A client with oxalate kidney stones should avoid which foods?

• A. Spinach and rhubarb
• B. Bananas
• C. Milk
• D. Rice

Answer: (A)

Oxalate content in foods affects the formation of calcium oxalate stones. To lower stone risk, people with oxalate stones should limit foods that are very high in oxalate. Spinach and rhubarb rank high in oxalates, so avoiding them reduces the amount of oxalate that can combine with calcium and form stones in the urinary tract. Bananas are low in oxalate, and milk provides calcium that can bind oxalate in the gut, helping reduce oxalate absorption, so these are not typically avoided. Rice is also relatively low in oxalate, so it doesn’t significantly contribute to stone risk. Along with this dietary approach, staying well hydrated and maintaining adequate calcium intake with meals can further help prevent stone recurrence.