Can people with diabetes and kidney stones eat walnuts?

Patients with diabetes and kidney stones can consume walnuts in moderation.

Patients with diabetes and kidney stones need to be cautious with their dietary choices to avoid worsening their conditions. Walnuts are nutrient-rich nuts containing healthy unsaturated fatty acids, protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, which are beneficial for the general population. Walnuts do not contain sugar, thus they will not cause an increase in blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. For diabetic patients, it is recommended to consume walnuts 2–3 times per week, about half a walnut each time, provided that blood glucose levels are well-controlled, in order to avoid excessive intake of fat and calories. Walnuts contain relatively high levels of oxalate and phosphorus, both of which may promote the formation of certain types of kidney stones, especially calcium oxalate stones. Therefore, patients with a history of calcium oxalate stones should limit their intake of high-oxalate foods such as walnuts. However, for patients with uric acid stones or calcium phosphate stones, the impact of walnuts is smaller, although dietary choices should still be adjusted according to individual circumstances.

In conclusion, both diabetic and kidney stone patients can consume walnuts in moderation but should pay attention to controlling the intake to avoid adverse effects from excessive consumption. Additionally, patients should also avoid or limit high-sugar, high-salt, high-protein, and oxalate-rich foods in their daily diet to maintain good health.