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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.
While the research surrounding vitamin D and kidney stones presents a mixed bag, there are notable insights worth considering. Several studies indicate that vitamin D may not significantly lower the risk of kidney stones for the general population. For instance, research conducted using UK Biobank data found no clear connection between higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and kidney stone formation except for a potential protective effect in women over 60 [1]. Similarly, clinical trials have shown that while vitamin D supplementation can increase urinary calcium levels—a contributor to stone formation—it does not appear to enhance other critical factors related to stone supersaturation [7].
On the other hand, some findings suggest that increasing vitamin D intake might offer protective benefits against kidney stones, particularly when combined with other vitamins. A national health survey linked higher vitamin D intake to a reduced likelihood of experiencing kidney stones, though this relationship seems nuanced and influenced by other dietary factors like vitamin C [4]. However, caution is emphasized, especially in pediatric populations where excessive vitamin D supplementation could lead to elevated urine calcium levels, thus increasing the stone risk [6]. In summary, while certain studies hint at potential benefits, the overall support for vitamin D as a supplement for preventing kidney stones remains inconclusive.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive improvements in their symptoms after taking vitamin D3. For instance, one user noted that their son's energy levels significantly increased, cramps ceased, and his mood improved after starting a daily dosage of 4000 IU, following an endocrinologist consultation for vitamin D insufficiency (Read Review). Another reviewer emphasized the importance of sufficient vitamin D levels in relation to overall health and even mentioned its potential impact on COVID-19 risks, suggesting a proactive approach to supplementation (Read Review).
However, it's important to note that individual results can vary widely. Some users have reported adverse effects, including kidney pain and discomfort related to their dosage of vitamin D (Read Review) (Read Review). Others have indicated that adjusting their intake may help alleviate such issues. For example, one individual lowered their intake to 2000 IU after experiencing kidney stone problems (Read Review). The mixed experiences underline the importance of personal monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers to determine the best course of action for each individual.
Users have expressed a variety of experiences when combining this supplement with others for managing kidney stones. Some users suggest that pairing vitamin D3 with vitamin K2 can be beneficial, especially in preventing calcium deposits that may lead to kidney stones (Read Review). A reviewer noted that higher doses above 5000 IU should be considered in conjunction with K2 to mitigate potential issues.
Conversely, several users reported adverse effects associated with vitamin D3, particularly concerning kidney pain. One user highlighted their decision to lower their dosage from 5000 IU to 2000 IU due to the recurrence of kidney stone problems, indicating a more cautious approach (Read Review). Others experienced discomfort and pain that resolved upon discontinuation of the supplement (Read Review) (Read Review) (Read Review). These mixed reports suggest that while there may be potential benefits, individuals should approach supplementation carefully and consider consulting healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Users report varied experiences regarding the appropriate dosage of Vitamin D for treating kidney stones. For instance, one user mentions starting at a dosage of 4000 IU daily after discovering a deficiency, which was linked to his son's kidney stone risk alongside calcium absorption issues (Read Review). Others recommend a more moderate intake of around 2000 IU daily for those without a severe deficiency, cautioning against exceeding 5000 IU unless paired with vitamin K2, as high dosages without proper balance could contribute to kidney stones through calcium deposits (Read Review).
Conversely, there are reports of discomfort and kidney pain associated with higher dosages of Vitamin D. One individual lowered their intake from 5000 IU to 2000 IU after experiencing a recurrence of kidney stones, reflecting an effort to manage the issue more carefully (Read Review). Several users noted uncomfortable kidney sensations while taking Vitamin D, implying that while beneficial for some, caution is warranted, and stopping the intake relieved their pain (Read Review) (Read Review) (Read Review).
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.
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.
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.
Among our findings, we discovered that vitamin D supplementation, particularly at doses higher than 400 IU per day, might pose a risk for kidney stone formation in children. Interestingly, we also noted that many mothers tended not to offer water to their infants, which could impact hydration levels and potentially influence stone development.
In addition to vitamin D levels, we observed other factors such as family history and metabolic issues that are linked to kidney stones. Though potassium citrate was a beneficial treatment in many cases, our work revealed that vitamin D supplementation itself could be a double-edged sword, necessitating careful monitoring of its dosage in pediatric patients.
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
