium (as potassium phosphate) taken as four tablets twice daily for four years reduced urinary calcium by 30% to 35% in patients with absorptive hypercalciuria (Heller, J Urol 1998).
Several case reports suggest that potassium bicarbonate may help dissolve kidney stones and prevent recurrence, although this does not seem to have been tested in clinical trials.
Magnesium
There is preliminary evidence that taking a magnesium supplement (as magnesium oxide) with meals may reduce urinary oxalate levels, but more research is needed to determine if regular magnesium supplementation reduces the risk of kidney stones.
Lemon juice, orange juice and other sources of citrate
Certain juices and beverages can also be good sources of citrate and potentially decrease the risk of kidney stones, including lemon juice, orange juice, and Crystal Light. Another benefit of drinking your citrate (as opposed to taking pills), is that it increases your fluid consumption, which is an important component of any kidney stone treatment regimen.
Although grapefruit juice is also a good source of citrate, be aware that it can interact with many medications, including benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax), certain statin drugs (Lipitor, Zocor) and others.
Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a component of Garcinia cambogia extract, is chemically similar to citrate. While laboratory studies have suggested that HCA may help prevent or treat a common type of kidney stones, clinical evidence to-date does not support this use.
Tea
People who are prone to kidney stones are sometimes advised to avoid tea because it contains oxalate (a substance that can bind with calcium to form calcium oxalate kidney stones — the most common type of kidney stone) (Massey, J Am Diet Assoc 1993). However, this does not appear to be a concern with green tea because green tea contains a much lower amount of oxalate (1.36 mg per cup) than black tea (9.54 mg), as does oolong tea (0.58 mg) and herbal tea (0.84 mg) according to one study (Charrier, Asia Pacific J Clin Nutr 2002). Iced tea prepared by cooling brewed tea contains a similar oxalate amount as brewed tea (Oxalosis & Hyperoxaluria Foundation, Accessed 5/1/25). Ready-to-drink iced teas may contain slightly less oxalate than brewed green tea (0.3 to 2.0 mg vs 0.8 to 14.0 mg of oxalate per 3.4 fl. oz) (Siener, Nutrients 2021), but overall intake of oxalate from ready-to-drink iced tea may be similar to that of brewed green tea due to larger typical serving sizes (12 fl. oz) of iced tea.
Adding milk to black tea may reduce the amount of oxalate that is absorbed. In fact, some experts have concluded that, overall, consuming either green tea or black tea with milk may be helpful for people with a history of kidney stones (Charrier, Asia Pacific J Clin Nutr 2002). In addition, keeping steeping time to no more than 3 to 5 minutes and avoiding vigorous stirring may also reduce the amount of oxalate coming from brewed black tea (McKay, J Am Diet Assoc 1995; Mahdavi, Urolithiasis 2013). One study found that steeping black tea in hot water for 10 to 60 seconds, removing, and then steeping in a fresh cup of hot water for the regular amount of time appears to reduce the amount of oxalate by 10% to 65% without impacting the taste, smell or appearance of the tea (Clement, Nephrol Ther 2025). Furthermore, there is some evidence that green tea may actually inhibit the formation of oxalate crystals: In animal studies, green tea, and in particular, EGCG from green tea, has been shown to reduce kidney stone formation (Chen, CrystEngComm 2010; Itoh, J Urol 2005; Jeong, J Endourol 2006). Interestingly, observational studies have reported a decreased risk of kidney stone formation of 8% and 14%, respectively, in women and men without a history of kidney stones who drink 2 to 3 cups of tea (the type of tea, i.e., black or green, and use of milk in tea not reported) per day (Curhan, Ann Intern Med 1998; Curhan, Am J Epidemiol 1996). However, as these are only associations and more research is needed, it would be best to consult with your healthcare provider before regularly consuming green tea if you have a history of kidney stones or have been advised to follow a low-oxalate diet.
