Kidney stones form when compounds in the urine gather into a solid mass. They can cause extreme pain and urinary blockage. There are different types of stones, with some of the most common being calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and uric acid stones. Kidney stone formers are at twice the risk for developing decreased kidney function and chronic kidney disease compared with non-formers.

Magnesium and calcium, particularly in their citrate forms; vitamin B6; and probiotics may help prevent kidney stones.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Dehydration is an important risk factor for all types of kidney stones.
• Urine composition, such as pH, excessive calcium, oxalates, or uric acid in the urine are associated with kidney stone risk.
• Animal protein intake can increase the risk of kidney stones.

Note: It was assumed that calcium intake, from diet or supplements, contributed to kidney stone risk. However, low calcium intake is now known to increase kidney stone risk.

Signs and Symptoms

• Kidney stones can be present in the kidney without causing symptoms, sometimes for years.
• The hallmark symptom of a kidney stone is sudden, severe flank pain that is usually one-sided.

Diagnosis

• A patient’s history, physical exam, and urinalysis often clearly indicate acute kidney stones.
• Kidney stones are sometimes found during diagnostic imaging that is being performed for another reason.

Conventional Treatment

• All kidney stones have their composition analyzed and a 24-hour urine analysis is performed for both diagnosis and prevention.
• Pain management is often accomplished with nonnarcotic or narcotic pain relievers and NSAIDs.
• Lithotripsy uses shock waves to break the kidney stone into smaller fragments.
• Preventive treatment may include allopurinol or thiazide diuretics.

Novel and Emerging Strategies

• Bisphosphonates can help keep urine calcium concentrations from rising by reducing bone breakdown and calcium loss.
• Sleep position may predict the side on which kidney stones will occur, as a study showed 76% of kidney stone formers slept on the same side as their stones.
• Oxalobacter formigenes, bacteria found in the digestive tract, prevented calcium oxalate kidney stones in clinical studies. This probiotic is currently available only as a pharmaceutical, not as a dietary supplement.

Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations

• Increase fluid intake, especially citrus juices and mineral water.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables, as they are protective against most types of kidney stones.
• Reduce dietary purines (including organ meats and seafood) and dietary oxalates (including spinach and French fries).

Integrative Interventions

• Magnesium: Higher magnesium consumption, and especially magnesium citrate, is significantly associated with lower risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones. In order to bind dietary oxalate, magnesium must be taken at the same time as oxalate-containing foods.
• Calcium: High dietary calcium has been shown to decrease kidney stone risk. Taken in its citrate form, calcium can help alkalinize urine and reduce the rate of stone formation.
• Probiotics: Certain Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria strains may reduce urinary oxalate and decrease kidney stone risk, especially in people with high urinary oxalate concentrations.
• Vitamin B6: In a 14-year study in women, kidney stone risk was 34% lower in those who consumed the most vitamin B6 per day from diet and supplements compared with those who consumed the least.
• Fish oil: Fifteen healthy people were given EPA and DHA for 30 days; excessive urinary oxalate excretion and calcium oxalate saturation was decreased at the end of the trial.

Kidney stones form when compounds in the urine aggregate into a solid mass (Aggarwal 2013). Kidney stones can cause extreme pain and urinary blockage in severe cases (UMMC 2013).

About 7% of women and 13% of men in the United States will have at least one bout of kidney stones requiring medical attention in their lifetime (Aliotta 2015). Unfortunately, kidney stones have a high rate of recurrence: without treatment, the risk of a second episode of kidney stones is as high as 50% during the seven years following the first occurrence (Xu 2013). Thus, taking steps to reduce kidney stone risk after a first episode is of the utmost importance.

Increasing fluid intake is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones, since greater urine volume decreases the concentration of stone-forming compounds. Dietary habits such as increasing fruit and vegetable intake and decreasing intake of animal protein may play a role in reducing susceptibility to some types of kidney stones, since the foods we eat influence the composition of our urine (Heilberg 2013).

One important consideration for kidney stone formers is often overlooked: people who have a history of kidney stones may be more susceptible to chronic kidney disease. In fact, the association between kidney stones and chronic kidney disease is independent of major kidney disease risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes: stone formers are at twice the risk for developing decreased kidney function and chronic kidney disease compared with non-formers (Keddis 2013; Frassetto 2011).

Generally, small kidney stones will pass with no medical intervention other than pain management and hydration. Doctors sometimes prescribe medications to relax the ureters and ease the passage of the stones. Larger stones, and stones that fail to pass or cause especially severe pain or obstruction and infection may require more aggressive therapies such as antibiotics, lithotripsy (therapy utilizing ultrasound shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments), or surgery to remove stones (Antonelli 2015).

A fundamental aspect of kidney stone management is analyzing the chemical composition of the patient’s urine and kidney stones (if available). Different stone types require different treatments. A 24-hour urine profile is a useful tool in determining the type of stone(s) a patient has or is prone to developing (LabCorp 2015). Calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and uric acid stones are the most prevalent, and these differ in their causes and treatments. For instance, calcium oxalate and uric acid stones are best addressed by raising urine pH while calcium phosphate stones require lowering urine pH (Xu 2013; Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012; Healy 2012; Curhan 2012; Coe 2015).

Several natural interventions may help prevent certain types of stone formation. For example, supplemental magnesium and calcium, particularly in their citrate forms; vitamin B6; and probiotics may help prevent calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stones (Negri 2013; Zimmermann 2005; Taylor 2004; Caudarella 2009; del Valle 2013; Sakhaee 2004; Ettinger 1997; Ferraz 2009; Curhan 1999).

Not long ago, it was assumed that calcium intake, from diet or supplements, contributed to kidney stone risk. Some physicians even went as far as telling kidney stone patients to restrict calcium intake. But this theory has been disproven, and low calcium intake is now known to increase kidney stone risk. Calcium supplementation was not associated with kidney stone risk in a rigorous analysis of data from 10 studies (Martini 2002; Candelas 2012). 

In this protocol you will learn about the different types of kidney stones and how they form. Factors that increase kidney stone risk will be described, and little known connections between kidney stones and several chronic health conditions will be reviewed. You will also learn about how kidney stones are typically treated, and ways to reduce kidney stone risk with dietary strategies and natural interventions.

Given the underappreciated connection between kidney stones and chronic kidney disease, readers of this protocol should also review Life Extension’s Kidney Health and Chronic Kidney Disease protocols, which describe more general strategies for preserving kidney health.

