We explored how cranberry juice, specifically vaccinium macrocarpon, influences the risk factors for developing calcium oxalate kidney stones. In a well-structured study, 20 South African men participated in a randomized cross-over trial. Some of them drank cranberry juice mixed with water for two weeks, while the others consumed only water. After a short break, the two groups switched their drinks to compare results.
Our findings revealed that cranberry juice significantly altered urinary risk factors associated with kidney stones. We observed a decrease in oxalate and phosphate excretion, alongside an increase in citrate excretion. This change resulted in lower relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate compared to just drinking water.
Overall, these results suggest that cranberry juice has potential antilithogenic properties, making it a viable conservative option for managing calcium oxalate kidney stones. Given its influence on urine chemistry, cranberry juice could be considered as part of a preventive strategy against kidney stones.
Read More
4
Vitamin C intake risks explored
Total, Dietary, and Supplemental Vitamin C Intake and Risk of Incident Kidney Stones.
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
Most Useful Reviews
9
Oxalate count confidence
26 people found this helpful
As a 58-year-old male who suffers from UTIs and kidney stones, I wish I had discovered this product earlier. I just started taking it and hope it prevents my future UTIs. The oxalate count is remarkably low, making it safe for kidney stone sufferers to enjoy the health benefits of cranberry.
Read More
9
Symptoms alleviated
3 people found this helpful
I don't use these for UTIs but to soothe my sensitive kidneys and bladder from taking supplements. I need the vitamins but am sensitive to them. After starting this, my symptoms resolved by the next day, allowing me to continue my supplements without excessive irritation. A great price without the added sugar of cranberry juice.
Read More
7.5
Kidney flushing aid
2 people found this helpful
I occasionally suffer from kidney stones and need to keep my kidneys flushed. This product helps with that. It's reasonably priced for what is considered a top brand. Ensure you drink plenty of water for optimal results.
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
9
Cranberry juice reduces stone risk
Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate kidney stone formation.
We explored how cranberry juice, specifically vaccinium macrocarpon, influences the risk factors for developing calcium oxalate kidney stones. In a well-structured study, 20 South African men participated in a randomized cross-over trial. Some of them drank cranberry juice mixed with water for two weeks, while the others consumed only water. After a short break, the two groups switched their drinks to compare results.
Our findings revealed that cranberry juice significantly altered urinary risk factors associated with kidney stones. We observed a decrease in oxalate and phosphate excretion, alongside an increase in citrate excretion. This change resulted in lower relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate compared to just drinking water.
Overall, these results suggest that cranberry juice has potential antilithogenic properties, making it a viable conservative option for managing calcium oxalate kidney stones. Given its influence on urine chemistry, cranberry juice could be considered as part of a preventive strategy against kidney stones.
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.
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8
Vitamin C formulation lowers oxalate
Vitamin C with metabolites reduce oxalate levels compared to ascorbic acid: a preliminary and novel clinical urologic finding.
We examined how different forms of vitamin C affect kidney stones, specifically looking at hyperoxaluria, a key risk factor for stone formation. In our study, conducted as a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial, we compared the effects of traditional ascorbic acid with a formulation containing vitamin C and metabolites, known as Ester-C.
Our findings revealed that Ester-C significantly lowered urine oxalate levels compared to regular ascorbic acid. This is exciting because higher oxalate levels in urine can lead to kidney stones, and finding a formulation that mitigates this risk is important.
Although this study presents promising results, it's essential to note that further evaluation is necessary to fully understand these findings. We believe this is a novel insight into the potential of vitamin C to help prevent kidney stones, and we look forward to additional research in this area.
As a 58-year-old male who suffers from UTIs and kidney stones, I wish I had discovered this product earlier. I just started taking it and hope it prevents my future UTIs. The oxalate count is remarkably low, making it safe for kidney stone sufferers to enjoy the health benefits of cranberry.
Read More
9
Symptoms alleviated
3 people found this helpful
I don't use these for UTIs but to soothe my sensitive kidneys and bladder from taking supplements. I need the vitamins but am sensitive to them. After starting this, my symptoms resolved by the next day, allowing me to continue my supplements without excessive irritation. A great price without the added sugar of cranberry juice.
Read More
7.5
Kidney flushing aid
2 people found this helpful
I occasionally suffer from kidney stones and need to keep my kidneys flushed. This product helps with that. It's reasonably priced for what is considered a top brand. Ensure you drink plenty of water for optimal results.
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.
Cranberries are small, round, red berries that belong to the family Ericaceae, specifically the genus Vaccinium. They are native to North America and are commonly found in acidic bogs in various regions of the United States and Canada. Known for their tart flavor, cranberries are often used in juices, sauces, and numerous culinary dishes. They are typically harvested during the fall, when they are at their peak ripeness, and are characterized by their bright color and firm texture.
Beyond their culinary uses, cranberries are also celebrated for their potential health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber, which may contribute to heart health and help in the prevention of certain infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs). Many people consider cranberry juice and extracts as natural remedies due to these properties. However, it's important to keep in mind that the sugar content in commercial cranberry beverages can be quite high, so opting for 100% pure cranberry juice or incorporating fresh cranberries into your diet can be a healthier choice. Overall, cranberries offer a delightful tartness while providing various nutritional benefits, making them a valued addition to both seasonal dishes and everyday meals.