Coffee
Although coffee contains oxalate, which can contribute to kidney stone formation, regular intake of coffee has been linked with a lower risk of kidney stones — although this does not prove a cause-and-effect relationship. Analysis of data from three observational studies that included nearly 300,000 people showed that those who consumed at least one serving of caffeinated coffee daily had a 26% lower risk of kidney stones compared to those who consumed less than one serving weekly. Caffeine in coffee can increase urine flow, which may be responsible for this inverse association. Interestingly, regular intake of decaffeinated coffee was also linked with a 16% lower risk of kidney stones, suggesting that other constituents in coffee such as chlorogenic acids may also help reduce kidney stones (Ferraro, Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2013). Coffee also contains citrate (Engelhardt, Z Lebensm Unters Forsch 1985), and, as discussed above, citrate-containing beverages may help reduce the risk of kidney stones.
There is some concern that adding milk to coffee might increase the risk of kidney stones due to the calcium in milk, but this seems unlikely. Although higher intake of calcium from supplements has been linked with an increased risk of kidney stones, higher intake of calcium from the diet — including from dairy products — has been linked with a lower risk (see below for details). Furthermore, several studies have shown that consuming milk with oxalate-containing foods or beverages reduces the bioavailability of oxalate (Brogren, Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2003; Savage, Eur J Clin Nutr 2003; Massey, J Am Diet Assoc 1998).
Chanca piedra
Chanca piedra (Phyllanthus niruri), also known as "stone breaker," is an herb that has been used traditionally to treat kidney stones, but there is no convincing clinical evidence that it works for this purpose.
One study among 56 people (average age 44) with small kidney stones showed that drinking 250 mL (about 8.5 fl oz.) of tea infused with 4.5 grams of chanca piedra twice daily for 12 weeks reduced the average total number of stones per participant from 3.2 at baseline to 2.0 after treatment, with about 68% of the participants showing a decrease in number of kidney stones (Pucci, Int Braz J Urol 2018). However, most people with kidney stones pass the stones spontaneously, so it is unclear if the reduction in kidney stones in this study was due to chanca piedra or natural progression of the condition, particularly as there was no placebo control — which also made it impossible to know if the high incidence of abdominal pain (in 66% of participants) was due to chanca piedra or the underlying disease.
Another study among people with kidney stones, all of whom received extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (which uses shock waves applied to the outside of the body to break up kidney stones into smaller pieces) and about half of whom received 2 grams of chanca piedra extract daily for 3 months after lithotripsy, showed no difference in the rate of kidney stone clearance between those who received chanca piedra and those who did not (Micali, J Urol 2006).
There is insufficient evidence as to whether vitamin B-6, fish oil/omega-3 supplements, or probiotic supplements reduce urinary oxalate levels (Pearl, AUA Guideline J Urol 2014).
Supplements that may increase the risk of kidney stones
Calcium
Increased risk of kidney stones in women has been observed with calcium from supplements (keep in mind, that calcium-fortified foods count as supplemental calcium). On the other hand, getting too little calcium from the diet has also been linked with increased risk of kidney stones. Data from observational studies found that higher dietary intake of calcium (about 800 to 940 mg of calcium per day) from dairy sources (including milk, yogurt, cheese) was associated with a 17% to 24% lower risk of kidney stones in men and women compared to lower dietary intake of calcium from dairy (about 140 to 180 mg daily) (Taylor, J Urol 2013). Experts recommend that people at risk of kidney stones try to get 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium daily naturally from their diet. If this amount of calcium cannot be achieved, a low dose of calcium (200 to 400 mg daily) from supplements in the form of calcium citrate is recommended (Finkielstein, CMAJ 2006). If taking calcium supplements, it may be best to take them with meals, as this may help to bind oxalate from the meal (Pearl, AUA Guideline J Urol 2014).
Choline
Choline supplementation has not been associated with an increased risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones. However, taking large doses of a particular form of choline, choline bitartrate, may lead to an unusual type of kidney stone made of crystals of calcium tartrate tetrahydrate. This type of kidney stone was reported in three men, each of whom consumed several servings daily for a year or more of the "vitamin and amino acid" energy supplement Spark (from Advocare), which contains a large amount of choline (as bitartrate or citrate).