The Urinary Tract

The kidneys maintain the necessary balance of electrolytes and fluids in the bloodstream by filtering all of the blood in the body through microscopic structures called nephrons. Nephrons allow water and some waste products to enter the urine, while retaining cells and large molecules in the blood (NIDDK 2014). The kidneys also help maintain a slightly alkaline blood pH (between 7.37 and 7.43) by excreting excess acid or base (Koeppen 2009; Lewis 2013).

The final product of this filtration process, urine, is collected from the nephrons and eventually drains into narrow tubes called ureters that connect the kidneys to the bladder. Finally, urine leaves the bladder and the body via another narrow tube called the urethra (NIH 2014).

How Kidney Stones Form

Urine becomes more concentrated as it moves through the kidneys and as water is reabsorbed into the bloodstream (Sands 2009). Minerals and organic molecules that are dissolved in the urine can crystallize if the urine becomes highly concentrated. These crystals can stick together and form complexes with other molecules, particularly proteins. These crystalline-protein complexes are the main components of kidney stones (Aggarwal 2013; UMMC 2014).

There are five major types of kidney stones (Aliotta 2015; Preminger 2015; Antonelli 2015):

• Calcium oxalate. From 60‒80% of all kidney stones are entirely calcium oxalate or predominantly calcium oxalate with a smaller percentage of calcium phosphate.
• Calcium phosphate. Pure calcium phosphate stones are less common, accounting for 10‒20% of all kidney stones.
• Uric acid. Uric acid stones account for up to 20% of all kidney stones.
• Struvite. Kidney stones are made of struvite, which is magnesium ammonium phosphate, in 1‒7% of cases. Struvite stones are associated with chronic urinary tract infections involving certain types of bacteria, and are up to three times more common in women.
• Cystine. Stones made of the amino acid cystine are rare in adults and more common in children, representing 1‒3% of all kidney stone cases.

Very small stones can pass through the entire urinary tract without causing symptoms, but larger stones can become lodged in the ureters, bladder, or urethra (NLM 2015; Johns Hopkins 2015). Stones that become lodged in the urinary tract can cause severe pain and block urine flow (UMMC 2013; Singh 2011). Kidney stones are frequently passed without complications, using only conservative treatment such as pain relief and hydration (Aliotta 2015; Antonelli 2015).

Kidney Stones and Chronic Kidney Disease Kidney stones increase the risk of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease (Frassetto 2011), independently of risk factors shared by stone formers and those with chronic kidney disease such as high blood pressure and diabetes. It is estimated that the risk of chronic kidney disease is twice as high in stone formers compared with non-stone formers (Keddis 2013). This relationship may be related to stone size and number. In one study, greater cumulative stone size was associated with higher chronic kidney disease risk, suggesting people who either form large stones or many smaller stones are at greater risk (Ahmadi 2015). Some researchers have proposed that the presence of crystals and stones in kidney tissues can trigger chronic inflammatory processes and scarring that directly contribute to chronic kidney dysfunction and disease (Keddis 2013; Aggarwal 2013). Given the link between history of kidney stones and chronic kidney disease, individuals who are stone formers should also review the protocol on Kidney Health, which describes many strategies for keeping the kidneys healthy.

Dehydration

One of the most important risk factors for all types of kidney stones is dehydration (Wong 2015; Curhan 2012; Antonelli 2015). When there is too little water in the urine, stone-forming molecules are more concentrated and more likely to form crystals (Aggarwal 2013). In general, a urine flow rate of less than 1 L per day increases the risk of stone formation (Curhan 2012), and guidelines for people with a history of kidney stones include the recommendation to maintain their urine output above 2 L per day (Antonelli 2015).

Urine Composition

In addition to the concentration or diluteness of the urine, other urinary factors are associated with kidney stone risk (Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012).

Urine pH. The pH of urine is largely determined by diet (Adeva 2011). For example, a diet high in animal protein tends to promote acidic conditions and lower urine pH (Fenton 2011; Friedlander 2015; Schwalfenberg 2012). The most common types of kidney stones, calcium oxalate and uric acid, usually form in acidic urine—as do cystine stones, which are uncommon. On the other hand, urine alkalinity may increase the risk of calcium phosphate and struvite stones (Frassetto 2011). Since varying urine composition and pH can give rise to different types of stones, it is critical that patients undergo urine analysis and have their stone type determined before treatment is initiated. Different types of stones require different treatment approaches (UCKSETP 2015).

Hypercalciuria. Hypercalciuria is excessive calcium in the urine; sometimes this occurs even when calcium intake is not excessive and blood calcium level is normal (Chines 1995). Hypercalciuria may be related to problems in the digestive tract that lead to increased calcium absorption, or dysfunctional renal calcium handling, but often no underlying cause is identified (Aliotta 2015). Excess urine calcium increases the risk of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate kidney stones (Escribano 2014).

Hyperoxaluria. Hyperoxaluria refers to high oxalate concentration in the urine and is seen in 10‒40% of people with calcium oxalate stones, though it can also be present in individuals without kidney stone disease (Curhan 2012). One important determinant of the amount of oxalate in the urine is the amount absorbed from the intestines from food (Xu 2013). High oxalate concentrations are present in several foods, including nuts and nut butters and some vegetables and fruits, and can be made in the body from other compounds including vitamin C (Pena de la Vega 2004; UMICH 2015). Vitamin C supplementation has been shown to increase urinary oxalate in people with a history of kidney stones (Baxmann 2003; Urivetzky 1992), and some observational studies have identified associations between vitamin C supplementation and increased kidney stone risk, primarily in men (Thomas 2013; Ferraro 2016). Although vitamin C supplementation has not been shown to cause kidney stones in randomized controlled trials, it may nevertheless be prudent for people with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones to consult a qualified healthcare provider before initiating supplementation with high-dose vitamin C.

Hypocitraturia. Hypocitraturia is too little citrate in the urine. Citrate is an alkalinizing molecule that raises urine pH, binds calcium in the urine, and blocks calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate crystallization. Thus, urinary citrate protects against calcium oxalate and uric acid kidney stones. Low intake of dietary citrate from vegetables and fruits and high animal protein intake may contribute to hypocitraturia, though often the cause is unknown (Curhan 2012; Zuckerman 2009; Pak 1986).

