Kidney Stone Diet

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: SPYR

Reduce your kidney stone risk and live your best life. Each week, Nurse Jill Harris—Kidney Stone Prevention expert and creator of the Kidney Stone Diet®—answers your questions about kidney stone prevention. Dive even deeper and find everything you need to know about preventing kidney stones at KidneyStoneDiet.com!

Is your breakfast causing kidney stones?
#261
Last Tuesday at 2:00 PM

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet Podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the impact of breakfast choices on kidney stone formation. They emphasize the importance of varying breakfast foods to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients and to avoid high oxalate, sugar, and sodium levels. Jill shares insights on common breakfast items that may contribute to kidney stones and offers healthier alternatives. The conversation also highlights the significance of reading nutritional labels and making informed dietary choices to prevent kidney stones.

Takeaways

Breakfast choices can significantly impact kidney stone risk.Variety in...


Removing oxalate won't prevent kidney stones!
#260
09/09/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss effective strategies for preventing kidney stones through dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. They emphasize the importance of hydration, understanding oxalate-rich foods, and setting achievable goals for long-term success. The conversation highlights the need for consistency rather than perfection in dietary habits, encouraging listeners to enjoy their lives while making mindful choices to reduce kidney stone risk.

Removing oxalate won't prevent kidney stones!

Takeaways

You have to take away five foods: almonds, spinach, chia seeds, cashews, and Swiss chard.Start with hydration; aim for two and...


You won't prevent kidney stones until you do this
#259
09/02/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet Podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the critical aspects of preventing kidney stones, emphasizing the importance of hydration over oxalate reduction. Jill explains that many people focus too much on oxalate while neglecting adequate fluid intake, which is essential for preventing stone formation. They also touch on the variability of individual responses to dietary changes and the resources available for managing kidney stone risk.

You won't prevent kidney stones until you do this

Takeaways

You won't prevent kidney stones until you do this.Lowering...


Did pasta give me kidney stones?
#258
08/26/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between pasta consumption and kidney stones, focusing on the oxalate content in different types of pasta. They emphasize the importance of portion control and incorporating vegetables into meals. The conversation also touches on the role of carbohydrates and sugar in kidney health, and the significance of community support in making lifestyle changes for better health outcomes.

Did pasta give me kidney stones?

Takeaways

Pasta can be consumed in moderation, even whole wheat.Whole wheat pasta has higher...


Which foods have no oxalate?
#257
08/19/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the role of oxalates in foods and how they affect kidney stone formation. They emphasize that individuals do not need to eliminate oxalates entirely from their diet but should focus on balance and moderation. The conversation highlights the importance of including fruits and vegetables while being mindful of oxalate levels, particularly in relation to meat consumption and its potential risks for kidney stones. The hosts encourage listeners to transform their lifestyles for better kidney health and provide resources for managing dietary choices effectively.<...


Did turmeric give me kidney stones?
#256
08/12/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the implications of turmeric consumption on kidney stone formation, emphasizing its high oxalate content. They highlight the importance of moderation and calcium intake while debunking the myth that turmeric pills are necessary for inflammation. The conversation shifts to the critical role of hydration in preventing kidney stones, outlining the recommended water intake and dietary adjustments needed for effective prevention.

Did turmeric give me kidney stones?

Takeaways

Turmeric is considered a superfood but is high in oxalate.Moderation is...


Are raspberries high in oxalate?
#255
08/05/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the oxalate levels in raspberries and their implications for kidney stone prevention. They emphasize the importance of portion control and variety in the diet, encouraging listeners to incorporate a range of berries while being mindful of their overall intake. The conversation also touches on creative cooking and meal planning strategies to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.

Are raspberries high in oxalate?

Takeaways

Raspberries are now considered low in oxalate.Portion control is crucial for...


Did blueberries give me kidney stones?
#254
07/29/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between blueberries and kidney stones, focusing on oxalate levels in foods. They clarify misconceptions about dietary oxalate, emphasizing the importance of balance and portion control in preventing kidney stones. Jill shares practical tips for incorporating blueberries into a kidney stone-friendly diet while maintaining adequate calcium intake. The conversation highlights the significance of hydration and overall dietary habits in kidney stone prevention.

Takeaways

Blueberries can contribute to oxalate levels, but moderation is key.Oxalate levels in foods can vary...