Collagen
Collagen contains the amino acid hydroxyproline, which is converted in the body to glyoxylate, a precursor of the compound oxalate, which, at high levels, can increase the risk of kidney stones. A study among healthy individuals showed that consuming large amounts of collagen increased the oxalate levels in the urine, but consuming smaller amounts of hydroxyproline-rich protein did not. Based on this preliminary evidence, it may be wise for people with a history of kidney stones to avoid consuming large amounts of collagen.
Turmeric and curcumin
Turmeric supplements and spices can contain a substantial amount of oxalate, which might increase the risk of kidney stones. On the other hand, some curcumin products, which are extracts of turmeric, contain little to no oxalate.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C may increase oxalate absorption from foods, and ascorbate (from vitamin C) can be converted to oxalate, and therefore promote the formation of calcium oxalate crystals. Taking high doses of vitamin C (1,000 mg or more daily from supplements) has been associated with an increased risk of kidney stones among men and people with a history of kidney stones. The AUA advises that people with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones avoid vitamin C supplements, noting that supplements generally provide much higher doses than is obtained through diet alone (Pearl, AUA Guideline J Urol 2014).
Foods and beverages that may increase the risk of kidney stones
It is recommended that people with calcium oxalate stones and relatively high urinary oxalate limit intake of oxalate-rich foods along with normal calcium consumption. People with malabsorptive conditions (such as irritable bowel disease (IBD) or those who have had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery) and high urinary oxalate levels may benefit from more restrictive oxalate diets, as well as from higher calcium intakes (Pearl, AUA Guideline J Urol 2014).
For people who are advised by their physician to follow a low-oxalate diet, this often means aiming to restrict intake to no more than about 50 mg to 100 mg of oxalate per day. As shown in the table below, even a single serving of some high-oxalate foods can exceed this amount.
Be aware that not all people with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones have high urinary levels of oxalate, and intake of oxalates from foods is only one of a number of factors that may influence urinary oxalate levels, which also include body mass index, fructose intake, and, as discussed earlier, getting adequate, but not excessive dietary calcium (Taylor, Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2008). In fact, the American Urological Association cautions that overly restrictive low-oxalate diets should be avoided as some foods "high" in oxalate, such as whole grains and vegetables, have health benefits.
Unless otherwise noted, information below is from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Oxalate Database, which includes oxalate levels for many additional foods.
Foods with Highest Amounts of Oxalate |
||
|
||
Food | Serving Size | Oxalates (mg) |
Buckwheat Groats (Roasted, Cooked) | 1 cup | 132.6 |
Wheat Berries (Cooked) | 1 cup | 97.6 |
Bulgur (Cooked) | 1 cup | 85.9 |
Quinoa (Cooked) | 1 cup | 54.4 |
Raisin Bran | 1 cup | 46.1 |
Whole Wheat Spaghetti | 1 cup | 46.1 |
Corn Grits (Cooked with Water, No Salt) | 1 cup | 45.2 |
Raisin Nut Bran | 1 cup | 44.8 |
40% Bran Flakes | 1 cup | 42.7 |
Shredded Wheat | 1 1/3 cup | 41.8 |
Uncle Sam Cereal | 3/4 cup | 41.7 |
|
||
Spinach (Boiled, Unsalted) | 1/2 cup | 547.4 |
Spinach (Raw) | 1/2 cup | 316.2 |
Potato (Baked, Unsalted, Flesh & Skin) | 1 potato | 91.7 |
Beets (Canned, Drained) | 1/2 cup | 76.4 |
Potato (Microwaved, Unsalted, Flesh & Skin) | 1 potato | 68 |
Beetroot Juice | 3.4 oz | 54 mg*** - 65 mg |
Sweet Potato (Cooked, Baked, Unsalted, Flesh & Skin) | 1/2 cup | 54.2 |
|
||
Dates | 5 dates | 25.5 |
Oranges (Raw) | 1 orange | 23.2 |
|
||
Almonds (Raw) | 1 oz | 107* |
Navy Beans (Canned) | 1/2 cup | 96.3 |
Almonds (Oil Roasted, Unsalted) | 1 oz | 72 |
Cashews (Oil Roasted, Unsalted) | 1 oz | 63.5 |
Refried Beans (Canned) | 1/2 cup | 59.6 |
Baked Beans (Canned) | 1/2 cup | 57.5 |
Mixed Nuts with Peanuts (Oil Roasted, Unsalted) | 1 oz | 45.2 |
Almond Butter (Salted) | 1 tbsp | 41.6 |
|
||
Cocoa Powder | 1 tbsp (6 grams) | 43.74** |
Dark Chocolate Bar | 1.7 oz (50 grams) | 76.5 mg** - 100 mg |
|
||
Miso Soup | 1 cup | 58.3 |
Plant-Based Burger (Brand not listed) | 1 patty | 57.9 |
French Fries (Fast Food) | 6 oz | 48.6 |
Meat Lasagna | 1 piece/cup | 45.7 |
French Fries, Sweet Potato | 6 oz | 37.1 |
**Schroder, J Food Compost Anal 2011
***Sierer, J Food Compost Anal 2016
Almonds
Almonds are high in oxalates, containing approximately 72 mg (roasted) to 107 mg (raw) per 1-oz. serving. Consuming a large amount of almonds on a daily basis could exceed the recommended daily limit for a low-oxalate diet.