Hyperuricosuria. Hyperuricosuria is excessive uric acid concentration in the urine, which increases the risk of uric acid and calcium oxalate kidney stones. Hyperuricosuria commonly occurs in gout, but has many other possible causes, such as certain medications or excess purine intake (purines are organic compounds common in organ meats, some fish, and beer) (Zwolinska 2000; Ngo 2007; Halabe 1994; Maalouf 2011). Uric acid stones are more common in people with metabolic syndrome and in those with gout. About 20% of people with gout develop uric acid kidney stones (Grassi 2011; Xu 2013).

Dietary Risk Factors

High salt intake. A high-salt diet contributes to kidney stone risk, at least in part, because high sodium intake raises urine calcium concentration (Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012; Friedlander 2015).

High sugar intake. A high-sugar diet appears to raise the risk of kidney stones, which may relate in part to the ability of refined sugar and large quantities of carbohydrate to elevate urine calcium (Thom 1978; Garg 1990). In a 12-year study of 91 731 women, those who ate the most refined sugar were 52% more likely to develop kidney stones than those who ate the least (Curhan 1997). Similarly, in a study of nearly 200 000 individuals over an average of eight years, those who consumed the most sugar-sweetened soft drinks were 23% more likely to develop kidney stones compared with those who consumed the least (Ferraro 2013).

Low calcium intake. Although dietary calcium restriction was previously thought to lower urine calcium and calcium-containing stone risk, evidence from multiple large observational studies and a randomized controlled trial has shown that calcium restriction does not prevent stone formation (Friedlander 2015). In fact, calcium actually binds to oxalate in the digestive tract, preventing oxalate from entering the bloodstream. This then lowers urinary oxalate, and may help prevent calcium oxalate kidney stones. This possibility has received support from epidemiologic studies that have found that lower dietary calcium intake actually increases kidney stone risk (Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012; Sorensen, Eisner 2012).

Low fruit and vegetable intake. Several fruits and vegetables provide alkaline-forming substances including bicarbonate, citrate, and potassium, which alkalinize urine, reduce urinary calcium excretion, and raise urinary citrate, thus reducing kidney stone risk (Morris 1999).

Animal Protein Intake and Kidney Stones Animal protein acidifies urine, decreases urinary citrate, and raises urinary calcium and uric acid, potentially increasing risk of calcium and uric acid kidney stones (Friedlander 2015; Gul 2014; Lambert 2012). A small randomized study in healthy individuals found that beef, chicken, and fish have similar potential to promote kidney stone formation based on their impact on urinary uric acid and urine chemistry (Tracy 2014). Overall, vegetarians have a lower risk of stone development than meat eaters; and among meat eaters, studies suggest those who consume more fruits and vegetables are less likely to form kidney stones (Espinosa 2012). The effectiveness of a diet low in animal protein, independent of other dietary changes, for preventing kidney stones has yet to be rigorously studied (Friedlander 2015), but several expert sources recommend restriction of animal protein in order to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation and recurrence (Curhan 2012; Trinchieri 2013; Heilberg 2013; UMMC 2013).

Medications

Some medications can affect urine chemistry and increase the likelihood of kidney stone formation. In general, these medications cause higher urinary levels of calcium, uric acid, or oxalate. Examples of such medications include (Antonelli 2015; Husain 2012):

• A class of antiviral drugs known as protease inhibitors
• A class of drugs known as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, which includes some drugs used to treat glaucoma, epilepsy, and edema
• The decongestant ephedrine and the expectorant guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin)
• Some diuretics such as triamterene (Dyrenium)
• The antibiotic sulfadiazine

Conditions Associated with Increased Kidney Stone Risk

Impaired kidney function. Kidney diseases and disorders that impair renal calcium handling cause high urinary calcium and thereby increase stone risk. Similarly, kidney diseases that cause increased phosphate in the urine also contribute to stone risk (Arrabal-Polo, Arrabal-Martin 2013; Aliotta 2015).

Hyperparathyroidism. In this condition, parathyroid hormone levels are elevated. This leads to increased intestinal calcium absorption and calcium removal from bones, raising blood calcium levels as well as urine calcium concentrations and kidney stone risk (Gasser 2013; Nussey 2001; Moe 2008). 

Osteoporosis. Emerging evidence suggests a strong relationship between bone loss and kidney stones. This has led some researchers to recommend osteoporosis testing for recurrent kidney stone formers (Arrabal-Polo, Sierra Giron-Prieto 2013).

Digestive and intestinal disorders. People with chronic diarrhea or inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease absorb more dietary oxalate, leading to hyperoxaluria and thus an increased calcium oxalate stone risk (Aliotta 2015). Hyperoxaluria can also occur in people with fat malabsorption due to digestive disorders or after gastrointestinal surgery, including bariatric surgery for weight loss. In this condition, excess (unabsorbed) fat in the gut binds to calcium, which then cannot attach to and block absorption of oxalate (Arrabal-Polo, Arrabal-Martin 2013; Nazzal 2015).

Type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes have more acidic urine and higher urinary uric acid and oxalate than people without diabetes, increasing their risk of uric acid and calcium oxalate kidney stones (Eisner 2010; Torricelli 2014; Hartman 2015).

Kidney stones, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. The American Heart Association defines metabolic syndrome by the presence of three or more of the following risk factors: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, elevated fasting glucose, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol. Metabolic syndrome is associated with increased kidney stone risk (Sakhaee 2008; Wong 2015; Kaur 2014; AHA 2014).

Insulin resistance, a central feature of impaired glucose metabolism and metabolic syndrome, may partly explain the link, because it increases urine acidity and has been associated with uric acid stone formation (Ahmed 2014). In fact, the American Urologic Association suggests people with recurrent uric acid kidney stones should be screened for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (Li 2014). 

Risk Factors for Uncommon Stones

Cystinuria. Cystine stones occur only in people with a genetic condition called cystinuria, in which the kidneys excrete a large amount of cystine, an amino acid that has a high tendency to form stones (Xu 2013).

Infection. Certain urinary tract infections increase the risk of struvite stones. These infections involve a type of bacteria known as urease-producing (or urea-splitting) bacteria. Some examples of urease-producing bacteria are Klebsiella, Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Enterococcus species. These bacteria can colonize the kidneys and increase risk of struvite precipitation, leading to stone formation (Xu 2013). Struvite stones are more common in women than men; infants and the elderly also have increased susceptibility (Curhan 2012; Kristensen 1987; Gettman 1999).

Kidney stones can be present in the kidney without causing symptoms for months, years, and sometimes decades (Curhan 2012). Symptoms usually occur as a result of a stone moving into a ureter. Stones under 5 mm in diameter (less than one-fifth of an inch) are often eliminated on their own (Fallon 2015; UMMC 2013).

