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Our results showed that both treatment approaches led to a significant increase in 24-hour urine calcium. However, we observed no notable difference between the two therapies regarding this measure. Importantly, while there was an increase in 24-hour urine calcium, neither treatment affected the supersaturation levels of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate, which are critical in the formation of kidney stones.
We also noted a significant rise in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, with the weekly regimen showing a greater increase. Alongside these changes, parathyroid hormone levels decreased in both groups. Ultimately, while vitamin D supplementation did elevate urine calcium levels, it did not enhance supersaturation factors that contribute to kidney stone formation, indicating that the benefits of vitamin D in this context may be limited.
Both treatment approaches resulted in a significant increase in 24-hour urine calcium levels; however, there was no difference between the two methods. Importantly, neither regimen increased the supersaturation of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate, which are substances that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
We also observed a notable increase in serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, particularly in the weekly high-dose group, and a decline in serum parathyroid hormone in both groups. Despite these changes, it's crucial to highlight that our findings indicate no significant advantages in preventing kidney stones from vitamin D3 treatment alone.
In the study, thirty-three participants, averaging 56 years and deficient in vitamin D, were evaluated before and after receiving cholecalciferol supplements. Initially, we examined both their calcium excretion and urine supersaturation levels, which help indicate the risk of stone formation.
Following the supplementation, we observed several significant changes. Notably, the serum levels of vitamin D increased, and more participants became hypercalciuric, meaning they were excreting higher levels of calcium in their urine. This was concerning as increased urine supersaturation with calcium could elevate the risk of kidney stones.
Despite the rise in vitamin D levels, we didn’t see any major changes in overall calcium levels in the blood, suggesting that the body was managing these variations. However, for those undergoing this treatment, there remains a cautionary note about the potential for increased stone formation due to higher calcium excretion.
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From our investigation, we observed that higher levels of vitamin D intake were linked to a lower likelihood of experiencing kidney stones. Specifically, those with high vitamin D intake showed a significant protective effect compared to those with lower intake levels. This suggests that vitamin D may play a beneficial role in kidney health.
However, our study also revealed some nuances. While vitamin D seemed to provide protection, the relationship with vitamin C intake was more complicated. As vitamin C intake rose, its effects shifted—initially protective but later potentially harmful if consumed in excess.
Additionally, our findings indicated that when vitamin D is taken alongside other vitamins, the protective effects against kidney stones could be enhanced. Overall, co-exposure to multiple vitamins was seen as beneficial, making vitamin combinations an interesting area for further research.
By analyzing data from two different groups of kidney stone patients, we assessed how the vitamin D metabolite diagnostic ratio (VMDR) relates to clinical traits associated with idiopathic hypercalciuria, which means the cause is unknown.
Our findings revealed that higher VMDR levels correlated with increased plasma calcium and urinary calcium excretion. Impressively, a higher VMDR was linked to an elevated risk of developing calcium oxalate stones and lower bone mineral density.
While the study suggests connections between CYP24A1 activity and certain traits of kidney stone formers, it did not specifically isolate the effects of vitamin D treatment on these outcomes. Thus, further research would be necessary to fully understand the role that vitamin D may play in preventing kidney stones.
Our analysis covered over 444,000 people, and we tracked the incidence of kidney stones over an average of 12.6 years. Interestingly, while higher 25(OH)D levels didn’t show a clear connection to kidney stones across the general population, we noted a significant finding in women over 60 years old. For this group, higher serum vitamin D concentrations were actually linked to a lower risk of KSD, suggesting a potential protective effect.
Despite these observations, it's noteworthy that an increase in vitamin D didn't correlate with a higher incidence of kidney stones, especially when serum calcium levels remained normal. This news could ease concerns around vitamin D supplementation solely aimed at boosting 25(OH)D levels. Overall, we could conclude that while there are nuances depending on age and sex, vitamin D’s role in kidney stone prevention appears limited.
Our comparisons focused on children who either continued or discontinued their vitamin D intake to observe any changes in the formation or size progression of kidney stones. Surprisingly, we did not find any significant differences between the two groups in terms of stone formation or size changes over one year.
While the findings suggest that stopping vitamin D may not affect kidney stone status, we remain cautious in making definitive recommendations. Therefore, we propose that vitamin D supplementation should continue for infants with kidney stones until further research provides clearer answers on its role.
To see if supplementing vitamin D3 would provide benefits, we gave 37 of these vitamin D-deficient patients a weekly dose of 20,000 IU for four months. While we noted that this supplementation raised serum vitamin D levels and reduced parathyroid hormone concentrations, the increase in urinary calcium excretion after treatment did not reach statistical significance.
Interestingly, 22 patients had higher calcium levels in their urine, but others experienced a decrease or no change. What’s crucial here is that six patients who were initially normal concerning calcium levels ended up developing hypercalciuria after treatment. This means we should carefully monitor patients who receive vitamin D3 to ensure that they do not experience unexpected increases in calcium excretion that could raise the risk of kidney stones.