Almond milk & other plant-based milks
Almond milk and certain other plant-based milks can contain high concentrations of oxalates. Researchers who analyzed the oxalate concentration of various plant-based milks found that almond milk contained the highest concentrations, followed by cashew, hazelnut, and soy, while macadamia, oat, and rice contained the lowest concentrations. When also taking into consideration the labeled amounts of sodium, calcium and potassium in various plant-based milks, the researchers have advised that oat, macadamia, rice, and soy milk may be the best choices of plant-based milk for people with kidney stones, with a similar risk profile as regular dairy milk.
Beets and beetroot juice
As noted in the table above, beets and beetroot juice can contain high levels of oxalates.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are high in oxalates, containing approximately 254 mg of oxalates per 100 grams (about ½ cup). If consumed in excess, or combined with other foods high in oxalates, consuming chia seeds could increase the risk of certain types of calcium oxalate and uric acid stones in some people.
Cocoa and dark chocolate
Cocoa and chocolate are high in oxalates. Although cocoa powders tend to contain higher concentrations of oxalates than chocolate bars, 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, as shown in the table above.
Cranberry Juice and supplements
Cranberry juice contains moderate amounts of oxalate (as may some cranberry supplements), although there is conflicting evidence regarding the effects of cranberry on the risk of kidney stones. For example, some studies have reported a decrease in urinary oxalate levels with regular consumption of cranberry juice, while a small study found supplementation with cranberry tablets increased urinary oxalate levels by 45%, and this increase was even greater when the supplement was taken with vitamin C (a common added ingredient in cranberry supplements). To be safe, people with a history of kidney stones should consult with their physician before regularly consuming cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements.
Plant-based "meats"
Some plant-based meats might increase the risk of kidney stones compared to animal-based proteins due to their higher oxalate content. A study that compared the nutrient content of 47 plant-based meat products resembling beef, pork, chicken, or seafood with that of corresponding animal protein products found that soy-based beef contained, on average, 18 mg of oxalate per serving, while soy-based chicken, pork and seafood, respectively, contained an average of 11 mg, 10 mg and 7.4 mg of oxalate per serving. In contrast, plant-based meats that used pea protein contained only trace amounts of oxalate, similar to actual animal-based meats. Although the researchers noted that a small amount of plant-based meats used wheat, corn, rice and various bean proteins, the amount of oxalate in these plant-based protein sources was not reported (Liaw, J Endourol 2022). Be aware that the Impossible Burger is made primarily with soy protein, while the Beyond Burger is made with pea protein. (See our comparison of these burgers.)
