We examined the relationship between vitamin C intake and the risk of developing kidney stones in a large cohort. This study included a significant number of participants: 156,735 women from the Nurses' Health Studies and 40,536 men from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study.
Our findings revealed that total and supplemental vitamin C intake was linked to a higher risk of kidney stones in men, but there was no such association evident in women. Specifically, among men, those who consumed higher amounts of vitamin C had greater likelihoods of developing stones when compared to those with lower intakes.
However, dietary vitamin C did not show a connection with kidney stones in either men or women. This suggests that while supplements may pose risks for men, dietary sources of vitamin C might not have the same impact. Overall, the study indicates that we should be cautious about high vitamin C supplement consumption, especially for men, while highlighting that dietary intake appears safe.
Read More
9.5
No connection between IVC and stones
No Reported Renal Stones with Intravenous Vitamin C Administration: A Prospective Case Series Study.
We set out to investigate whether high doses of intravenous vitamin C (IVC) could influence the formation of kidney stones. Our study involved 157 adult patients receiving IVC therapy at Integrated Health Options clinic over a 12-month period.
Throughout the study, we conducted regular check-ins with patients, specifically asking about any kidney stones they might have experienced, along with monitoring their renal function through blood tests. Despite some patients having a prior history of kidney stones, we found that none reported developing new stones during the study.
Interestingly, we also noted that the majority of participants showed stable renal function, as indicated by consistent serum creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR). In summary, our findings suggest that IVC therapy does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of kidney stones.
Read More
8
Ester-C shows promise for kidney stones
Vitamin C with metabolites reduce oxalate levels compared to ascorbic acid: a preliminary and novel clinical urologic finding.
We examined how different vitamin C formulations affect kidney stones, particularly focusing on Ester-C. This well-structured study utilized a randomized, double-blind, crossover design to assess the impact of Ester-C compared to regular ascorbic acid.
We found that Ester-C significantly lowered urine oxalate levels, a key risk factor for kidney stones. This discovery could be a promising step forward, but it also emphasizes the need for further clinical studies to fully understand its effects.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Safe for kidneys
3 people found this helpful
This vitamin C is superb; Ester-C is the most optimal form, easily digestible. It enhances immunity, acts as a strong antioxidant, and slows the ageing process. It regulates blood pressure, positively impacts joint and cardiovascular diseases, and helps combat stress. It doesn’t irritate the stomach or digestive tract and is safe for the kidneys. The anti-stress and soothing effects are commendable while toning all body systems. It notably aids immunity and speeds recovery from colds, serving as a primary preventative measure.
Read More
9
Quick cold remedy
4 people found this helpful
A fantastic solution! When I first noticed cold symptoms, this vitamin C worked wonders in just one day! The formulation does not irritate either my stomach or my kidneys.
Read More
7.5
Immunity booster
This product is effective! It boosts immunity and helps fight diseases. The ingredient list is commendable, and it's easy to swallow, though not suitable for children. My favourite form of vitamin C is easily absorbed and gentle on the stomach and kidneys.
We set out to investigate whether high doses of intravenous vitamin C (IVC) could influence the formation of kidney stones. Our study involved 157 adult patients receiving IVC therapy at Integrated Health Options clinic over a 12-month period.
Throughout the study, we conducted regular check-ins with patients, specifically asking about any kidney stones they might have experienced, along with monitoring their renal function through blood tests. Despite some patients having a prior history of kidney stones, we found that none reported developing new stones during the study.
Interestingly, we also noted that the majority of participants showed stable renal function, as indicated by consistent serum creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR). In summary, our findings suggest that IVC therapy does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of kidney stones.
Read More
8
Ester-C shows promise for kidney stones
Vitamin C with metabolites reduce oxalate levels compared to ascorbic acid: a preliminary and novel clinical urologic finding.
We examined how different vitamin C formulations affect kidney stones, particularly focusing on Ester-C. This well-structured study utilized a randomized, double-blind, crossover design to assess the impact of Ester-C compared to regular ascorbic acid.
We found that Ester-C significantly lowered urine oxalate levels, a key risk factor for kidney stones. This discovery could be a promising step forward, but it also emphasizes the need for further clinical studies to fully understand its effects.
Read More
8
CDAI may reduce kidney stones
High composite dietary antioxidant index is associated with reduced risk of kidney stones: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007-2020.
We examined the relationship between dietary antioxidant intake, particularly vitamin C, and the risk of developing kidney stones. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we found that individuals with higher levels of antioxidants, as indicated by the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI), had lower odds of forming kidney stones.