While cranberries are often touted for their health benefits, their relationship with kidney stones is complex. Cranberries are high in oxalates, compounds that can contribute to the formation of certain types of stones, specifically calcium oxalate stones. For individuals prone to these stones, consuming large quantities of cranberry juice or cranberry supplements may actually increase the risk of stone formation. On the other hand, cranberries have also been studied for their potential ability to prevent urinary tract infections, which can be beneficial for kidney health overall. However, people with kidney stones should consult with their healthcare provider regarding the consumption of cranberry products as part of their dietary management.
In general, increasing fluid intake and consuming a balanced diet low in oxalates are considered more effective strategies for preventing kidney stones. If you are concerned about kidney stones, it's important to discuss your dietary choices with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health needs.
Vitamin C has garnered attention in relation to kidney stone risk, with several studies investigating its impact. Research indicates that higher antioxidant intake, particularly vitamin C, may correlate with a reduced likelihood of developing kidney stones. For example, a study found that individuals consuming moderate to high amounts of vitamin C reported lower odds of stone formation, suggesting that a diet rich in antioxidants could be beneficial [1]. However, the relationship isn't entirely straightforward; another study noted that while higher vitamin C intake reduced risks initially, excessive consumption after a certain threshold might lead to an increased risk of stones [2]. This nuanced view underscores the importance of moderation alongside the potential benefits.
Further research highlights that while dietary vitamin C may not pose significant risks, supplementation could raise concerns. In men, higher intake of vitamin C from supplements was associated with an increased incidence of kidney stones, whereas women did not show a similar effect [6]. Additionally, a study involving intravenous vitamin C found no new kidney stone formation among participants undergoing treatment [5]. Overall, the evidence suggests that while vitamin C—and particularly its dietary form—could be protective against kidney stones, one should approach supplementation with caution, especially for men.
When it comes to utilizing cranberry for treating kidney stones, current research suggests that cranberry juice may play a role in altering urinary risk factors associated with stone formation. One study focused on 20 South African men and found that consuming cranberry juice significantly decreased the excretion of oxalate and phosphate while increasing citrate levels, which are beneficial changes that could help prevent calcium oxalate kidney stones [9]. This indicates that incorporating cranberry juice could potentially serve as a conservative strategy to mitigate the risk of kidney stones.
While the precise optimal dose for cranberry juice is not explicitly defined in the literature, the findings suggest that regular consumption, particularly in moderation, may offer preventive benefits. Another study highlighted that cranberry juice had mixed effects on urinary pH and increased oxalic acid excretion, pointing to the complexities of its impacts [10]. Thus, integrating cranberry juice into a balanced diet aimed at kidney stone prevention could be prudent, though individuals should be cautious of excessive intake, considering the specific types of kidney stones they may be prone to.
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 intake risks explored
Total, Dietary, and Supplemental Vitamin C Intake and Risk of Incident Kidney Stones.
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.
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.
9
Cranberry juice reduces stone risk
Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate kidney stone formation.
We explored how cranberry juice, specifically vaccinium macrocarpon, influences the risk factors for developing calcium oxalate kidney stones. In a well-structured study, 20 South African men participated in a randomized cross-over trial. Some of them drank cranberry juice mixed with water for two weeks, while the others consumed only water. After a short break, the two groups switched their drinks to compare results.
Our findings revealed that cranberry juice significantly altered urinary risk factors associated with kidney stones. We observed a decrease in oxalate and phosphate excretion, alongside an increase in citrate excretion. This change resulted in lower relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate compared to just drinking water.
Overall, these results suggest that cranberry juice has potential antilithogenic properties, making it a viable conservative option for managing calcium oxalate kidney stones. Given its influence on urine chemistry, cranberry juice could be considered as part of a preventive strategy against kidney stones.
4
Cranberry juice shows mixed effects
Effect of blackcurrant-, cranberry- and plum juice consumption on risk factors associated with kidney stone formation.
We aimed to understand how different juices, including vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry juice), affect the formation of kidney stones. The study involved 12 healthy male participants aged 18-38, who followed a standardized diet. During the research, they provided 24-hour urine samples during both control and loading phases where mineral water was replaced with specific juices.
Our findings revealed that cranberry juice lowered urinary pH, which could be significant in supporting treatments related to some types of kidney stones, particularly brushite and struvite stones. However, we also observed that cranberry juice increased the excretion of oxalic acid and raised the relative supersaturation of uric acid, which might suggest mixed effects.
Interestingly, while blackcurrant juice increased urinary pH and citric acid excretion, plum juice did not have any notable impact on urine composition. It seems that while cranberry juice plays a role in acidic conditions potentially beneficial for certain stones, its overall influence requires careful consideration due to its side effects.
In conclusion, while vaccinium macrocarpon juice offers potential benefits, it’s important to note that it also may have some drawbacks depending on specific kidney stone types.
References
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
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.
McHarg T, Rodgers A, Charlton K. Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate kidney stone formation. BJU Int. 2003;92:765.
Kessler T, Jansen B, Hesse A. Effect of blackcurrant-, cranberry- and plum juice consumption on risk factors associated with kidney stone formation. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002;56:1020.