Not proven to help
Alkaline water
Alkaline water is generally not a good option for meeting alkali intake recommendations for people with a history of these types of kidney stones, as it may not alkalize urine. In fact, an analysis of five brands of alkaline waters sold in the U.S. (Essentia, Smart Water Alkaline, Great Value Hydrate Alkaline Water, Body Armor SportWater, and Perfect Hydration) by researchers at the University of California found that although all the waters had an alkaline pH (ranging from 9.85 to 10.15), the physiologic alkali content (i.e., organic anions that can be metabolized to alkali) of each was less than 1 mEq, meaning they would not contribute to the typically recommended alkali dose of 30 to 60 mEq per day to reduce kidney stone risk (as discussed above). The alkaline waters contained a combination of ingredients such as sodium, sodium bicarbonate, potassium (as dipotassium phosphate, potassium carbonate, or potassium bicarbonate), magnesium (as magnesium sulfate or magnesium chloride) and calcium chloride (Schiano, Food Chem 2024).
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is sometimes promoted to reduce the risk of kidney stones due to its acetic acid content, and there is some preliminary evidence that consuming vinegar may alter urinary citrate and calcium excretion (which could help prevent urinary calcium oxalate crystal formation). However, there are no clinical studies to supporting such a benefit, and some researchers have noted that that it would be difficult to consume enough apple cider vinegar to make it a better option than other supplements and beverages (Joshi, Urology 2021). [Note: Consuming too much vinegar can also have adverse effects.]
Coconut water
Although preliminary research has suggested a possible role for coconut water in preventing kidney stone formation, and some websites claim it can "dissolve" kidney stones, none of this has been proven in people. A study in healthy adults without a history of kidney stones found that, compared to tap water, coconut water increased citrate in the urine by an average of 29% (161 mg per day) and, not surprisingly, potassium increased by even more -- by 130%, but did not affect urinary pH. In addition, this approach could be dangerous for people who need to restrict their potassium intake, and there are more efficient ways to increase urinary citrate.
Many supplements are promoted to prevent or treat kidney stones despite having little or no evidence to support their use. A review of supplement labels for 27 products sold online through Amazon and/or Google that make claims to prevent, cure, dissolve or treat kidney stones (and ranging in cost from $4 to $189 for a 30-day supply) showed that nearly two-thirds (18 products) contained ingredients with conflicting or absent evidence of benefit (Koo, J Endourol 2020). The study did not provide product names, but some of the ingredients found in these products included apple cider (as discussed above), burdock seed, juniper berry, celery seed, cinnamon bark, dandelion root, hydrangea, ginger root, gravel root, lemon balm leaf, licorice root, marshmallow root, parsley root, shilajit, and turmeric (which, as noted above, could potentially increase risk of kidney stone formation).
Join today to unlock all member benefits including full access to all CL Answers and over 1,400 reviews.
Join NowAlready a member? Sign In Here.
Join now at www.consumerlab.com/join/
Aray
June 21, 2025I ALWAYS consult ConsumerLab for health and nutrition questions! There is so much confusing information and recommendations about kidney stones out there. I was advised to have a 24-hour urine collection and analysis to determine if I had the risk factors for stones, and if so, the type of stones.
Reply to this post…
Audi
May 09, 2025Thank you for this great article. I have RA, Lupus & Scleroderma. I thought I was eating healthy by consuming a lot of greens. turned out I was eating the wrong greens Spinach for one. Since I have reduced the oxalates in my diet I'm not having as much joint pain & inflammation.
Reply to this post…
Marleina22705
May 04, 2025Thank you CL and everyone who made comments. I too joined the kidney stone club in 2018! Although I take a Turmeric supplement, vitamin C, & Collagen, I haven’t had a recurrence. I’m hoping once was enough!
Reply to this post…
Nancy22631
April 26, 2025My urologist said brewed tea is good to drink instead of sugary ice teas to prevent stones. Can you comment on brewed tea vs bottled iced tea?
Please see the following section of our article for information about oxalate content of different types of tea: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/supplements-food-risk-of-kidney-stones/supplements-kidney-stones/#tea
Reply to this post…
Michele19435
May 04, 2024Thank you so much for this article. I had gastric bypass and have had 4 surgeries for kidney stones and ultrasound just showed two more stones. I switched to a low oxalate diet and take Urocit-K but obviously need to do more work on this. This article gave me a lot more information. Thank you again.
Glad it was helpful!
