About the Health Information

• Almonds are rich in protein, healthy fats, fibre, and vitamin E.
• They are also naturally high in oxalates.
• High oxalate intake may increase the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones in some people.
• Most healthy people can enjoy almonds in moderation.
• Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

Almonds are one of the healthiest nuts, but many people wonder whether they can cause kidney stones.

If you’ve had kidney stones before, you may have heard that almonds are high in oxalates. Does that mean you should stop eating them?

The answer depends on your overall health and the type of kidney stone you have.

No. Almonds do not directly cause kidney stones in everyone.

However, almonds are high in oxalates. In people who are prone to calcium oxalate kidney stones, eating large amounts of high-oxalate foods may increase the risk of stone formation.

For most healthy individuals, eating almonds in moderation is unlikely to cause kidney stones.

Yes. Almonds naturally contain oxalates.

Oxalates are compounds found in many plant-based foods. They can combine with calcium in the urine to form calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stone.

Other foods that also contain oxalates include spinach, beetroot, chocolate, and tea.

Not usually.

For most people, almonds are a healthy snack that provides:

• Healthy fats
• Plant-based protein
• Fibre
• Vitamin E
• Magnesium

However, if you have recurrent kidney stones or chronic kidney disease, your doctor may recommend limiting high-oxalate foods based on your individual condition.

Yes, but moderation is important.

If you have had calcium oxalate kidney stones, you may not need to avoid almonds completely. Instead:

• Eat smaller portions.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Follow a balanced diet.
• Follow your doctor’s dietary advice.

The right diet depends on the type of kidney stone you have.

Almond milk may also contain oxalates, although the amount varies by brand.

Drinking almond milk occasionally is generally safe for most people. If you have recurrent kidney stones, speak with your doctor or dietitian about the best milk options for your diet.

Simple lifestyle habits can help lower your risk:

• Drink enough water every day.
• Limit excessive intake of high-oxalate foods.
• Eat enough calcium through your diet.
• Reduce excess salt.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Stay physically active.

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Severe pain in your back or side
• Blood in your urine
• Pain while passing urine
• Fever with urinary symptoms
• Recurrent kidney stones

Early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Almonds do not directly cause kidney stones, but they are naturally high in oxalates. For most healthy people, enjoying almonds in moderation is perfectly safe.

If you have a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones or chronic kidney disease, speak with your healthcare provider about the right dietary choices for your condition.