The hallmark symptom of a kidney stone lodged in or obstructing a ureter is severe flank pain that comes on suddenly and is distinctly one-sided. The pain may wax and wane, but typically does not go away. Nausea and vomiting frequently accompany the pain, which can radiate to the front of the body or the groin, depending on where the stone is lodged (Curhan 2012). A stone that moves closer to the bladder may cause a frequent urge to urinate or a burning sensation with urination (UMMC 2013). Blood may be visible in the urine, and in some cases this is the only symptom (Curhan 2012). Fever may indicate the presence of a urinary tract infection in addition to stones (UMMC 2013).

Many people with kidney stones do not have any symptoms. For this reason, kidney stones are sometimes found during a diagnostic imaging exam such as an abdominal X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound that is being performed for another reason (Antonelli 2015).

Chronic and Recurrent Kidney Stones

After a stone is passed or surgically removed, it is typically analyzed for composition (Antonelli 2015; Curhan 2012). Diagnosis and prevention often relies on the 24-hour urine analysis, a valuable test that evaluates concentrations of calcium, magnesium, potassium, oxalate, citrate, and uric acid, as well as urine pH (LabCorp 2015). Obtaining two separate 24-hour urine analyses is a superior method of evaluation compared to a single test (Xu 2013; Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012; Healy 2012; Curhan 2012; Coe 2015).

Acute Kidney Stones

During acute kidney stone passage, blood tests are usually normal, though an elevated number of white blood cells may be seen (Curhan 2012; UMMC 2013). Red and white blood cells, as well as microscopic crystals, may be detected by urinalysis (Curhan 2012). Conditions that can cause symptoms similar to acute kidney stones include urinary tract infection, kidney infection, diverticulitis, ovarian diseases, appendicitis, and ectopic pregnancy (Aliotta 2015).

 A patient’s history, physical exam, and urinalysis often clearly indicate acute kidney stones, and diagnostic imaging may not be necessary to confirm the diagnosis in some cases (UMMC 2013; Curhan 2012). Helical computed tomography (CT) is typically used when diagnostic imaging is necessary (Curhan 2012). Ultrasound is not as sensitive as non-contrast CT but is preferred to limit radiation exposure in children and pregnant women (UMMC 2013; Aliotta 2015; Curhan 2012).

The treatment approach to kidney stones depends on a number of factors and circumstances. For example, asymptomatic stones discovered during diagnostic imaging may not be treated, but an acute symptomatic kidney stone demands an intervention, even if only hydration and painkillers for a small stone (Curhan 2012; UMMC 2013). The high recurrence rate makes long-term prevention a priority for people with a history of kidney stones (Xu 2013).

The most important aspect of treatment and prevention is identifying the type of stone the patient has. A 24-hour urinalysis with saturation can be used to evaluate the tendency of a patient’s urine to form stones. Passed stones can be directly analyzed as well. Unfortunately, the reliability of kidney stone crystal analysis is not perfect; so if you received a diagnosis of a particular stone type, but preventive treatment has failed, it may be worthwhile to ask your doctor about conducting a reanalysis of your stone(s) (UCKSETP 2015; Krambeck 2010; LabCorp 2015).

Asymptomatic Stones

Stones that do not cause symptoms may be found incidentally during an imaging test (Bansal 2009). Asymptomatic stones under 6 mm are generally left untreated. The approach to larger stones, however, may vary: some practitioners will opt for preventive lithotripsy while others will adopt a wait-and-see approach (Curhan 2012). Other factors may influence the decision to treat asymptomatic kidney stones. For instance, airline pilots are not allowed to fly with asymptomatic kidney stones, due to the possibility of grave consequences of their being incapacitated while on duty (Portis 2001).

Acute Stones

Once a diagnosis of acute kidney stones is made, the top treatment priority is usually oral or intravenous pain management. Intravenous hydration may be used, and antibiotics may be necessary when infection is present (Curhan 2012; Frassetto 2011). Infection complicated by obstruction is a medical emergency that requires placement of a drainage device (Curhan 2012).

Medications that relax the ureters and prevent ureteral spasm may be used to promote the passage of stones, a practice called medical expulsive therapy. This approach may include the use of calcium channel blockers like nifedipine (Procardia) and alpha-blockers like tamsulosin (Flomax) for four to six weeks (Antonelli 2015).

Stones larger than 10 mm or that do not respond to conservative treatment may be treated with lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or rarely, open surgery (Antonelli 2015).

Lithotripsy. Lithotripsy is the least invasive technique for treating kidney stones. In lithotripsy, shock waves are transmitted into the body, focused on the stone. This causes the stone to break into smaller fragments that can then pass more easily. This technique is also called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (Antonelli 2015).

Ureteroscopy. In ureteroscopy a scope is passed through the urethra and bladder and into the ureter. When the scope reaches the stone, the stone can be fragmented with a laser or grasped with a basket and removed (Antonelli 2015).

Nephrolithotomy and nephrolithotripsy. These procedures involve the use of a minimally invasive surgical technique: a small incision is made to access the kidney or upper ureter with a nephroscope, which is then used to fragment (nephrolithotripsy) or remove (nephrolithotomy) the stone (Vicentini 2009; Antonelli 2015).

Laparoscopic and open surgeries. With advances over the past two decades in lithotripsy and other minimally invasive techniques, open surgery is performed far less frequently. These surgical techniques for direct stone removal are reserved for cases, usually with larger stones, when other methods are not appropriate (Antonelli 2015).

Medical Preventive Treatments 

About half of all people who have had one episode of kidney stones will have another episode within seven years if no treatment is undertaken (Xu 2013). Preventive strategies depend to a large degree on the type of stone, but for all stones, proper hydration is of the utmost importance (Morton 2002; Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012).

In some cases, preventive treatment entails addressing an underlying condition that predisposes to stone formation. For instance, 10% of calcium-containing stones are caused by medical conditions, including hyperparathyroidism. However, conventional medicine considers the majority of cases idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown (Marangella 2008; Aliotta 2015; Curhan 2012).

Allopurinol. Allopurinol (Zyloprim) inhibits uric acid production in the body and is used as a treatment for both calcium oxalate and uric acid stones when uric acid is elevated (Sarig 1987; Arrabal-Polo, Arrabal-Martin 2013). Possible side effects of allopurinol include rash, digestive upset, and elevated liver enzymes (Xu 2013).