Reply to this post…
George18782
February 21, 2024Turmeric is my downfall. Never had kidney stones until I started taking turmeric (spice form, not curcumin or extracts) to help with joint inflamation. About a month later, BOOM, kidney stone and hospital visit. I didn't directly correlate the turmeric with the stone, but stopped taking turmeric just to be sure. About six or 7 months later, I decided to give turmeric another try and about a month later: BOOM. Fortunately that stone was small enough to pass and didn't require surgery. I have stayed away from turmeric and no stones at all for the past 4 years. I have six siblings and all have had kidney stones -- it's a family affair.
jeff22013
February 19, 2025On this very site, oxalate content in turmeric is evaluated with different brands showing vast differences in oxalate. Unaware until I also had kidney stones, I have since switched to a low oxalate turmeric. Problem solved.
This information can be found in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/turmeric-curcumin-supplements-spice-review/turmeric/#oxalate.
Reply to this post…
Robert18542
January 28, 2024I am 77 years old and suffered from kidney stones for decades. At about the age of 50 my Doc, who was new to me, had a uric acid test done on my blood, and though the result showed I was in the "normal" range, he told me that, due to my history, a good level for me would be at the bottom of the normal range and he prescribed a drug called Allopurinol, 100mg, one per day. Once I started taking that my kidney stone problems ended. I am so thankful to that doctor!! I continue to take one per day.
Shelley22678
May 02, 2025Thank you for sharing this. It is nice to hear that your doctor was able to recognize your need for the allopurinol even though your uric acid test was in normal range. My son is 41 and had several kidney stones about six months ago. It took 5 days and 2 visits for the doctor to figure out it was kidney stones causing his horrific pain. As a retired pharmacist, I am very interested in this article on Consumer Lab. I plan on passing your story on to him so if he has another occurrence of kidney stones he can ask his doctor about taking allopurinol. Thank you again!
Reply to this post…
jennifer18536
January 28, 2024I have a chronic kidney stone problem. Luckily mine are small enough that I’m able to pass them without surgery.
The cause of mine (and not exasperated by supplements) it was discovered was from my parathyroid. Diagnosed from my endocrinologist. FYI for other people with this problem looking for causes.
Mario21998
February 19, 2025You are not alone. Hyperparathyroidism is incredibly destructive and often not diagnosed until damage is done. It can cause elevated calcium in the blood and urine. I underwent the removal of 2 parathyroid gland adenomas but not before a small (.5mm) kidney stone was formed. I think that taking Chanca Piedra capsules for many months may have resulted in the dissolution of my stone.
Reply to this post…
Gerald18532
January 27, 2024Stone analysis showed pure Uric acid crystals so no problem since lower protein diet and gout med.
Reply to this post…
Joe18519
January 27, 2024My anecdote is I developed a bladder stone, drinking concentrated lemon juice and vinegar every day for a few weeks made it go away. Now if I feel one starting I start this routine again and the problem subsides.
As noted above, be aware that consuming too much vinegar can have adverse effects. You can learn more about this in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of our Apple Cider Vinegar Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/apple-cider-vinegars-review/apple-cider-vinegar/#cautions.
Reply to this post…
Marilyn17085
August 18, 2023Excellent article-- thank you-- I developed a kidney stone a few years ago- I did some research and read an article that Vitamin C supplements, taken in large doses can cause kidney stones. I was taking at least 1000 mg daily for years and years. I stopped taking Vitamin C supplements and so far no further kidney stones.
Reply to this post…
Barbara17081
August 15, 2023Thanks for ConsumerLab! We have chia seeds with breakfast every morning, one tablespoon, never a problem with kidney stones.
Reply to this post…
Edward17071
August 13, 2023Thanks so much for the heads up about chia seeds as I eat them every day. Not any more! My last stone was three days ago.
Reply to this post…
Sharon17064
August 12, 2023I found this very helpful! Thank you so much.
Thank you Sharon, we're glad it was helpful!
Reply to this post…
J. Michael17063
August 12, 2023Check out The Trying Low Oxalates group on Facebook! Once joining, you can get assess to their well tested spreadsheet on soluble oxalates in foods! They have been working on this with updates for 18 years! They are a great support group and scientific source of information.
