Nutrition Tips for Kidney Stone Prevention in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Important information:

People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a higher risk of kidney stones because their bodies may not absorb nutrients well or due to inflammation in the digestive tract. Eating the right foods and drinking enough fluids can help prevent kidney stones or make them less severe.

Instructions:

Follow the nutrition tips below to help prevent kidney stones.

• Drink plenty of water. Try to keep your urine clear. If your urine is yellow, drink more water.

• Eat foods that contain citrate. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good choices. Drink a glass of fresh lemonade, lemon water, or orange juice. Avoid juices with added sugars or sugar alcohols.

• Choose foods high in calcium. Eat yogurt, cheese, and milk.

• Limit foods high in oxalates. Avoid spinach, soy, beets, and nuts.

• Reduce salt intake. Keep sodium to less than 2 grams (2,000 mg) each day.

• Eat lean proteins. Good options include chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, nut butters, lentils, and legumes. Limit processed meats such as hotdogs, deli meats, and sausages.

• Choose fresh, nutrient-dense foods. Avoid soft drinks, processed meats, and frozen meals.

Pay attention to signs of a kidney stone:

• Blood in urine

• Painful urination

• Severe pain in the abdomen or lower back

• Nausea

• Vomiting

If you have any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away or go to the emergency department.

Reviewed February 2025 by Jamie Scaramuzzi, BSN, RN, CPN, Natalie Stoner, RD, and Lauren Schutz, PA-C