Thiazide diuretics. Thiazide diuretic medications are typically used to treat high blood pressure, but they also decrease urinary calcium. They have been found to be effective for preventing recurrence of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate stones in people with high as well as normal urine calcium concentrations (Arrabal-Polo, Arrabal-Martin 2013; Xu 2013). Examples of thiazide diuretics are hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide), chlorthalidone (Thalitone, Hygroton), and indapamide (Lozol).

The usefulness of thiazide diuretics is limited by a number of negative side effects including low blood pressure; elevated blood glucose, uric acid, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels; and magnesium, citrate, and potassium loss (Heseltine 1988; Rohlfing 1986; Xu 2013). It has been suggested that thiazides may work better if used in combination with potassium citrate therapy and a low-salt diet (Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012).

Cystinuria treatment. Medications that split cystine into two molecules are used to prevent cystine stones in people with cystinuria. Such medications include d-penicillamine (Cuprimine) and alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine. Penicillamine can have severe side effects that include bone marrow suppression, blood disorders, kidney disease, and kidney failure (NLM 2012; Sakhaee, Maalouf 2012). Captopril (Capoten) has also been used for cystine stones, and has a more favorable side effect profile (Sloand 1987; Aliotta 2015).

Bisphosphonates

Hypercalciuria (high urine calcium concentration) is associated with both calcium kidney stones and bone loss (Xu 2013; Arrabal-Polo, Sierra Giron-Prieto 2013). Some researchers are beginning to explore the effect of a class of osteoporosis medications called bisphosphonates, such as alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel), and ibandronate (Boniva), on calcium kidney stone risk (Grover 2013). These medications help keep urine calcium concentrations from rising by reducing bone breakdown and calcium loss (Bianchi 2010).

In one trial, 16 people placed on experimental bed rest for 3 weeks (in order to increase urinary calcium excretion by causing bone breakdown) and treated with 20 mg per day of the bisphosphonate alendronate had lower urine calcium concentrations, and lower calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate saturations, compared with placebo (Ruml 1995). In another trial, 70 individuals with recurrent calcium kidney stones, high urine calcium concentration, and bone loss were treated with either 70 mg per week of alendronate or 70 mg per week of alendronate plus 50 mg per day of the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide. After two years of treatment, an increase in bone mineral density and a decrease in urine calcium concentration was seen with both medication regimens, but the group treated with alendronate plus hydrochlorothiazide had more improvement than the group treated with alendronate alone (Arrabal-Polo, Arias-Santiago 2013).

While these findings are intriguing, they do not clearly establish whether alendronate or other bisphosphonates can prevent calcium kidney stone formation; in addition, some questions remain about the long-term safety of bisphosphonate use (Suresh 2014).

Sleep Position

Many people with recurrent kidney stones get them only on one side, leading some researchers to examine whether sleep position can predict the side on which stones occur. In a study of 110 unilateral (one-sided) kidney stone formers, 93 were found to sleep predominantly on one side, and of these, 71 (76%) slept on the same side as that of their stones (Shekarriz 2001). In a study in unilateral stone formers, 88% of participants with right-sided kidney stones slept right side down, and 62% of participants with left-sided stones slept left side down (Ziaee 2008).

Oxalobacter formigenes (Probiotic)

Oxalobacter formigenes (O. formigenes) is a bacterium found in the human digestive tract. It digests and metabolizes oxalate, preventing high urine oxalate and calcium oxalate kidney stones (Mogna 2014; Knight 2013). Several studies have found that antibiotic use can lead to the loss of O. formigenes colonies (Knight 2013).

One study found that patients with greater O. formigenes colonization had significantly lower urine oxalate levels (Kwak 2003). Stool cultures from recurrent calcium oxalate stone formers show that they are only about half as likely to have colonies of this bacterium compared with non-stone formers, and those with O. formigenes colonies have as much as 70% lower odds of calcium oxalate stone recurrence (Knight 2013; Kaufman 2008).

In a rodent model of severe hyperoxaluria, administration of O. formigenes as a probiotic supplement reduced urinary oxalate in just two days (Sidhu 2001). In a randomized controlled trial in 42 patients with the rare genetic condition primary hyperoxaluria, oral supplementation with O. formigenes resulted in more than twice the reduction of oxalate relative to urine creatinine compared to placebo. In those with the highest baseline oxalate concentrations, the reduction of urine oxalate was more than four times that of placebo (Hoppe 2011).

O. formigenes has been developed into a biopharmaceutical preparation and is not available as a dietary supplement at this time.

Increase Fluid Intake

Fluid intake is ordinarily the most influential factor in determining urine volume and thus kidney stone risk (Curhan 2012), and drinking adequate volumes of fluids may be the most effective intervention for people with any type of kidney stone (UMMC 2013). Most individuals who have had a kidney stone should drink at least 2 L of water per day (Arrabal-Polo, Arrabal-Martin 2013; Aliotta 2015). In a study in 199 people monitored for five years following a kidney stone episode, subjects who increased their fluid intake enough to maintain a urine volume of 2 L or more per day had less than half the risk of recurrence compared with those who did not (Borghi 1996).

Citrus juices. Lemon and orange juice are good sources of citrate, help alkalinize the urine, and appear to protect against kidney stones (UMMC 2013; Kang 2007; Haleblian 2008; Trinchieri 2002; Ferraro 2013).

Drinking lemon juice increases the amount of citrate in urine and may prevent kidney stones (UMMC 2013). A preliminary study found that daily consumption of a mixture of 2 L of water, 4 ounces of reconstituted lemon juice, and an artificial sweetener increased urine citrate concentrations and reduced stone formation in people with hypocitraturia-related kidney stones (Kang 2007).

Orange juice appears to be protective as well: in an analysis of three large studies, people who drank the most orange juice were found to be 12% less likely to develop kidney stones than those who drank the least (Ferraro 2013).

Mineral water. Mineral water combines several properties with known efficacy for preventing kidney stone disease and stone recurrence. Water dilutes urine, the minerals calcium and magnesium help bind dietary oxalate and reduce calcium oxalate crystallization, and the carbonate in mineral water alkalinizes urine and provides substrate for citrate formation (Siener 2004; Rodgers 1997; Rodgers 1998; Trinchieri 1999; Karagulle 2007).

Although several studies have demonstrated a benefit of mineral water for stone formers, further controlled studies that more clearly establish this benefit, especially compared to tap water or other beverages, are needed.

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables exert protective effects against most types of kidney stones. They generally have a high water content, which increases urine volume, have an alkalizing effect on urine, increase urinary citrate, and are naturally low in sodium and rich in potassium and magnesium. Fruits and vegetables are also high in compounds called phytates, which inhibit calcium crystal formation in the urine and are associated with a lower stone risk (Sorensen 2014; Curhan 2004; Borghi 2006).