Reply to this post…
Philip17058
August 11, 2023I am one of those people predisposed to kidney stones. This article stated that some extracts of turmeric contain little or no oxalates. Any brand names come to mind? Thank You.
Please see https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/turmeric-curcumin-supplements-spice-review/turmeric/#oxalate
Reply to this post…
Johane17056
August 11, 2023I am 80% vegetarian and I learned a lot from reading your article, thanks for your research and your good topics :-)
Thank you, we're glad you found the information to be helpful!
Reply to this post…
Thomas17053
August 11, 2023I really learn a lot from the Consumer Lab articles and it helps me make smart decisions on what I put in my mouth or on my body. Kudos to the folks at this wonderful organization.
Thank you Thomas, we're glad you found the article to be helpful!
Reply to this post…
paul17050
June 11, 2023This is probably the most comprehensive resource of dietary kidney stone information I've seen. Answers a ton of relevant questions that aren't easy to find in one resource.
Glad to hear you found it helpful!
Reply to this post…
Lonna
March 26, 2023I appreciate all the great information you provide. I often leave my tea steeping for several minutes, thinking that I am getting more nutrients that way. Thank you for your advice to not leave my tea bags steeping for a long time--I have wondered about that for quite awhile.
CJ Dill
August 11, 2023Thank you very much for this comprehensive report. Almost all the info I have read only included the foods that promote stones...and they often conflict with each other on many items. This report does answer the other side of the picture. All physicians should read this!
Thank you for your kind words, we're glad you found it helpful.
Reply to this post…
Jeff17043
September 18, 2022Thank you CL for all your work! It’s nice to have an independent entity we can trust.
Thank you for your kind words Jeff!
Reply to this post…
Jack17039
September 11, 2022I concur with Duncan. ConsumerLab.com is something I feel I can trust and the small cost of subscription is the best health and nutrition investment I have ever made. The topics covered and the research covering those topics is outstanding.
Thank you Jack, we're glad to hear CL can be a good resource for you!
Dr Prakash17040
September 24, 2022Absolutely agree! I count on consumers lab for any decisions I make after basic research on my own. I feel confident I can come here with what information I have garnered and either confirm or not the validity of my information as well as the part of the review that tells us which products actually have what they’re supposed to have in them at the levels that they say they have! I feel confident I can come here with what information I have garnered and either confirm or not the validity of my information as well as the part of the review that tells us which products actually have what they’re supposed to have in them at the levels that they say they have. i’m very thankful to have this resource! I only wish others they talk to would spend a little bit that it takes to have a subscription because the information here is way beyond what I expect for the cost of a subscription so thank you Consumer Lab for contributing to my health and wellness in such a positive way!
Susan17041
January 08, 2023I agree with Jack26210. Thank you ConsumerLab!
Reply to this post…
Elizabeth17037
September 09, 2022I went to the ER in unbearable pain with a kidney stone, which had to be surgically removed. I had been taking 500 mg of vitamin C a day. I stopped taking it and while I believe I have had a few small stones since, based on the pain of passing them, I have not been to the hospital again with a stone stuck in my ureter and putting me through agony. I also drink Crystal light lemonade every day.
Reply to this post…
Karen17034
May 16, 2022After ending up in emergency with incredible pain, I decided that was enough. The local supplements store recommended Chanca Piedra capsules. Now whenever I get kidney or side flank pains I take two daily capsules for about 2-3 days and the pain disappears.
I even take them travelling - just in case. Am so grateful!
Reply to this post…
william17028
May 10, 2022I have had kidney stones twice, the second time I wound up in the ER. Both times I passed the stone so I do not know which type of stone it was. My Urologist told me to drink water and water with fresh lemon juice. I also drink a cup of chanca piedra every few days; however, there is very little research on chance piedra. Even with the few studies that show that it prevented stones from reoccurring, it is not known if the research participants also drank lots of water. Unfortunately, once you get a stone your are at risk of getting them again. Oxalate can contribute to kidney stone formation so I do not eat spinach which is very high in oxalates just as a precaution.
