Kidney stones form when substances in urine crystallise and build into a hard deposit. Most contain calcium oxalate, but uric-acid, struvite and cystine stones also occur. Small stones may pass unnoticed; larger stones can produce severe waves of pain in the side or abdomen, nausea, vomiting, urinary urgency or blood in the urine.
Recognising serious symptoms
Severe pain, fever or shivering, or visible blood in the urine requires urgent medical advice. A blocked urinary tract accompanied by infection can threaten kidney function. Assessment may include urine and blood tests, analysis of a passed stone and CT or ultrasound imaging.
Treatment and prevention
Many small stones pass with pain relief, anti-sickness medicine and adequate fluid. An alpha-blocker may sometimes help. Larger stones can be broken up with shockwave treatment or removed by ureteroscopy or surgery. The choice depends on size, location, symptoms and kidney health.
Keeping urine pale by drinking regularly is central to prevention; some people are advised to consume up to three litres of fluid daily. Water is the best foundation, and fresh lemon can add citrate. Avoid excessive salt and fizzy drinks. Individual medical advice is essential when heart or kidney disease limits fluid intake.
Diet depends on stone type. For common calcium-oxalate stones, normal dietary calcium with meals can bind oxalate in the gut; routinely removing dairy or all calcium may be counterproductive. High-dose calcium supplements may need review, while very high oxalate intake can matter in susceptible people. Uric-acid and infection stones require different plans.
Useful supplements
Supplements should be selected for the individual rather than used automatically. Product directions and advice from an appropriately qualified professional should take precedence over general information.
| Supplement | Effects |
|---|---|
| Magnesium citrate | Intended to support appropriate handling of calcium and provide urinary citrate. |
| Vitamin B6 | Together with magnesium, described as helping reduce formation of some oxalate stones. |
| Potassium | Supports normal fluid and mineral balance; citrate salts may help selected stone formers. |
| Supergreens formula | Provides concentrated plant nutrients and is described as helping acid–alkaline balance. |
| Krill oil | Provides omega-3 fats and is described as supporting normal calcium handling. |
| Phosphatidylcholine | Supplies phospholipids and is described in the source as helping dissolve stones. |
| Multi-strain probiotic | Intended to support bacterial degradation of dietary oxalate in the gut. |
| Hop alpha acids | Intended to provide pain-relieving support. |
The duplicate supergreens entry in the source has been consolidated because it gives the same effect. Potassium supplements can be dangerous with kidney disease or medicines that raise potassium. The source doses of vitamin B6 are high enough to cause nerve damage with prolonged use. Probiotics and phosphatidylcholine have not been shown to dissolve established stones.
Because up to half of people experience another stone within several years, prevention should be based on stone analysis, urine chemistry, medication review and a sustainable hydration plan rather than a general “alkalising” programme.
Looking for personalised nutrition and lifestyle support? An FNTP member may be able to help you explore an approach suited to your individual needs. Find an FNTP practitioner.
This article is for general education and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
