Low Oxalate Diet May Help Prevent Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a common disorder of the urinary tract.
Kidney stones are pieces of stone-like material that form on the walls of the kidney. They are caused by a buildup of minerals in urine.
Most stones are so small that they pass through the urinary system without pain. However, a large enough stone can cause extreme pain or urinary blockage. This is very painful, and requires treatment or surgery.
In the United States, about 1 million people get kidney stones every year. Stones usually affect people between the ages of 20 and 40. They affect men more often than women. You may also be at risk if you have a family history of kidney stones.
Some people have kidney stones made from calcium oxalate (OX-uh-layt). For these people cutting back on high-oxalate foods and salt may help prevent kidney stones.
On a low oxalate diet, you should limit your oxalate to 40 to 50 mg each day.
Oxalate is found in many foods.