Reply to this post…
Duncan17022
April 26, 2022No one mentioned excruciating PAIN that can be associated with kidney stones. While awaiting surgery a prescription-required level of potassium helped erode and break up my singular biggie into passible bits (the largest landing with a plop). Examining the nugget my urologist said, "OK, we got lucky, until next time". "Next time?" "Oh yes once a 'former' I usually see my patients again within 5 years". Recalling the ambulance ride to the ER I said, "Not me". That was 15 years ago. Much better hydration, daily potassium, replaced calcium supplements with magnesium and other things that improve calcium *absorption* instead. Appreciate the tip about Almond and Cashew Milk. Another shopping list scratch then. Besides, OAT milk rocks. No pun intended.
Duncan17025
May 10, 2022Should have also added ConsumerLabs rock! Countless testing and constant balanced, nuanced articles that leave no stone unturned are absolutely precious! Carry on!
Thank you for your kind words, Duncan. We are glad you are enjoying the site!
James17023
September 11, 2022Spinach has about the highest concentration of calcium oxalate of all foods. BEWARE. I used to eat an enormous amount of spinach on a near daily basis and developed kidney stones. I avoid it now.
Reply to this post…
Alan17014
December 18, 2021" ... but there is no clinical evidence that [chanca piedra] works for [kidney stones] ..."
I don't doubt what you're saying. That said, I'm maybe an anecdote of one. I had abdominal pain. I went to the ER. An MRI revealed 15 kidney stones in the left kidney, none in the right. On my urologist's advice, I began to drink a lot of water. My urologist didn't advise me to try chanca piedra, nor did he advise against it. I tried it. One year later, I had no kidney stones. Was this due to the supplement, the water, or the citrate-containing drinks I was consuming? Who can say for sure?
Joy17018
December 24, 2021Interesting. I have a few stones deep in the renal pelvis, not responding to lithotripsy twice. Question: Did it dissolve the stones or did you pass them? What form of chanca piedra did you take? Also which citrate drinks were you consuming?
Alan17017
December 25, 2021My urologist surgically removed the stone (6 mm / calcium oxalate). Though I could be wrong, I do believe my lifestyle interventions dissolved the remaining kidney stones. I was released from a five-day stint in the hospital, and had a followup visit with my doctor. Immediately thereafter, on his advice I drank as much water as I possibly could. When I wasn't drinking water, I drank Crystal Lite Lemonade Drink Mix. I used a product called "Stone Breaker." One year later, my urologist's comment was that "some of the stones could still be there, but you've considerably reduced them in size to the point that they'll no longer present on X-ray."
We've added information about Chanca piedra, an herb also known as "stone breaker," in the Answer above.
Reply to this post…
Carol17011
December 17, 2021You may wish to add collagen supplements to your list of things causing kidney stones. I am a stone creator and have had laparoscopy and last November a procedure for hydronephrosis with urinary obstruction. I do not abuse my kidneys eating the wrong foods. But, I do have connective tissue disorder and use collagen at half dose size (instead of four scoops per day I used two). While correcting my connective tissue issues, after two years I started in with the kidney issues. In researching "collagen and kidney stones," I found it to be very much the culpret. I now take one scoop of Great Lakes collagen per day. I have also seen some return of my CT issues, but have no choice.
Thank you for sharing this Carol. We've added information about collagen and kidney stones in the Answer above. More details can be found in our Collagen Supplements Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/collagen-supplements-review-peptides-hydrolysate/collagen/#kidney-stones.
Reply to this post…
judith17005
December 12, 2021You need to test Chandra piedra otherwise known as breakstone. It’s a Godsend to me. I used to get them but in three years- none. I take one in am and pm by whole world Botanicals.
Carol17006
December 28, 2021Thank you Judith. I guess I can find it online or can you purchase it at a health supplement store?
William17008
May 10, 2022Judith, in addition to preventing, did it also help you to get read of any existing stones, in your opinion? I tried the "Stone Breaker" supplement, which I believe s Chandra piedra, but on my next scan the asymptomatic, non-obstructing 4-5 mm stone was still there. But, maybe I did not use it for a long enough time period?
Carol17009
September 23, 2022I do both Chandra piedra and Crystal Lite. Waiting to see my next CT scan for results.
Reply to this post…