In a study in almost 84 000 postmenopausal women, intake of fiber, fruits, and vegetables were each associated with lower risk of first-time kidney stone episodes. Comparing women with the highest to those with the lowest intakes, fiber was associated with up to a 26% risk reduction, fruits up to a 25% reduction, and vegetables up to a 22% reduction (Sorensen 2014).

Reduce Sodium Intake

Sodium increases the amount of calcium in the urine (Friedlander 2015), and high sodium intake has been correlated with increased kidney stone risk (Sorensen, Kahn 2012). In one trial, individuals with calcium kidney stone disease and high urine calcium concentrations were instructed to increase their fluid intake to 2–3 L per day. They were then randomly assigned to either a low-sodium diet group or a normal diet. After three months, those on the restricted sodium diet had lower urine calcium and oxalate concentrations than people in the normal diet group (Nouvenne 2010). Sodium restriction may also be useful for preventing recurrence of cystine stones, since lower amounts of sodium in the urine are associated with lower urine cystine concentrations (Heilberg 2013).

Reduce Sugar Intake

Several studies suggest higher consumption of refined sugar, particularly fructose and sugar-sweetened sodas, increases urine and serum uric acid levels and kidney stone risk (Ferraro 2013; Bantle 2009; Curhan 2004; Friedlander 2015; Taylor 2008).

The effects of soda and other beverages on kidney stone risk were evaluated in an analysis of three large studies that together included over 194 000 people. The authors found that drinking sugar-sweetened beverages increased stone risk: drinking one or more sugary colas per day was associated with a 23% higher risk of kidney stones compared to drinking less than one per week, while daily consumption of non-cola sugar-sweetened drinks was associated with a 33% higher risk (Ferraro 2013).

Consume Adequate Dietary Calcium

It used to be believed that calcium from diet and supplements increased kidney stone risk, and conventional physicians even advised kidney stone patients to reduce calcium consumption. However, a rigorous review of 10 studies found calcium supplementation does not increase stone risk (Candelas 2012), and low calcium intake has now been linked to increased kidney stone risk (Martini 2002). For a more detailed discussion of calcium and kidney stones, see the “Integrative Interventions” section.

Reduce Dietary Purine Intake

Purines (nitrogenous organic compounds that form part of the chemical structure of DNA) can be metabolized into uric acid, which can increase the risk of uric acid and calcium oxalate stones. Uric acid comes from the breakdown of purines which are made in the body by normal metabolic processes, or may be present in the diet (Boza 2000; Yamaoka 1996; Ishikawa 2013). Foods highest in purines are organ meats and seafood, legumes, and brewers and baker’s yeast (UMMC 2013; PAMF 2010; Mayo Clinic 2015a). Eating a high-purine diet can increase both urine and blood uric acid levels (Kenny 2010). People with kidney stones related to high uric acid levels are typically advised to avoid purine-rich foods (UMMC 2013), but a low-animal protein or vegetarian diet that alkalinizes the urine is more important for preventing uric acid stone formation (Kenny 2010; Heilberg 2013; Kanbara 2010).

Reduce Dietary Oxalate Intake

While high urine oxalate concentrations increase risk of calcium oxalate stones, and a low-oxalate diet has traditionally been recommended for preventing recurrence of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Oxalate is present in many foods, and combines with calcium to for calcium oxalate stones (Xu 2013; Friedlander 2015; Assimos 2004).

Digestive diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases, and bariatric weight loss surgery can result in increased absorption of oxalate from food, so stone formers with these histories may benefit from avoiding high-oxalate foods (Xu 2013; Nazzal 2015). Beets, okra, spinach, Swiss chard, French fries, sweet potatoes, nuts, tea, chocolate, and soy products are examples of oxalate-rich foods that may be eliminated or restricted on a low-oxalate diet (Mayo Clinic 2015b; Cleveland Clinic 2015). Adequate calcium intake may ameliorates risk of calcium oxalate stone formation by binding oxalate in the gut and preventing its absorption (Trinchieri 2013; Sorensen, Kahn 2012; Nazzal 2015).

The DASH Diet and Kidney Stones The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet emphasizes fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, and limits saturated fat, sodium, total fat, cholesterol, refined grains, sweets, and red and processed meats (Taylor 2009; Noori 2014). In an analysis of the nutrition data of more than 241 000 participants from three large population studies, each individual’s diet was graded for adherence to a low-sodium DASH-style diet. People with the highest scores, reflecting the closest adherence to DASH guidelines, were 40–45% less likely to develop kidney stones than people with the lowest scores (Taylor 2009). In another study, 57 subjects with recurrent kidney stones and high urinary oxalate were randomly assigned to a low-sodium DASH diet or a low-oxalate diet group. Both diets were associated with improvements in urine chemistry with respect to kidney stone risk, but people on the DASH diet had higher urine pH (more alkaline urine) and greater urine citrate concentrations than those on the low-oxalate diet (Noori 2014). The DASH diet’s high citrate and calcium content may account for lower kidney stone risk among those adhering to this dietary approach (Taylor 2009).

Magnesium

Magnesium favorably impacts calcium oxalate stone-forming risk through multiple mechanisms. Magnesium binds oxalate in the digestive tract and inhibits the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in urine (Kohri 1988; Massey 2005). And higher magnesium consumption is significantly associated with lower risk of kidney stones (Negri 2013; Zimmermann 2005).

A study in over 45 000 US male health professionals found that those in the highest one-fifth of magnesium intake had a 29% lower risk of developing kidney stones (Taylor 2004). Another study in 311 patients with kidney stone disease evaluated magnesium levels in urine, a known marker of dietary intake of magnesium. In this population, higher urine magnesium was significantly correlated with lower urine oxalate (Eisner 2012).

The timing of magnesium supplement consumption may be important in the context of kidney stones. Magnesium must be present in the digestive tract at the same time as oxalate-containing foods in order to bind dietary oxalate and prevent it from being absorbed into general circulation, where the oxalate then has to be filtered by the kidneys, and is excreted into the urine. In a clinical study of six healthy volunteers, researchers noted administration of a magnesium supplement together with oxalate decreased oxalate absorption, whereas consumption of magnesium supplements 12 hours apart from oxalate administration did not have this effect (Zimmermann 2005).

