Kidney Stone Diet

SPYR
  • 4.8 (65)
  • Nutrition
  • Updated Weekly

Prevent kidney stones 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!

  1. 1d ago

    Is Cheese Good or Bad for Kidney Stones?

    One slice of Swiss cheese has 180 milligrams of calcium and under 70 milligrams of sodium. Most cheeses do not look like that. People often tell us they eat cheese to get their daily calcium. The problem is that most cheese is packed with salt. Too much salt makes your kidneys dump calcium straight into your urine. That extra calcium can easily turn into kidney stones. We break down how different cheeses affect your kidneys and your bones. We look at salty favorites like cheddar, brie, and cottage cheese. You will learn which cheeses have much less sodium, like Swiss and Havarti. We also share easy ways to mix them into your favorite meals, like your morning eggs. You do not have to give up cheese completely. Our rule is portion, not perfection. You will learn how to check nutrition labels and protect your daily salt budget. That way, you can enjoy your food and still keep kidney stones away. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Dietary Calcium and Cheese Misconceptions (01:50) - Comparing Sodium in Swiss and Cheddar (04:30) - Finding Lower Sodium Cheese Alternatives (06:14) - How High Sodium Increases Kidney Stones ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  2. Sep 29

    Is Sparkling Water Bad for Kidney Stones?

    Your bottle of bubbly water might hide a surprising amount of salt and sugar. Carbonation itself does not cause kidney stones. The carbon dioxide in sparkling water is completely safe. The real trouble comes from what companies add to the bottle. Tonic water often carries a heavy dose of sugar. Many mineral waters sneak in extra sodium and calcium. That can easily throw off your daily targets. We break down how to read water labels so you stay protected. Too much sodium raises the calcium in your urine, which can form stones. Extra sugar does the same thing. We talk through your daily limits for salt, added sugar, and calcium. You will see how flavored drinks fit into your day without undoing your hard work. We also look at artificial sweeteners. We share why simple tap water is often your best bet. If you love fizzy drinks, you do not have to give them up completely. You just need to check the label and count those extra minerals. You will know exactly which bubbly drinks are safe to sip. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Sparkling Water and Kidney Stone Prevention (02:18) - Sodium and Calcium in Mineral Water (05:07) - Added Sugar in Flavored Waters (06:29) - Artificial Sweeteners and Nutrition Labels ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  3. Sep 22

    Arugula: Spinach Replacement or Another Oxalate Trap?

    A cup of spinach packs 700 milligrams of oxalate. Half a cup of arugula has only 0.3 milligrams. If you formed a kidney stone, you might feel terrified of all greens. You do not have to pick through your salad with fear. We show you why arugula is a safe swap that brings plenty of peppery flavor. We also clear up bad rumors about kale. Many people wrongly believe kale causes stones, but it is actually very low in oxalate. We share simple kitchen tips to make kale softer and easier to eat. Massaging the leaves or buying baby kale can give you the exact texture you miss from spinach. You will walk away knowing which greens are safe to eat every day. You can stop guessing, protect your kidneys, and enjoy real food again. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Evaluating Salad Greens for Kidney Stone Prevention (00:34) - Oxalate Content in Arugula Kale and Spinach (06:51) - Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plan Resources (07:19) - Weekly Encouragement for Kidney Stone Prevention ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  4. Sep 15

    Pumpkin Seeds, Pistachios, and the Snack Aisle

    A quarter cup of pumpkin seeds has only four milligrams of oxalate. Yet many people get told to never eat nuts or seeds again after a kidney stone. Fear can quickly make your world feel too small. You might cut out whole food groups that you can safely enjoy. We break down which snacks are actually safe and which ones you should skip. We take away almonds, cashews, and chia seeds. Their oxalate levels run way too high. Oxalate is a natural plant compound that can form kidney stones. Almonds eat up almost your entire daily budget in just two tablespoons. That does not mean you have to skip every crunchy snack, though. Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pistachios, and walnuts can easily fit into your day. We share the exact portion sizes and numbers for each one. You will learn how to bring good food back to your plate while protecting your kidneys. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Nuts, Seeds, and Kidney Stone Fears (02:15) - Oxalate Risks in Almonds and Cashews (03:30) - Safe Low-Oxalate Seeds and Portion Control (05:15) - Chia Seed Oxalate Concerns and Recommendations ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  5. Sep 8

    Coffee, Tea, and Kidney Stones: The Caffeine Episode

    You do not have to give up your morning coffee or tea to stop kidney stones. Many people hear that caffeine causes stones, but that is a myth. Having a couple of cups a day can actually lower your risk by adding to your daily fluids. We explain what really happens with tea, coffee, and oxalate. Tea does have oxalate, especially if you let the bag steep for hours. Still, having one or two normal cups will not spike your levels. We also share how calcium binds to oxalate in your gut so your body gets rid of it safely. Caffeine acts like a diuretic, so the real problem is getting dehydrated if you forget to drink water. You will walk away knowing how to balance your favorite drinks with water so you stay healthy. You can enjoy your mug each morning without the fear or guilt. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Debunking Coffee and Tea Kidney Stone Myths (02:55) - Pairing Dietary Calcium with High Oxalate Tea (05:20) - Caffeine Diuretic Effects and Hydration Management (07:40) - Daily Fluid Intake and Kidney Stone Prevention ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  6. Sep 1