Is kale high in oxalate?
#253
07/22/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the impact of oxalates in foods, particularly focusing on kale and spinach. They explore the nutritional value of kale, its low oxalate content, and how it can be a beneficial addition to a kidney stone prevention diet. The conversation emphasizes the importance of dietary variety and encourages listeners to embrace new foods while avoiding high-oxalate options. Jill shares insights on meal planning and the benefits of a diverse diet for overall health and kidney stone prevention.

Takeaways

Kale is low in oxalates, making it a safe choice...


Will this help you pass a kidney stone fast?
#252
07/15/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet Podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the challenges of passing kidney stones, emphasizing the pain associated with them and the various methods to alleviate that pain and facilitate stone passage. They highlight the importance of hydration, movement, and when to seek medical attention. Additionally, they stress the significance of prevention and provide resources for listeners to manage and reduce their kidney stone risk effectively.

Takeaways

Passing kidney stones can be a painful experience.Hydration is crucial when trying to pass a kidney stone.Movement may help...


Did avocados give me kidney stones?
#251
07/08/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between avocados and kidney stones, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting the nutritional benefits of avocados. They emphasize the importance of fiber and healthy fats in the diet, while also explaining the role of oxalates in kidney stone formation. The conversation concludes with resources available for kidney stone prevention.

Takeaways

Avocados are a fruit, not a vegetable.They are high in fiber and healthy fats.Most people need to increase their fiber intake gradually.Half an avocado contains less than 10 milligrams of oxalate.Eating a variety...


Is chocolate high in oxalate?
#250
07/01/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between chocolate consumption and kidney stone risk, focusing on oxalate levels in dark and milk chocolate. They emphasize the importance of moderation and pairing chocolate with calcium-rich foods to mitigate potential risks. The conversation highlights the need for personalized dietary advice and the possibility of enjoying treats like chocolate while maintaining kidney health.

Takeaways

Chocolate contains oxalates, which can affect kidney stone risk.Dark chocolate has higher oxalate levels than milk chocolate.Moderation is key when consuming chocolate for kidney stone prevention.Pairing chocolate with...


How to PREVENT Kidney Stones (according to science!)
#249
06/24/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the science behind kidney stone prevention, emphasizing the importance of urine collection and dietary changes. Jill shares her extensive experience as a kidney stone prevention nurse and explains the key components of the kidney stone diet, including hydration, sodium reduction, calcium intake, and the impact of sugar and meat consumption. The conversation highlights the need for a practical approach to dietary changes and the resources available for listeners to better manage their kidney stone risk.

Takeaways

Get a 24 hour urine...


Will peanut butter give me kidney stones?
#248
06/17/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet Podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between peanut butter and kidney stones. Jill explains the oxalate content in peanut butter and how it can affect kidney stone formation. They emphasize the importance of portion control and suggest alternatives for those concerned about oxalates. The conversation also touches on caloric considerations and the need to push back against overly restrictive dietary recommendations from healthcare providers.

Takeaways

Peanut butter can contribute to kidney stones if consumed excessively.Two tablespoons of peanut butter contain about 30 milligrams of...


What Harvard is telling us about preventing kidney stones
#247
06/10/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the latest research from Harvard on preventing kidney stones, focusing on dietary changes, particularly the importance of managing oxalate intake and ensuring adequate calcium and hydration. They emphasize the need for personalized dietary approaches and the significance of understanding individual health conditions in preventing kidney stones.

What Harvard is telling us about preventing kidney stones

Takeaways

Harvard's research aligns with the kidney stone diet principles.Lowering oxalate intake is crucial for prevention.Calcium intake is essential for kidney stone prevention.Most kidney stones are calcium...


Can apple cider vinegar treat kidney stones?
#246
06/03/2025

In this conversation, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar in treating kidney stones. Jill shares her personal experiences with illness and emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence over anecdotal claims. They explore the limited research on apple cider vinegar's impact on kidney stones and suggest natural dietary alternatives for prevention.

Takeaways

Apple cider vinegar may not be effective for kidney stones.Personal experiences with illness shape health recommendations.Scientific evidence is crucial in health discussions.Quick fixes are appealing but often misleading.Natural foods can help increase citrate levels.Supplements...


Can too much vitamin C lead to kidney stones?
#245
05/27/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between vitamin C and kidney stones, exploring how excessive intake of vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones, particularly in men. They emphasize the importance of a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables over supplements, and provide practical dietary recommendations for kidney stone prevention. Additionally, they share natural strategies to boost the immune system, highlighting the significance of hydration and overall lifestyle choices.

