Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 8 Researches
6.9
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 3 Reviews
7.7
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Vegetarian Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin C (as Ester-C® Calcium Ascorbate)
1,000 mg (1 g)
1,111%
Calcium (as Ester-C® Calcium Ascorbate)
108 mg
8%
Citrus Bioflavonoids ComplexCitrus Bioflavonoids (Citrus spp.) (fruit), Sweet Orange, Tangerine, Lime, Lemon, Acerola, Rutin, Hesperidin Complex (Citrus spp.) (fruit), Naturally Occurring Vitamin C Metabolites
200 mg
**

Top Medical Research Studies

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
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
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

7
Good for stones
1 people found this helpful
If you see it available, buy it! This excellent, non-acidic form of vitamin C with bioflavonoids does not irritate the stomach and is well absorbed. It's suitable for those with kidney stones or related issues. I've taken it several times and will continue to do so.
Read More
6
Kidney stones caution
1 people found this helpful
It seems that these vitamins no longer require reviews; they are among the best forms of vitamin C with bioflavonoids. The ascorbate form is easy on the gastrointestinal tract and aids absorption. Individuals with kidney stones should be cautious, as long-term use may not be advisable. However, during periods of illness or stress, vitamin C is invaluable, and this is one of its finest forms.
Read More
2
Kidney stones risk
This is the gentlest form of vitamin C for the stomach; however, I can't take it long-term due to the high risk of kidney stones.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 8 Researches
6.9
  • All Researches
9.5
No connection between IVC and stones
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
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
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
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
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.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 3 Reviews
7.7
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
7
Good for stones
1 people found this helpful
If you see it available, buy it! This excellent, non-acidic form of vitamin C with bioflavonoids does not irritate the stomach and is well absorbed. It's suitable for those with kidney stones or related issues. I've taken it several times and will continue to do so.
Read More
6
Kidney stones caution
1 people found this helpful
It seems that these vitamins no longer require reviews; they are among the best forms of vitamin C with bioflavonoids. The ascorbate form is easy on the gastrointestinal tract and aids absorption. Individuals with kidney stones should be cautious, as long-term use may not be advisable. However, during periods of illness or stress, vitamin C is invaluable, and this is one of its finest forms.
Read More
2
Kidney stones risk
This is the gentlest form of vitamin C for the stomach; however, I can't take it long-term due to the high risk of kidney stones.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

7
Good for stones
1 people found this helpful
If you see it available, buy it! This excellent, non-acidic form of vitamin C with bioflavonoids does not irritate the stomach and is well absorbed. It's suitable for those with kidney stones or related issues. I've taken it several times and will continue to do so.
6
Kidney stones caution
1 people found this helpful
It seems that these vitamins no longer require reviews; they are among the best forms of vitamin C with bioflavonoids. The ascorbate form is easy on the gastrointestinal tract and aids absorption. Individuals with kidney stones should be cautious, as long-term use may not be advisable. However, during periods of illness or stress, vitamin C is invaluable, and this is one of its finest forms.
2
Kidney stones risk
This is the gentlest form of vitamin C for the stomach; however, I can't take it long-term due to the high risk of kidney stones.
8
Ester-C shows promise for kidney stones
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
Vitamin C may reduce kidney stones
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.
4
Vitamin C linked to kidney stones
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.
8
CDAI may reduce kidney stones
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.

References

  1. 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.
  2. 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. doi:10.1016/j.nutres.2024.06.006
  3. 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. doi:10.1007/s11255-024-04021-9
  4. 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. doi:10.1007/s00240-023-01423-9
  5. 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. doi:10.22037/uj.v0i0.4275
  6. Prier M, Carr AC, Baillie N. No Reported Renal Stones with Intravenous Vitamin C Administration: A Prospective Case Series Study. Antioxidants (Basel). 2018;7. doi:10.3390/antiox7050068
  7. 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. doi:10.1053/j.ajkd.2015.09.005
  8. 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. doi:10.4103/0974-7796.156143
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