Oxalate is found naturally in a variety of foods and beverages and, when combined with fatty protein creates calcium oxalate (stones). When a person does not consume enough water (not to be confused with coffee, tea, soda or anything but water) and consumes almost entirely high oxalate foods and beverages, that person is likely to develop kidney stones.

In general, when not combined with protein (meats, nuts, seeds and dairy), plant-based oxalates will not create stones.

All fruit and fruit juices should be consumed alone (at least 2 hours before or after protein consumption).

Consume sufficient water; as a general rule, each person should consume ½ ounce of water for every pound of body weight they carry.

Foods to avoid or limit:

Berries, grapes, pears, peaches, citrus, rhubarb, beans, beets and beet greens, celery, chives, scallions, cucumbers, eggplant, escarole, green peppers, Swiss chard, kale, leeks, okra, parsley, rutabagas, spinach, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, soy of any type, wheat, corn, peas, baked beans, chili beans, peanuts, walnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans and chocolate.

Beverages to avoid or limit:

Chocolate milk, hot cocoa, chocolate drink mixes, tea, all berry juices, all citrus juices, grape juice, tomato juice and sodas.