lifestyle · for kidney stone prevention
Low-Sodium Diet
Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026
How to use
Target under 2,300 mg of sodium per day (about 1 teaspoon of salt total from all sources). Read nutrition labels - processed foods, canned soups, deli meats, and restaurant meals are the largest sources. Cook at home using herbs, lemon, and spices instead of salt. Pair sodium reduction with adequate dietary calcium (1,000-1,200 mg/day from food) to prevent compensatory oxalate absorption from the gut.
How it works
High sodium intake forces the kidneys to excrete more sodium in urine; calcium follows sodium in the proximal tubule, raising urinary calcium concentration and directly increasing the risk of calcium salt crystallization.
Where to buy
No supplement needed - this is a dietary change. Low-sodium food products are widely available at all supermarkets.
Typical cost: $0/month
Safety notes
Do not combine a low-sodium diet with a low-calcium diet - restricting both increases oxalate absorption and can worsen stone risk. Athletes and individuals working in hot climates who lose significant sodium through sweat should not restrict sodium without medical supervision. Some blood pressure medications (e.g. loop diuretics) interact with sodium balance - speak with a doctor before making significant dietary changes if you take medication.
Drug & supplement interactions
- Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
- Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
- Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
- Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.
Clinical source
NEJM 2002This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.