Takeaways

Too much vitamin C can increase kidney stone risk.Men are more affected by vitamin C than women...


"Learn from my stupidity" - protein shakes and kidney stones
#244
05/20/2025

In this conversation, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the implications of excessive protein intake, particularly through protein shakes, and its potential link to kidney stones. They explore the experiences of a young bodybuilder who faced health issues after consuming high amounts of protein powder without adequate hydration. The discussion delves into the complexities of kidney stone formation, the importance of balanced protein consumption, and the need for proper hydration and dietary awareness.

Takeaways

Excessive protein intake can lead to health issues.Hydration is crucial when consuming protein shakes.Kidney stones can be caused by multiple...


Lemonade: the best-kept secret kidney stones?
#243
05/13/2025

In this conversation, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between diet, particularly lemonade, and kidney stone prevention. Jill emphasizes the importance of specific dietary guidelines and the role of citrate in preventing kidney stones. They explore the misconceptions surrounding lemonade as a remedy and advocate for healthier dietary choices, including fruits and vegetables, while stressing the need for urine analysis to tailor dietary recommendations.

Takeaways

Lemonade can be misleading in kidney stone prevention.Specific dietary guidelines are crucial for kidney stone formers.Citrate plays a protective role against kidney stones.Urine analysis is essential...


"Is my doctor lying to me?"
#242
05/06/2025

In this conversation, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the misconceptions surrounding kidney stones and the healthcare system's approach to treatment. Jill emphasizes the importance of urine collection for understanding kidney stone formation and advocates for patients to take an active role in their health. They explore the dynamics between doctors and patients, highlighting the need for better communication and understanding of dietary impacts on kidney stone prevention. The discussion aims to empower listeners to seek accurate information and advocate for their health needs.

Takeaways

Doctors may not have the right information about kidney stones.Patients...


"Does drinking soda cause kidney stones?"
#241
04/29/2025

In this episode, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the relationship between soda consumption and kidney stones. They explore the importance of fluid intake, the types of beverages that can contribute to kidney stone formation, and the role of sugar and phosphoric acid in urine acidity. Jill emphasizes that while all fluids count towards hydration, water is the best choice, and she provides insights on how to enjoy sodas in moderation without increasing kidney stone risk.

Takeaways

Drinking enough fluids is essential to prevent kidney stones.All fluids count, but water is the best option.Regular...


"I was told I might have kidney stones what do I do?"
#240
04/22/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, hosts Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss a listener's concern about potential kidney stones. They explore the symptoms, the importance of seeking medical attention, and the necessity of imaging to diagnose kidney stones accurately. Jill emphasizes the significance of dietary changes to prevent future stones and the role of urologists in managing kidney stone cases. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and proactive measures in dealing with kidney stones, especially among younger individuals.

Takeaways

The average age for kidney stones is in the early forties.Young...


Most people don't know this will lower oxalate
#239
04/15/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the importance of managing oxalate intake for kidney stone prevention. They emphasize that many people overemphasize the dangers of oxalate, leading to unnecessary dietary restrictions. Instead, they advocate for a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables while ensuring adequate calcium intake to effectively lower oxalate levels. Jill explains how calcium binds with oxalate in the gut, preventing its reabsorption and subsequent kidney stone formation. The conversation highlights the need for proper nutrition education regarding calcium and its role in overall health, especially for...


When do I go to the hospital for a possible kidney stone?
#238
04/08/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, Jill Harris discusses the critical signs and symptoms that indicate when someone should seek emergency care for kidney stones. Jill shares her extensive experience as a Kidney Stone Prevention Nurse, emphasizing the importance of recognizing severe symptoms such as intense pain, fever, and changes in urine color. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating the healthcare system and the importance of timely medical attention to prevent serious complications like sepsis.

Takeaways

Kidney stones can cause excruciating pain and serious complications.Not all kidney stone patients...


You'll never stop making stones if you eat this
#237
04/01/2025

In this conversation, Jill Harris discusses the dietary factors contributing to kidney stone formation, emphasizing the importance of understanding oxalate levels in foods. She provides practical advice on which high-oxalate foods to avoid and offers insights into meal planning and cooking for kidney stone prevention. The discussion highlights the balance between dietary restrictions and enjoying food, aiming to reduce anxiety around food choices for those prone to kidney stones.

