Which nutrient deficiency causes kidney stones?

Scientists do not believe that a nutrient deficiency or any type of food causes kidney stones, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. After a person develops kidney stones, changes to the diet may be required. The best way to prevent kidney stones is to drink enough fluids every day.

Some people are at a higher risk than others for kidney stone development, notes the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Causes for kidney stones include a family history of kidney stones, too much calcium in the urine and cystic kidney disease. Other causes for kidney stone development include hyperparathyroidism, renal tubular acidosis, chronic bowel inflammation and gout. People with hyperoxaluria, hyperuricosuria and cystinuria are also at high risk for kidney stones.