Calcium

A low-calcium diet is associated with a higher risk for calcium oxalate stones (Xu 2013). High dietary calcium, on the other hand, even when accompanied by a large increase in oxalate consumption, has been demonstrated to decrease kidney stone risk rather than increase it (Hess 1998; Sorensen, Kahn 2012; Taylor 2004). This is thought to be due to calcium’s ability to bind dietary oxalate in the intestines, which prevents oxalate absorption into the bloodstream, and eventually the kidneys and urine (Nazzal 2015). Consuming adequate calcium through diet and supplementation is associated with higher bone-mineral density (Napoli 2007). This may be another way adequate calcium intake helps prevent kidney stones. As bone mineral density decreases, urinary calcium content and stone risk increase (Arrabal-Polo, Sierra Giron-Prieto 2013). Bone resorption, or the breakdown of bone, causes calcium to leach into the blood and eventually the urine, increasing stone risk. Adequate calcium intake reduces bone resorption, conferring protection against kidney stones (Ettinger 2014; Heaney 2008; Martini 2002). 

In a study in over 45 000 male health professionals without kidney stones who were followed for up to 14 years, men under the age of 60 who were in the highest one-fifth of dietary calcium consumption had a 31% lower risk of kidney stones compared with the one-fifth who consumed the least calcium (Taylor 2004). Another study in over 78 000 women without kidney stone disease found that higher dietary calcium was associated with a 5‒28% reduction in kidney stone risk, and a study in over 96 000 younger women without kidney stones found that those in the highest one-fifth of dietary calcium consumption had a 27% lower risk of kidney stones compared with those in the lowest one-fifth (Sorensen, Kahn 2012; Curhan 2004).

Calcium supplements improve urine chemistry parameters and lower kidney stone risk, even in those on a low-oxalate diet. A study in 32 healthy young men with no history of kidney stones found that calcium supplementation, combined with a low-oxalate diet, lowered urine oxalate (Stitchantrakul 2004).

It has been suggested that calcium supplements should be taken with meals in order to bind the maximal amount of dietary oxalate (Domrongkitchaiporn 2004; Heilberg 2013).

Mineral Citrates

The most common types of kidney stones, calcium oxalate and uric acid, tend to form in acidic urine. Formation of the most uncommon kidney stones, cystine stones, also occurs in acidic urine (Frassetto 2011). Citrate protects against these types of stones by alkalinizing urine, binding calcium in the gut and in the urine, and inhibiting calcium oxalate crystallization (Goldberg 1989; Nicar 1987; Krieger 2015; Berg 1992). It is not surprising, then, that low urine citrate is a common finding in patients with these types of stones (Caudarella 2009). Mineral citrates, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, are used in clinical practice and in research to increase urinary citrate, alkalinize urine, and reduce the rate of stone formation (Caudarella 2009; del Valle 2013; Sakhaee 2004; Ettinger 1997).

Magnesium, potassium, and calcium citrate. Both magnesium and citrate inhibit calcium oxalate crystal formation, though the combination of the two may be more effective than either alone (Rodgers 1999).

In a randomized controlled trial in 64 people with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones, three years of potassium-magnesium citrate supplementation providing about 255 mg of magnesium resulted in an 85% reduction in kidney stone risk compared with placebo (Ettinger 1997). In a double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 20 participants who were put on bed rest for five weeks (in order to increase urinary calcium excretion), potassium-magnesium citrate supplementation effectively alkalinized the urine, increased citrate concentration and reduced uric acid concentration in the urine, and reduced calcium oxalate crystallization potential (Zerwekh 2007).  

Studies that used several different mineral preparations of potassium and magnesium found that adding a magnesium supplement to potassium citrate therapy, or using potassium-magnesium citrate, yielded superior results for improving urine chemistry compared to treatment without magnesium (Jaipakdee 2004; Kato 2004).

Potassium citrate is used in medicine to alkalinize urine, increase urine citrate, inhibit aggregation of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate crystals, and reduce the risk of kidney stones (Arrabal-Polo, Arrabal-Martin 2013; Xu 2013; Sakhaee, Griffith 2012).

The dosage of potassium citrate used to prevent kidney stones is generally 1200–2400 mg per day, a prescription-strength dose that frequently causes digestive upset, making it intolerable for some people (Xu 2013). Potassium citrate dietary supplements usually do not contain more than 99 mg of potassium per pill. Potassium citrate is a less concentrated source of urine-alkalinizing citrate than the magnesium or calcium forms of citrate (Higdon 2010).

A study that used a supplement containing calcium citrate and potassium citrate improved urine chemistry by reducing acidity and increasing urinary citrate in people who had undergone gastric bypass surgery. The investigators concluded that potassium-calcium citrate might be helpful for decreasing kidney stone risk in this population (Sakhaee, Griffith 2012).

Probiotics

The bacterial population of the gastrointestinal tract may play an important role in oxalate breakdown and metabolism, and thus in the prevention of kidney stones (Miller 2013; Murphy 2009).

Several genera of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, appear to be capable of metabolizing oxalate, thus reducing urinary oxalate and decreasing kidney stone risk. In an uncontrolled trial, six people with calcium oxalate kidney stone disease and high urinary oxalate concentrations consumed a supplement containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains for four weeks. Urinary oxalate concentrations dropped by nearly half at the end of the study (Campieri 2001). In a subsequent trial of 10 patients with excessive intestinal oxalate absorption (caused by several different medical conditions), the patients were administered a probiotic formula that contained Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. Average urine oxalate fell by 19% after one month on a dosage of 8.5 billion bacteria daily; during the second month, oxalate excretion was reduced by 24% at a dosage of two per day (Lieske 2005). However, later trials using the same probiotic formulation were unable to demonstrate the same beneficial effect (Lieske 2010; Goldfarb 2007).

Another preliminary trial examined the effect of a probiotic supplement containing several Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strainsin 11 healthy people. Oxalate absorption was reduced after four weeks of probiotic supplementation, an effect largely attributable to the marked reduction observed in individuals who were high oxalate absorbers at the beginning of the study (Okombo 2010). Another study in 14 stone-forming individuals without hyperoxaluria administered a probiotic supplementthree times per day after meals, for two weeks, along with a high-oxalate diet. Half the study subjects experienced a reduction in urinary oxalate; the greatest reduction was in the two individuals who had the greatest increase in urinary oxalate during the high-oxalate diet (Ferraz 2009). A laboratory study of different bacterial strains found that Lactobacillus species exhibited greater oxalate-degrading ability compared with Bifidobacteria (Mogna 2014). 