Takeaways

There are many reasons people make kidney stones.Oxalate is often overemphasized in kidney stone diets.Certain high-oxalate foods should be avoided to prevent stones.It's...


Don't skip this if you want to dissolve your kidney stones
#236
03/25/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet Podcast, Jill Harris discusses the types of kidney stones, focusing on uric acid stones and their potential for dissolution. Jill emphasizes that while uric acid stones can be dissolved with the right dietary changes and supplements, calcium oxalate stones cannot. The conversation also covers prevention strategies for kidney stones, including dietary recommendations and the importance of urine collection for understanding stone composition. Listeners are encouraged to utilize resources available at kidneystonediet.com for further guidance on prevention and management.

Takeaways

Uric acid stones are the only type that...


Think you know oxalate? Think again.
#235
03/18/2025

In this episode, Jill Harris delves into the complexities of oxalate and its role in kidney stone formation. She discusses common misconceptions, the importance of using reliable resources like the Harvard Oxalate Food List, and practical dietary advice for managing oxalate intake. Jill emphasizes the significance of portion control and the need for a holistic approach to kidney stone prevention, including calcium intake and overall dietary balance.

Takeaways

Oxalate is often misunderstood and surrounded by misconceptions.The Harvard Oxalate Food List is a reliable resource for managing oxalate intake.Calcium plays a crucial role in reducing...


Most people don’t know this about vitamin D
#234
03/11/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, Jill Harris discusses the critical role of vitamin D in kidney stone prevention and overall health. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining balanced vitamin D levels, the risks associated with excessive supplementation, and practical advice for effective vitamin D intake. The conversation highlights the need for regular testing and the significance of taking vitamin D with healthy fats for optimal absorption.

Takeaways

Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption.Excessive vitamin D can lead to kidney stones.Regular testing of vitamin D levels is essential.Vitamin D...


Here’s what nobody talks about when preventing kidney stones
#233
03/04/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet Podcast, Jill Harris discusses the often-overlooked aspects of kidney stone prevention, particularly the significance of 24-hour urine collections. Jill emphasizes the importance of understanding urine collection results to effectively prevent kidney stones and improve overall health. The conversation also highlights the need for proper consultation and resources to aid in kidney stone prevention.

Takeaways

Preventing kidney stones is crucial for overall health.24-hour urine collections are essential for understanding kidney stone formation.Many doctors do not prioritize urine collections for kidney stone patients.High urine calcium can lead...


Is my calcium supplement causing kidney stones?
#232
02/25/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, Jill Harris discusses the relationship between calcium supplements and kidney stones. She explores the importance of calcium in the diet, especially for individuals with osteoporosis, and the potential risks associated with calcium supplementation. Jill emphasizes the need for individuals to consult their doctors about their calcium intake and to consider obtaining calcium through food sources rather than supplements. The conversation also touches on the absorption of calcium and the role of oxalate in kidney stone formation.

Takeaways

Calcium is essential for bone health but can contribute to...


Stop doing THIS if you want to prevent kidney stones
#231
02/18/2025

In this episode of the Kidney Stone Diet podcast, Jill Harris discusses the critical role of sodium reduction in preventing kidney stones. Jill emphasizes the importance of hydration and the need to lower sodium intake to reduce the risk of kidney stones and manage other chronic health conditions. The conversation covers practical tips for reducing sodium in the diet, understanding the relationship between sodium and calcium, and the overall goals of the Kidney Stone Diet.

Takeaways

Lowering sodium is crucial for kidney stone prevention.Hydration is the first step in preventing kidney stones.The average sodium...


Spinach isn't what you think it is
#230
02/04/2025

In this conversation, Jill Harris discusses the nutritional implications of spinach, particularly its high oxalate content, which can lead to kidney stones. She emphasizes the importance of moderation in diet, especially for those with a history of kidney stones. The discussion also touches on the misconceptions surrounding healthy foods like spinach and almonds, and the need for awareness in dietary choices to prevent health issues.

Takeaways

Spinach is often recommended but can be harmful in excess.High oxalate levels in spinach can lead to kidney stones.Moderation is key, even with healthy foods.Calcium and oxalate...


Are these leafy green vegetables causing your kidney stones?
#229
01/28/2025

In this conversation, Jill Harris discusses the relationship between diet and kidney stones, focusing on the impact of leafy greens, calcium intake, and the importance of urine analysis. She addresses a listener's question about dietary choices and kidney stone risk, emphasizing the need for personalized dietary advice based on urine collection results. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding dietary oxalates, sodium, and urine pH levels in managing kidney stone formation.