Stone formers, those who have experienced kidney stones, typically had a lower CDAI, showcasing significant differences based on gender. An interesting aspect of our findings was that vitamin C stood out as having the strongest negative correlation with kidney stones, suggesting that increased intake may be beneficial.
The results indicated that those in moderate and high CDAI groups had reduced odds of experiencing kidney stones compared to the lowest group. This was reflected in the odds ratios, which showed a significant decrease for those with higher antioxidant consumption. Therefore, it seems that a diet rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, could play a role in lowering kidney stone risks.
However, while our findings are promising, we emphasize the need for more in-depth cohort studies to further investigate this potential connection and confirm its causal nature.
Read More
8
Vitamin C may reduce kidney stones
Evaluating the American Urologic Association (AUA) dietary recommendations for kidney stone management using the National Health And Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES).
We explored the dietary habits of individuals from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) to see how certain foods might influence kidney stone formation.
Our focus was particularly on vitamin C and its potential role in preventing these painful stones. We looked at a diverse group of nearly 17,000 people, analyzing their dietary intake alongside their kidney health over a span of several years.
Interestingly, our findings highlighted a connection between higher vitamin C intake and reduced kidney stone risk. Specifically, we noted that individuals consuming 60 to 110 mg of vitamin C daily had a lower chance of forming stones, with an even greater protective effect observed in those exceeding that amount.
While we didn't find significant associations with many other dietary elements, our results suggest that increasing vitamin C intake might be beneficial. This points towards a need for further research on how vitamin C and other dietary factors interact in the context of kidney stone prevention.
Read More
7
Vitamin C's complex impact revealed
Multivitamins co-intake can reduce the prevalence of kidney stones: a large-scale cross-sectional study.
We sought to understand how varying levels of vitamin C, among other vitamins, affect the prevalence of kidney stones. Our research relied on comprehensive data from NHANES, which allowed us to evaluate the relationships between nine common vitamins and kidney stone conditions.
Through logistic regression and detailed cluster analysis, we discovered that high vitamin C intake can have a complex impact. While individuals with very high vitamin B6 and D levels showed a decrease in kidney stone issues, vitamin C presented a different picture. Initially, as vitamin C intake increased, the risk for kidney stones seemed to drop. However, after a certain threshold, that benefit waned, and we observed a potential increase in risk instead.
This means that while vitamin C can be beneficial in moderation, too much might not be the best for kidney health. Furthermore, we found that when combined with other vitamins, particularly in specific patterns, the protective effects against kidney stones enhanced, suggesting that overall dietary balance is crucial.
Our findings shed light on a nuanced relationship between vitamin C and kidney stones, emphasizing the importance of considering not just individual vitamins, but how they work together.
This vitamin C is superb; Ester-C is the most optimal form, easily digestible. It enhances immunity, acts as a strong antioxidant, and slows the ageing process. It regulates blood pressure, positively impacts joint and cardiovascular diseases, and helps combat stress. It doesn’t irritate the stomach or digestive tract and is safe for the kidneys. The anti-stress and soothing effects are commendable while toning all body systems. It notably aids immunity and speeds recovery from colds, serving as a primary preventative measure.
Read More
9
Quick cold remedy
4 people found this helpful
A fantastic solution! When I first noticed cold symptoms, this vitamin C worked wonders in just one day! The formulation does not irritate either my stomach or my kidneys.
Read More
7.5
Immunity booster
This product is effective! It boosts immunity and helps fight diseases. The ingredient list is commendable, and it's easy to swallow, though not suitable for children. My favourite form of vitamin C is easily absorbed and gentle on the stomach and kidneys.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. While they can vary in size from tiny particles to large stones, they all begin as crystallized substances that develop when urine contains more crystal-forming substances than the fluid in your urine can dilute. When the crystals stick together, they can form stones, which may cause severe pain, especially when they pass through the urinary tract. Common types of kidney stones include calcium stones, struvite stones, uric acid stones, and cystine stones.
The symptoms of kidney stones can include sharp pain in the side and back, pain during urination, pink or red urine, and frequent urination. Various factors can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, including dehydration, certain dietary choices, and genetic predisposition. Preventing kidney stones often involves drinking plenty of water, avoiding excessive salt and animal protein, and ensuring a balanced intake of calcium. For those who suffer from kidney stones, a medical evaluation may be necessary to determine the best management and preventive strategies.
