Published
June 9, 2026
•
Reviewed by
Ryan L. Steinberg, MD
The below recommendations are not applicable to all patients and all stone types. Please consult with your provider to determine if these suggested dietary adjustments are applicable to you and your stone.
What is citrate and how does it help?
Citrate is a natural compound found in many fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits like lemons and oranges.
It helps prevent kidney stones by:
- Stopping crystals from forming and growing
- Making urine (pee) less acidic (raising pH)
Tips to raise your citrate levels
Eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Aim for 5 or more servings each day.
- Add fruits or vegetables to every meal or snack.
Fruit sources of citrate
- High citrate: Lemon juice, lime juice
- Moderate citrate: Pineapples, oranges, grapefruit
- Low citrate: Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon)
Alkalizing vegetables
These vegetables have an acid-reducing (alkalizing) effect on the body, which may help raise urinary citrate.
- High alkalizing effect: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, parsley
- Moderate alkalizing effect: Broccoli, green beans, zucchini, cucumbers, carrots, cauliflower
- Low alkalizing effect: Lettuce, celery, tomatoes
Choose drinks high in citrate
- Add 2 to 4 ounces of lemon or lime juice to water each day.
- Choose Crystal Light or Wyler's lemonade or raspberry lemonade. These have high amounts of citrate.
- Choose 100% orange juice (low calorie or no added sugar) but limit it to 4 to 8 ounces per day.