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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.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that's essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, supporting immune system function, and facilitating normal cell growth and development. It plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the gut, which is vital for bone health. Unlike most vitamins, our bodies can produce Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, specifically UVB rays, which is why it’s often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin." However, depending on your geographical location, lifestyle, and skin type, getting sufficient Vitamin D from the sun alone can be challenging, particularly during the winter months.
In addition to sunlight, Vitamin D can be obtained from certain foods such as fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), fish liver oils, and fortified foods like milk and cereals. Some individuals may also consider supplements, especially if they're at risk for deficiency. Insufficient vitamin D levels are linked to various health issues, including rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, and even an increased risk of chronic diseases. Regularly checking your vitamin D levels and consulting with a healthcare professional can help ensure you're meeting your needs for optimal health.
Vitamin D plays a complex role in calcium metabolism and can indirectly influence kidney stone formation. While it is essential for maintaining healthy bones and aiding calcium absorption, excessive amounts of vitamin D can lead to elevated calcium levels in the blood, potentially increasing the risk of calcium-based kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Therefore, ensuring adequate levels of vitamin D is essential, but it's important to balance this with calcium intake and hydration to minimize stone formation risk.
If you're considering vitamin D supplementation or are concerned about kidney stones, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help evaluate your individual risk factors and advise on appropriate vitamin D levels, considering your dietary intake and existing health conditions. Remember, what works for one individual may not be suitable for another, especially regarding kidney stone prevention and management.
Based on user reviews, the timeframe for seeing results from taking vitamin D3 for kidney stones can vary significantly. Many users suggest that improvements can be noted within a couple of months of consistent use. For example, one user mentioned significant reduction in kidney stones starting from their use of the supplement, which they reported after a clear period of two months (Read Review). Another review emphasized the need to reassess after a two-month trial and monitor for any adverse effects to the kidneys (Read Review).
However, results may vary depending on individual health conditions and adherence to dosage recommendations. Some users have also indicated that combining vitamin D3 with K2 may enhance its effectiveness in managing kidney stone issues (Read Review). Overall, while two months appears to be a common reference point for initial results, it's advised to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice before starting any supplementation.
When it comes to the efficacy of vitamin D supplements in preventing kidney stones, the scientific research paints a nuanced picture. A study analyzing data from over 444,000 participants found that higher serum vitamin D levels did not show an overall link to kidney stones, except for women over 60, who exhibited a lower risk of developing the stones with increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels [1]. However, other investigations indicated that vitamin D supplementation might actually lead to increased urinary calcium levels, which is a risk factor for kidney stone formation. For instance, research demonstrated that participants receiving vitamin D3 experienced a notable rise in hypercalciuria, indicating higher calcium excretion in urine, which could potentially elevate the risk of stone formation [9].
Despite some evidence suggesting that vitamin D might correlate with lower kidney stone incidence in certain demographics, there are warnings about the potential risks associated with its supplementation. Multiple studies highlight that while vitamin D can increase serum levels and may provide some benefits, it also elevates urinary calcium, thereby increasing the risk of kidney stones, particularly in individuals with specific vulnerabilities like vitamin D deficiency [7]. Thus, while vitamin D could offer protective effects under certain conditions, its role in kidney stone prevention is not universally supportive and should be approached with caution.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported a variety of improvements in symptoms after taking vitamin D3. For example, some users noticed enhanced skin hydration and a general sense of well-being, as illustrated by a review mentioning softer skin and reduced thumb pain, which the user attributed to the combination of vitamin D3 and K2 (Read Review). Additionally, improvements in mood, skin health, and overall vitality were highlighted by another user who experienced a noticeable enhancement in various aspects of personal wellness, including better management of kidney stones (Read Review).
Moreover, several users noted significant reductions in kidney stones, specifically one who reported a marked decrease since beginning supplementation with D3 (Read Review). While many users found the supplement beneficial, it is essential to acknowledge that individual results can vary based on personal health conditions and adherence to recommended dosages, particularly for those with pre-existing kidney issues (Read Review). Caution is advised in monitoring effects, especially regarding high doses, to ensure optimal health outcomes.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have experimented with combining vitamin D3 with other supplements, particularly K2, in their efforts to manage kidney stones. Users report that the combination of vitamin D3 and K2 may help guide calcium appropriately within the body, thereby reducing the risk of kidney stones (Read Review). This synergy appears to enhance the effectiveness of the supplements, with several users noting that combining them supports overall kidney health and may lead to a reduction in kidney stone formation (Read Review).
However, there are also cautionary tales. A user reported a case where a family member developed kidney stones while taking a high dosage of vitamin D3 designed for another health issue, emphasizing that high doses may not always yield positive outcomes (Read Review). Many reviewers recommend monitoring vitamin D levels before initiating supplementation and reassessing after a period of use to mitigate any potential negative effects on kidney health (Read Review). Overall, while some users have found success with this combination, it's critical to exercise caution and consult with healthcare professionals to tailor approaches based on individual health needs.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report varying experiences with the right dose of Vitamin D for treating kidney stones. For example, one user notes that a weekly dose of 50,000 units proved effective while highlighting a noticeable improvement in kidney health, suggesting that higher strengths can be beneficial (Read Review). Another user takes a higher dose of Vitamin D3 and emphasizes the combined benefits with K2 for regulating calcium and reducing kidney stone occurrences (Read Review). Conversely, a cautionary note was raised by a user whose brother developed kidney stones while on high doses for eczema treatment, underscoring the complexity of finding the right balance (Read Review).