Ester-C is a patented form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is known for its unique formulation, which includes calcium ascorbate. This makes Ester-C less acidic than standard vitamin C, making it gentler on the stomach for those who may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from regular vitamin C supplementation. One of the key features touted by manufacturers of Ester-C is that it is better absorbed by the body and stays in the immune system longer, although scientific research on these claims can be mixed.
In addition to its purported benefits, Ester-C is often marketed as a supplement that supports immune health, collagen production, and serves as an antioxidant, helping to combat free radicals and oxidative stress. It's available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. While some users report positive effects and tolerance of Ester-C, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen, especially if you have existing conditions or are taking other medications.
This supplement, particularly in the form of Ester-C, shows promising potential for reducing the risk of kidney stones, as supported by scientific research. In a study comparing Ester-C to traditional ascorbic acid, researchers found that Ester-C significantly lowered urine oxalate levels, a contributing factor to the formation of kidney stones [1]. Another investigation noted that individuals with higher antioxidant intake, including vitamin C, had decreased odds of developing kidney stones, suggesting that moderate consumption could be beneficial [2].
However, it's essential to approach this with caution. Research indicates that while high intake of vitamin C may initially lower kidney stone risk, excessive consumption could potentially increase that risk after reaching a certain threshold [3]. Specifically, men who took vitamin C supplements were found to have a higher incidence of kidney stones, indicating that the effect may differ between genders [5]. Overall, while preliminary findings suggest a positive link between certain vitamin C formulations and kidney stone risk reduction, further clinical studies are needed to confirm these effects and clarify the nuances involved, especially regarding dosage and gender differences.
Users have reported notable improvements in their symptoms after incorporating this vitamin C supplement into their routines. Many reviews highlight its effectiveness in enhancing immunity and aiding recovery from common illnesses such as colds. For example, one user indicated that the vitamin C worked wonders at alleviating cold symptoms in just one day, praising its fast-acting properties and the absence of digestive irritation Read Review. Another user echoed similar sentiments, noting its protective effects against disease and its gentle impact on both stomach and kidneys, which adds to the product's appeal Read Review.
Additionally, users have described broader health benefits associated with this vitamin C formulation, including its role as a strong antioxidant, which helps in slowing down the aging process and regulating blood pressure. It has also been reported to positively influence joint and cardiovascular health while providing commendable anti-stress effects Read Review. However, it's important to note that individual results may vary, and what works well for one person may not have the same effect on another.
9
Quick cold remedy
4 people found this helpful
A fantastic solution! When I first noticed cold symptoms, this vitamin C worked wonders in just one day! The formulation does not irritate either my stomach or my kidneys.
7.5
Immunity booster
This product is effective! It boosts immunity and helps fight diseases. The ingredient list is commendable, and it's easy to swallow, though not suitable for children. My favourite form of vitamin C is easily absorbed and gentle on the stomach and kidneys.
9
Safe for kidneys
3 people found this helpful
This vitamin C is superb; Ester-C is the most optimal form, easily digestible. It enhances immunity, acts as a strong antioxidant, and slows the ageing process. It regulates blood pressure, positively impacts joint and cardiovascular diseases, and helps combat stress. It doesn’t irritate the stomach or digestive tract and is safe for the kidneys. The anti-stress and soothing effects are commendable while toning all body systems. It notably aids immunity and speeds recovery from colds, serving as a primary preventative measure.
8
Ester-C shows promise for kidney stones
Vitamin C with metabolites reduce oxalate levels compared to ascorbic acid: a preliminary and novel clinical urologic finding.
We examined how different vitamin C formulations affect kidney stones, particularly focusing on Ester-C. This well-structured study utilized a randomized, double-blind, crossover design to assess the impact of Ester-C compared to regular ascorbic acid.
We found that Ester-C significantly lowered urine oxalate levels, a key risk factor for kidney stones. This discovery could be a promising step forward, but it also emphasizes the need for further clinical studies to fully understand its effects.
8
CDAI may reduce kidney stones
High composite dietary antioxidant index is associated with reduced risk of kidney stones: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007-2020.
We examined the relationship between dietary antioxidant intake, particularly vitamin C, and the risk of developing kidney stones. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we found that individuals with higher levels of antioxidants, as indicated by the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI), had lower odds of forming kidney stones.
Stone formers, those who have experienced kidney stones, typically had a lower CDAI, showcasing significant differences based on gender. An interesting aspect of our findings was that vitamin C stood out as having the strongest negative correlation with kidney stones, suggesting that increased intake may be beneficial.