    Protein Powders in 2026: What I Tell Patients Now

    Mixing almond milk and chocolate protein powder into your daily smoothie can spike your kidney stone risk. The internet says you need huge amounts of protein every day. You do need protein to keep your muscles strong as you age. But you have to get it safely. We break down what protein powders do to your kidneys and what to buy instead. We look at what is hiding on nutrition labels. You will learn why collagen and spinach powders can raise oxalate levels in your body. We share simple swaps, like choosing vanilla over chocolate and using pea or coconut milk instead of nut milks. We also explain why drinks with very high calcium should be split into two servings so your body can absorb them. Skipping meals for a protein shake is not a lasting way to lose weight. It often causes binges and raises your stone risk later. We share safe choices like whey isolate, egg white powder, and pumpkin seed powder. You can hit your daily protein goals, protect your kidneys, and stay strong. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Protein Needs and Safety for Older Adults (03:30) - Avoiding High Oxalate Ingredients in Shakes (05:45) - Managing Calcium and Collagen in Protein Drinks (07:45) - Meal Replacement Shakes and Weight Loss Risks (11:30) - Safe Protein Powders for Kidney Stone Prevention ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  7. Aug 25

    Sugar, Honey, Maple Syrup: Which Sweeteners Are Stone-Safe?

    Honey and maple syrup count as added sugar, just like white table sugar. Eating too much sweetener increases calcium in your urine and lowers your urine volume. Both of those changes make kidney stones much more likely to form. Up to sixty percent of stone formers have high urine calcium, and extra sugar makes that problem worse. We break down how different sweeteners affect your body, including their glycemic index numbers. Maple syrup scores fifty-four, honey scores fifty-eight to sixty, and table sugar scores sixty-five. You will learn the daily sugar limits to aim for: twenty-five grams for women and thirty-eight grams for men. We also share why you do not have to give up treats forever. You will walk away with simple ways to cut back on sugar without feeling miserable. Changing your diet takes time and patience, but your cravings will fade as you take baby steps. You do not need perfection to protect your kidneys. Just focus on your portions and keep drinking plenty of water. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Natural Sweeteners and Urine Calcium Risks (02:46) - Daily Added Sugar Limits and Glycemic Index (05:22) - Managing Sugar Cravings and Lifestyle Changes (07:47) - Sustainable Habit Building and Sugar Alternatives ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

  8. Aug 18

    Prevent kidney stones with water

    You need to make at least two and a half liters of urine every day to stop kidney stones. It is not just about how much water you drink. It is about how much leaves your body. When you pee enough, you flush out tiny mineral crystals. That keeps them from sticking together into painful stones. Two people can drink the exact same amount and pee very different amounts. Salt and added sugar make your body hold onto water. Sweating, bowel issues, and watery fruits also change your numbers. We explain why your body reacts this way. We also share why other fluids like milk, juice, and smoothies count toward your daily goals. We show you simple ways to track your output at home without daily lab tests. A quick look at your urine color tells you a lot. You can also save a collection jug to check your volume every few months. You will leave with clear steps to keep your kidneys clean and healthy. Get Featured!Leave us a voice message at call.show/kidneystonediet to be featured on the show! Chapters (00:00) - Urine Output Versus Daily Water Intake (01:21) - Digestive Issues and Fluid Loss Factors (03:47) - Target Urine Volume and Crystal Supersaturation (05:43) - Tracking Daily Hydration and Urine Volume ——When you're ready, here's how I can helpSince 1998, I've helped thousands of patients prevent kidney stones. With my Kidney Stone Diet All-Access Pass, you get access to every prevention tool I've ever created: Weekly Kidney Stone Diet Meal Plans​4 meals per day, 7 days per weekWeekly Kidney Stone Prevention Group Consultations3 video calls per week with me and the Kidney Stone Diet communityAll of my Kidney Stone Diet EbooksLow Oxalate Protein Bars, Kidney Stone Safe Smoothies, Kidney Stone Safe Snacks & Desserts, and the Low Oxalate CookbookPlus, 20% Off Private ConsultationsAnd, as a BONUS, you'll get my flagship Kidney Stone Prevention Course (normally $249) absolutely free! LEARN MORE! —— WHO IS JILL HARRIS? _Since 1998, Jill Harris has been the #1 kidney stone prevention nurse helping patients prevent kidney stones. Drawing from her work with world-renowned University of Chicago nephrologist, Dr. Fred Coe, and the thousands of patients she's worked with directly, she created the Kidney Stone Diet®. With a simple, self-guided online video course, meal plans, cookbooks, group consultations, and private consultations, Kidney Stone Diet® is Jill's effort to help as many patients as possible prevent kidney stones for good.

See All (314)

4.8
out of 5
65 Ratings

About

Prevent kidney stones 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!

Information

  • Creator
    SPYR
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    314
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©2020-2026 SPYR
  • Show Website
    Kidney Stone Diet

You Might Also Like