Creating a menu for people with kidney stones is an important factor in supporting treatment and preventing recurrence. The diet needs to provide adequate nutrients, while avoiding foods that can increase the risk of stone formation. Refer to suggested menus for people with kidney stones.

Kidney stones are a common disease and can cause many difficulties in treatment if the diet is not well controlled. Therefore, creating a reasonable menu for people with kidney stones is one of the important measures to help support treatment, reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence of stones. A scientific, nutritious menu that avoids harmful foods will help protect kidney function and maintain long-term health.

What should people with kidney stones eat and what should they not eat?

Below is a guide on foods that should and should not be eaten by people with kidney stones, helping to control the condition and reduce the risk of stone formation.

What to eat:

• Water: Drink enough water (at least 2 – 3 liters per day) to help dilute urine and prevent stone formation.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables:

• Fruits: Watermelon, pineapple, apples, bananas, blueberries, and grapes.
• Vegetables: Green vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, carrots, and cucumbers.
• Whole grains: Oats, brown rice, whole wheat pasta.

People with kidney stones should eat cereals.

Lean Protein:

• Meat: Chicken, fish (salmon, mackerel), and lean pork.
• Beans and tofu: Plant-based sources of protein.
• Low-fat dairy and products: Low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.
• Nuts: Almonds and walnuts (in moderation).

Avoid:

High-oxalate foods:

• Vegetables: Spinach, beets, and potatoes.
• Fruits: Strawberries and lemons.
• Other foods: Chocolate, black tea, and nuts like cashews.

High-sodium foods: Fast foods, processed foods, and foods high in salt.

High-sugar and saturated fat foods: Sweets, fried snacks.

Red meat and high-purine foods: Liver, organ meats, and some red meats like beef and lamb, can increase uric acid in the body.

Kidney Stone Diet Plans

Here are some suggestions for diet plans for kidney stones, focusing on reducing the substances that cause stones:

Breakfast:

• Oatmeal: Cook oatmeal with water or low-fat milk, and add some fresh fruit like bananas or apples.
• Herbal tea: Drink green or chamomile tea, avoiding coffee and caffeinated teas.

Lunch:

• Green salad: Mix lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and tofu, and add a little olive oil and vinegar to enhance the flavor.

Refer to the menu for people with kidney stones

• Steamed fish: Choose fish like salmon or mackerel, steam them and eat them with white rice.
• Water or lemon juice: Drink enough water during meals.

Afternoon meal:

• Fruit smoothie: Make a smoothie from low-oxalate fruits like pineapple, apple, and banana, add a little yogurt to increase nutrition.
• Almonds: Eat a few almonds (not too many because almonds also have oxalate).

Dinner:

• Whole wheat pasta: Cook pasta with homemade tomato sauce and add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms.
• Chicken or lean pork: Grill or boil, eat with steamed vegetables.
• Water or natural fruit juice: Drink enough water to help the kidneys function better.

Notes when creating a menu for people with kidney stones

When creating a menu for people with kidney stones, there are some important notes that you should consider to help control kidney stones and protect your health. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Control foods containing oxalates: Limit foods high in oxalates such as spinach, beets, and nuts. Prioritize foods low in oxalates.
• Reduce salt in your diet: Limit processed foods, fast foods, and foods high in salt. Reducing sodium will help reduce the amount of calcium in your urine.
• Choose lean proteins: Prioritize lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and beans. Limit red meat and foods high in purines such as animal organs.
• Drink enough water: Make sure to drink enough water every day (about 2 – 3 liters) to dilute your urine and reduce the risk of stone formation. Mineral water or filtered water is considered the best choice.

People with kidney stones should make sure to drink enough water every day.

• Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables not only provide vitamins and minerals but also help alkalize urine, reducing the risk of stone formation.
• Limit processed foods: Processed foods often contain a lot of sugar, salt, and preservatives that are not good for the kidneys.
• Consult a doctor or nutritionist: Before changing your diet, consult a specialist to have a diet plan suitable for your health condition and the type of kidney stones you have.
• Pay attention to your body: Monitor how your body reacts to foods and adjust your menu accordingly. If you have any unusual symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

In managing your health and preventing the formation of kidney stones, building a menu for people with kidney stones plays a very important role. By paying attention to the amount of water you drink, choosing the right foods, and limiting harmful substances, you can effectively reduce the risk of disease and protect your kidney health. Always consult your doctor or nutritionist for a safe and appropriate eating plan for your health condition.