The results indicated that those in moderate and high CDAI groups had reduced odds of experiencing kidney stones compared to the lowest group. This was reflected in the odds ratios, which showed a significant decrease for those with higher antioxidant consumption. Therefore, it seems that a diet rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, could play a role in lowering kidney stone risks.
However, while our findings are promising, we emphasize the need for more in-depth cohort studies to further investigate this potential connection and confirm its causal nature.
7
Vitamin C's complex impact revealed
Multivitamins co-intake can reduce the prevalence of kidney stones: a large-scale cross-sectional study.
We sought to understand how varying levels of vitamin C, among other vitamins, affect the prevalence of kidney stones. Our research relied on comprehensive data from NHANES, which allowed us to evaluate the relationships between nine common vitamins and kidney stone conditions.
Through logistic regression and detailed cluster analysis, we discovered that high vitamin C intake can have a complex impact. While individuals with very high vitamin B6 and D levels showed a decrease in kidney stone issues, vitamin C presented a different picture. Initially, as vitamin C intake increased, the risk for kidney stones seemed to drop. However, after a certain threshold, that benefit waned, and we observed a potential increase in risk instead.
This means that while vitamin C can be beneficial in moderation, too much might not be the best for kidney health. Furthermore, we found that when combined with other vitamins, particularly in specific patterns, the protective effects against kidney stones enhanced, suggesting that overall dietary balance is crucial.
Our findings shed light on a nuanced relationship between vitamin C and kidney stones, emphasizing the importance of considering not just individual vitamins, but how they work together.
4
Vitamin C linked to kidney stones
Ascorbic Acid Supplements and Kidney Stones Incidence Among Men and Women: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We explored the controversial relationship between vitamin C supplements, specifically ascorbic acid, and the risk of kidney stones. Our investigation included a systematic review of multiple studies up until March 2017 that looked at both men and women regarding their use of these supplements.
The findings revealed that men who took vitamin C supplements had a notably higher incidence of kidney stones compared to women. For instance, the analysis showed an increased risk in men with doses between 250 to 1499 mg per day, though higher doses (500 mg and above) did not significantly affect risk levels. Interestingly, women did not show any correlation between vitamin C intake and kidney stone formation at any dosage level examined.
Ultimately, our review suggests that while vitamin C may enhance kidney stone risk in men, it does not appear to affect women in the same way. Given these observations, more research is needed—specifically long-term studies and randomized controlled trials—to confirm these outcomes and enhance our understanding of vitamin C's role in kidney stone formation.
References
Moyad MA, Combs MA, Crowley DC, Baisley JE, Sharma P, et al. Vitamin C with metabolites reduce oxalate levels compared to ascorbic acid: a preliminary and novel clinical urologic finding. Urol Nurs. 2009;29:95.
Huang A, Huang W, Ye Y, Liu L, Wang H, et al. High composite dietary antioxidant index is associated with reduced risk of kidney stones: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007-2020. Nutr Res. 2024;128:60. 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.06.006
Zeng H, Liu Z, He Y, Chen H, He J, et al. Multivitamins co-intake can reduce the prevalence of kidney stones: a large-scale cross-sectional study. Int Urol Nephrol. 2024;56:2991. 10.1007/s11255-024-04021-9
Liu Kot K, Labagnara K, Kim JI, Loloi J, Gupta K, et al. Evaluating the American Urologic Association (AUA) dietary recommendations for kidney stone management using the National Health And Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES). Urolithiasis. 2023;51:60. 10.1007/s00240-023-01423-9
Jiang K, Tang K, Liu H, Xu H, Ye Z, et al. Ascorbic Acid Supplements and Kidney Stones Incidence Among Men and Women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol J. 2019;16:115. 10.22037/uj.v0i0.4275
Prier M, Carr AC, Baillie N. No Reported Renal Stones with Intravenous Vitamin C Administration: A Prospective Case Series Study. Antioxidants (Basel). 2018;7. 10.3390/antiox7050068
Ferraro PM, Curhan GC, Gambaro G, Taylor EN. Total, Dietary, and Supplemental Vitamin C Intake and Risk of Incident Kidney Stones. Am J Kidney Dis. 2016;67:400. 10.1053/j.ajkd.2015.09.005
Modi J, Modi P, Pal B, Bansal J, Kumar S, et al. Role of Vitamin C and E supplementation in reduction of serum level of renal injury marker following shock wave lithotripsy: Prospective single centre experience. Urol Ann. 2015;7:350. 10.4103/0974-7796.156143