Several users advise monitoring Vitamin D levels and consulting with a doctor before starting supplementation. Testing is recommended to tailor the dosage to individual needs, especially for those with kidney or liver issues, as excessive doses may lead to complications (Read Review). Overall, while some users report positive effects on reducing kidney stones and improving general health, caution and individualized approaches are emphasized to avoid potential risks associated with high dosages.
Our analysis covered over 444,000 people, and we tracked the incidence of kidney stones over an average of 12.6 years. Interestingly, while higher 25(OH)D levels didn’t show a clear connection to kidney stones across the general population, we noted a significant finding in women over 60 years old. For this group, higher serum vitamin D concentrations were actually linked to a lower risk of KSD, suggesting a potential protective effect.
Despite these observations, it's noteworthy that an increase in vitamin D didn't correlate with a higher incidence of kidney stones, especially when serum calcium levels remained normal. This news could ease concerns around vitamin D supplementation solely aimed at boosting 25(OH)D levels. Overall, we could conclude that while there are nuances depending on age and sex, vitamin D’s role in kidney stone prevention appears limited.
After the supplementation, we observed some notable changes. While serum calcium and phosphate levels remained stable, the level of vitamin D3 in the blood saw a significant increase. This led to more kidney stone formers experiencing higher urinary calcium levels. Notably, the percentage of participants with hypercalciuria grew from 18.2% to 39.4%. We also noted an increase in urine supersaturation for brushite, hinting at a potential risk for stone formation.
Overall, our findings suggest that while vitamin D3 supplementation can elevate vitamin D levels, it may also increase urinary calcium and the risk of recurrences for kidney stones. Consequently, careful monitoring of urinary metabolic profiles for patients receiving vitamin D may be necessary to tailor preventive strategies effectively.
Both treatment approaches resulted in a significant increase in 24-hour urine calcium levels; however, there was no difference between the two methods. Importantly, neither regimen increased the supersaturation of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate, which are substances that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
We also observed a notable increase in serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, particularly in the weekly high-dose group, and a decline in serum parathyroid hormone in both groups. Despite these changes, it's crucial to highlight that our findings indicate no significant advantages in preventing kidney stones from vitamin D3 treatment alone.
References
- Gao C, Gao M, Huang Y. Association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and kidney stone: a cohort study in the UK Biobank. Int Urol Nephrol. 2024;56:3585. doi:10.1007/s11255-024-04111-8
- Dhayat NA, Mattmann C, Seeger H, Ritter A, Ernandez T, et al. The Vitamin D Metabolite Diagnostic Ratio Associates With Phenotypic Traits of Idiopathic Hypercalciuria. Kidney Int Rep. 2024;9:1072. doi:10.1016/j.ekir.2024.01.004
- Akinci A, Karaburun MC, Kubilay E, Solak VT, Sanci A, et al. Urinary stone in infants; should vitamin D prophylaxis be stopped?. J Pediatr Urol. 2024;20:604.e1. doi:10.1016/j.jpurol.2024.04.006
- 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. doi:10.1007/s11255-024-04021-9
- Sardari Masihi L, Borumandnia N, Taheri M, Basiri A, Imani H, et al. Effect of two vitamin D repletion protocols on 24-h urine calcium in patients with recurrent calcium kidney stones and vitamin D deficiency: a randomized clinical trial. Eur J Med Res. 2023;28:246. doi:10.1186/s40001-023-01226-z
- Isik G, Bozdag PG. Why is childhood urolithiasis increasing? Etiology, diagnosis and management: a single-center experience. J Nephrol. 2023;36:1599. doi:10.1007/s40620-023-01638-4
- Sardari Masihi L, Borumandnia N, Taheri M, Basiri A, Imani H, et al. Effect of two vitamin D repletion protocols on 24-h urine calcium in patients with recurrent calcium kidney stones and vitamin D deficiency: a randomized clinical trial. Eur J Med Res. 2023;28:246. doi:10.1186/s40001-023-01226-z
- Vitale C, Marangella M, Bermond F, Fabbrini L, Tricerri A. Metabolic effects of cholecalciferol supplementation in patients with calcium nephrolithiasis and vitamin D deficiency. World J Urol. 2021;39:597. doi:10.1007/s00345-020-03222-y
- Vitale C, Tricerri A, Bermond F, Fabbrini L, Guiotto C, et al. [Metabolic effects of Cholecalciferol supplementation in kidney stone formers with vitamin D deficiency]. G Ital Nefrol. 2018;35.
- Johri N, Jaeger P, Ferraro PM, Shavit L, Nair D, et al. Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among idiopathic stone formers, but does correction pose any risk?. Urolithiasis. 2017;45:535. doi:10.1007/s00240-016-0954-x
