Nutrition plays an integral role in the treatment of individuals with kidney stones. Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are often viewed with suspicion due to the widespread belief that their high calcium content contributes to stone formation. However, scientific evidence shows that when consumed correctly, these products may actually reduce rather than increase the risk of stones. So, can people with kidney stones consume milk, yogurt, and cheese? Let’s explore the answer together.
This article is prepared based on the clinical experience and review of scientific literature by Urology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdulkadir Tepeler.
Nutrition Should Be Tailored to the Type of Stone
There are many different types of kidney stones. The most common is the calcium oxalate stone, which accounts for approximately 70% of cases. Other types include uric acid, struvite, and cystine stones, each with different formation mechanisms. Therefore, dietary recommendations should be tailored to the type of stone.
In the case of calcium oxalate stones, having an adequate amount of calcium in the diet is actually beneficial. This is because dietary calcium binds to oxalate in the gut, preventing its absorption and reducing its excretion in the urine, which in turn lowers the risk of stone formation.
Moreover, scientific publications indicate that instead of reducing calcium intake, consuming a daily diet that includes at least 1 gram of calcium, combined with low salt and low protein, helps reduce the risk of stone formation. On the other hand, insufficient dietary calcium can lead to increased oxalate absorption and urinary excretion. Therefore, natural calcium from dairy products may have a protective effect. The key point is that calcium should come from natural food sources; excessive calcium supplementation may have adverse effects.
Dairy Products and Calcium: Risky or Beneficial?
For years, patients with kidney stones were advised to avoid dairy products. However, this recommendation was based on outdated or incomplete information. Research has shown that calcium obtained from food (such as milk, yogurt, cheese) does not increase the risk of stones—on the contrary, it reduces it. On the other hand, calcium supplements taken in excessive doses are known to increase the risk.
In summary: Calcium from food is beneficial; excess calcium from supplements can be harmful.
Daily Calcium Requirement and Amounts in Foods
The recommended daily calcium intake for a healthy adult is approximately 1000 mg. For postmenopausal women, older adults, or individuals at risk of stones, this amount may increase to 1200–1300 mg.
So, how much calcium do we get from food?
| Food | Portion Size | Calcium (mg) |
| Milk | 1 glass (200 ml) | ~240 mg |
| Yogurt | 1 bowl (200 g) | ~300 mg |
| White Cheese | 1 portion (50 g) | ~300 mg |
| Kashar Cheese | 1 slice (30 g) | ~250 mg |
As you can see, a daily intake of 1 bowl of yogurt, 1 glass of milk, and 1 slice of cheese can cover a significant portion of the daily calcium requirement. However, overconsumption—especially through supplements—can increase the risk.
When Should One Be Cautious?
Dairy products are not inherently harmful, but overconsumption should be avoided. Caution is advised in the following situations:
- Excessive animal protein intake (can increase urinary acidity)
- High doses of vitamin D (can enhance calcium absorption excessively)
- Use of calcium supplements
- Patients receiving advanced osteoporosis treatment
In such cases, calcium intake should be planned under medical supervision.
How Should Calcium Be Consumed?
- Calcium-rich foods should be consumed with meals.
- Water intake should be increased to avoid urine concentration.
- Avoid consuming calcium-rich foods alongside high-oxalate foods (such as spinach, beets, chocolate).
Conclusion: Not Forbidden, But Balanced
Milk, yogurt, and cheese are not strictly forbidden for people with kidney stones. In fact, when consumed in the right amounts and manner, they may help reduce the risk of stone formation. However, each patient is different; therefore, dietary planning should be individualized based on stone type and the person’s overall health condition.
If you frequently form stones, don’t rely on hearsay. Consult an experienced urologist who provides evidence-based guidance—such as Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdulkadir Tepeler.