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 deficiency affects as much as 24% of US adults, and may in part be induced by a high-protein diet. Inadequate vitamin B6 increases urine oxalate and kidney stone risk in laboratory animals and humans, and hyperoxaluria has been successfully reduced with vitamin B6 supplementation (Murthy 1982; Nath 1990; Kim 2014; Mitwalli 1988; Massey 2003). In a 14-year study in 85 557 women, kidney stone risk was 34% lower in women who consumed the most vitamin B6 per day from diet and supplements compared with those who consumed the least (Curhan 1999). In one study, 149 people with recurrent kidney stones were treated with 100 mg three times daily of magnesium oxide plus 10 mg once daily of vitamin B6 for 4.5‒6 years. The recurrence rate fell from an average of 1.3 per year to 0.1 per year during treatment, a 92% reduction (Prien 1974).  

Fish Oil

Some studies have found that supplementation with the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from fish oil may reduce kidney stone risk by lowering urine calcium. In one study, people with a history of kidney stones were treated with a short course (three months) and long course (18 months) of 1800 mg EPA daily. Urine calcium concentrations dropped in people who entered the study with high urinary calcium, but not in those with normal urinary calcium (Yasui 2001). In another study, 15 healthy people were given 900 mg EPA and 600 mg DHA daily for 30 days; excessive urinary oxalate excretion and calcium oxalate saturation was decreased at the end of the trial (Siener 2011). These studies suggest a possible role for fish oil in calcium oxalate kidney stone prevention.

Chanca Piedra (Phyllanthus niruri)

Phyllanthus niruri (P. niruri), also sometimes referred to as Chanca Piedra or “stone breaker,” is a plant widely distributed throughout the world. It sometimes described by members of the integrative medicine community as potentially having a variety of health benefits, including potentially reducing the size and number of kidney stones. The potential effects of P. niruri on kidney health may be related to various bioactive constituents, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. The plant may also relax the smooth muscle in the urinary tract, which would theoretically facilitate the elimination of kidney deposits into the urine (Kaur 2017; Dhawan 2020). However, clinical evidence available as of late 2024 is mixed and more research is needed before conclusions can be drawn as to the effectiveness of P. niruri in the context of kidney stones (Dhawan 2020).

In a randomized controlled trial, 69 people that had formed calcium kidney stones received 450 mg of P. niruri (freeze-dried 2% aqueous extract) or a placebo three times daily for three months. Overall, there were no significant changes in urinary parameters before and after supplementation; nor were there significant differences in calcium stones or pain relief. However, in a subset of people with hypercalciuria, P. niruri induced a significantreduction in mean urinary calcium (Nishiura 2004).

P. niruri has also been studied in conjunction with shock wave therapy lithotripsy for kidney stones. A randomized controlled trial evaluated 150 people with calcium oxalate kidney stones as large as 25 mm in diameter. All participants received 1–3 extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy sessions. After treatment, 78 patients received 2 grams daily of a branded P. niruri extract, called Uriston, for at least three months, while the rest served as controls. At the end of follow up at 180 days, the stone-free rate (defined as the absence of any stone or residual fragments less than 3 mm) of caliceal stones was 93.7% in those treated with P. niruri versus 70.8% in the control group, which was a significant difference (Micali 2006).

A smaller uncontrolled trial was also suggestive of potential benefit, though findings were preliminary (Pucci 2018).

N-Acetylcysteine

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is used by cells to replenish glutathione and detoxify free radicals (Zhang 2011; Rushworth 2014). A study with separate laboratory, preclinical, and clinical components found all three lines of evidence indicated potential for NAC to prevent the formation of calcium oxalate crystals and kidney stones. In the clinical phase of this trial, 17 people with calcium oxalate kidney stones were treated with 3 g per day of NAC. After one week of treatment, the number of large urinary calcium oxalate crystals was reduced by 60%, and three people experienced spontaneous passage of stones (Fan 1994). Findings from laboratory and animal studies provide additional evidence that NAC may reduce calcium oxalate crystallization and protect kidney cells from the damaging effects of calcium oxalate (Bijarnia 2008; Fishman 2013; Davalos 2010). NAC has also demonstrated activity that may help improve insulin sensitivity and protect against type 2 diabetes through multiple mechanisms (Lasram 2015). Since insulin resistance appears to be associated with kidney stone risk (Assimos 2004; Wong 2015), NAC holds promise as an integrative strategy for kidney stone prevention. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E protects lipid molecules in cells and in the blood from oxidative damage and stress (Princen 1995; Ni 2012). In a laboratory study, vitamin E protected animal kidney cells from oxidative damage due to high oxalate conditions, suggesting it may play a role in preventing crystal deposition and stone initiation. The protective effect of vitamin E seen in this study was enhanced by the addition of the antioxidant vitamin C (Thamilselvan 2014). Animal studies have found that vitamin E inhibits stone initiation by reducing calcium oxalate crystallization, inhibiting crystal deposition in kidney tubule cells, and protecting against oxidative injury in kidney cells (Huang 2006; Thamilselvan 2005).

Green Tea and Catechins

Green tea and green tea extracts, which are rich in phytochemicals called catechins, have been shown to inhibit calcium oxalate stone formation (Jeong 2006; Itoh 2005; Graham 1992). In an animal study, the flavonoids catechin and epicatechin were evaluated for their ability to modulate kidney stone biochemical risk factors. Compared with rats given no treatment, those that received catechin or epicatechin had lower kidney calcium and fewer crystals deposited in the kidneys. The authors of the study suggested the flavonoids may have protected the interior of the kidneys from oxidative damage that could initiate stone formation (Grases 2009).

Another study, with laboratory and rodent model components, investigated the effects of catechin on calcium oxalate-mediated kidney damage. In the laboratory setting, catechin protected kidney cells from the oxidative stress ordinarily induced by calcium oxalate. In the animal component of the study, catechin appeared to protect rats from the oxidative effects of calcium oxalate (Zhai 2013).

Quercetin

The flavonoid quercetin has been studied in laboratory and preclinical models for its protective effect on kidney stone formation. One animal trial compared a mixture of quercetin and the related molecule hyperoside to potassium citrate for treating oxalate stones. The quercetin-hyperoside mixture decreased the amount of crystal deposits in kidney tissue compared with potassium citrate, and antioxidant enzyme activity was increased (Zhu 2014). In another study with both animal and lab components, quercetin protected against oxalate-induced damage in both settings, and protected against calcium oxalate crystal formation in rat kidneys (Park 2008).