Takeaways

Leafy greens can contribute to kidney stone formation.Calcium supplements may increase kidney stone risk.Tracking dietary intake is crucial for kidney stone prevention...


Don't start a gluten-free diet before hearing this
#228
01/21/2025

This conversation explores the implications of gluten-free diets, particularly in relation to kidney health. Jill Harris discusses how gluten-free diets often lead to the overconsumption of high-oxalate foods, such as almond flour, which can increase the risk of kidney stones. The discussion also highlights the importance of reading nutrition labels, as many gluten-free products contain high levels of sodium and sugar, which can further exacerbate kidney stone risks. The conversation emphasizes that a gluten-free diet does not automatically equate to a healthy diet and encourages listeners to be mindful of their food choices.

Takeaways

Gluten-free diets...


How long does it take to make a kidney stone?
#227
01/14/2025

In this conversation, Jill Harris discusses the formation of kidney stones, emphasizing that it typically takes two to three years for stones to develop. She explores various factors that can accelerate this process, including diet, hydration, and genetic predisposition. Jill highlights the importance of following the Kidney Stone Diet to prevent stones and improve overall health. She also discusses the significance of conducting a 24-hour urine collection to understand individual risks and tailor prevention strategies.

Takeaways

It takes an average of two to three years to form a kidney stone.Dehydration can lead to faster kidney...


The TRUTH about chanca piedra
#226
01/07/2025

In this conversation, Jill Harris, a kidney stone prevention nurse, discusses the popular natural remedy chanca piedra and its effectiveness in treating kidney stones. She emphasizes that while chanca piedra is often marketed as a 'stone breaker', it does not actually break up kidney stones. Instead, she advocates for dietary changes as the most effective way to prevent kidney stones. Jill shares insights on the importance of hydration, dietary choices, and lifestyle changes that can lead to significant health improvements for those prone to kidney stones.

Takeaways

Chanca piedra does not break up kidney stones.Dietary...


This will change how you see osteoporosis
#225
12/31/2024

In this episode, Jill Harris discusses the relationship between osteoporosis and kidney stones, emphasizing the importance of calcium intake and hydration. She addresses a listener's question about managing osteoporosis while preventing kidney stones, highlighting dietary choices and the role of urine calcium levels. The conversation also touches on the significance of strength training for maintaining bone health as one ages.

https://kidneystonediet.com/this-will-change-how-you-see-osteoporosis/

Takeaways

Osteoporosis can lead to kidney stones due to calcium loss.Dietary choices, such as lowering sugar and salt, are crucial.Natural calcium sources are preferred over supplements.Plant milks...


Oxalates aren't causing your kidney stones, this is.
#224
12/24/2024

In this conversation, Jill Harris discusses the misconceptions surrounding oxalates and kidney stones, emphasizing that diet plays a crucial role in kidney health. She explains that while oxalates are often blamed for kidney stones, they are just one part of a larger dietary picture. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining adequate calcium intake, managing sodium levels, and incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into the diet to promote overall health and prevent kidney stones.

Takeaways

Oxalates are not the primary cause of kidney stones.Overall diet is more important than just focusing on oxalates...


Is your salad dressing causing kidney stones?
#223
12/17/2024

In this conversation, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the impact of salad dressings on kidney stone formation, addressing a listener's question about dietary choices. They explore the importance of understanding oxalate levels in foods, the role of sodium and sugar in salad dressings, and the significance of meal plans in managing kidney stone health. The discussion emphasizes the need for balance in dietary choices and the value of support systems for individuals dealing with kidney stones.

Takeaways

Salad dressings can impact kidney stone formation.Homemade dressings are often healthier than store-bought.Pay attention to sodium...


Does soaking vegetables reduce oxalate?
#222
12/10/2024

In this conversation, Jeff Sarris and Jill Harris discuss the impact of oxalates in vegetables, particularly focusing on the common practice of boiling vegetables to reduce oxalate levels. Jill emphasizes the importance of retaining nutrients in vegetables and explains that while oxalates can be a concern for a small population, most people can safely consume them without drastic measures. The discussion also touches on dietary choices related to kidney stone prevention and the balance between health and enjoyment in eating.

Takeaways

Boiling vegetables can reduce oxalate but also nutrients.Most people do not need to worry...