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
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
Most Useful Reviews
9
Highly effective
In my opinion, Solgar produces the best vitamin C among others; they are the finest company for vitamins and dietary supplements. The quality of their vitamin C is exceptional, truly invigorating and very effective for ARVI (I find it almost irreplaceable). It does not encourage the formation of kidney stones, which can occur with vitamin C ascorbate (I can confirm this as I have regular ultrasound scans and take vitamin C daily). It does not irritate the gastrointestinal tract; however, those with gastritis and urolithiasis should consider Ester-C from the same brand. I highly recommend it.
Read More
2
Recommended supplement
Good Vitamin C (500 mg) Veggie Caps from Solgar. This supplement contains L-ascorbic acid, microcrystalline cellulose, vegetable cellulose, and vegetable magnesium stearate. L-ascorbic acid is a biologically active substance with antioxidant properties that strengthens blood vessel walls and boosts immunity. The daily requirement for adults is 75-90 mg, while this supplement contains 500 mg. If you have kidney stones, avoid exceeding 1000 mg of vitamin C due to the risk of increased oxalate production and calcium oxalate formation in the kidneys. Care is also warranted with elevated iron levels, as vitamin C enhances iron absorption. I recommend this supplement.
Read More
0
Exercise caution
7 people found this helpful
Be careful with the dosage. 500 mg of vitamin C is over 800% of the daily requirement. If you also eat fruit and greens, has that been counted? An oversupply of vitamins is not beneficial! My family consumes it in weekly courses during autumn, winter, and spring, and occasionally (twice daily) after contact with the ill or overexposure to cold. If symptoms appear, then 1000 to 1500 mg for three days sorts everything out. However, this is our personal experience. I emphasise being attentive to large doses. I noticed in reviews that some consume it continuously, which can lead to kidney stones. The quality of vitamin C is excellent, and I trust this brand entirely. Although pricier than many others, I believe it’s unwise to economise on health.
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
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
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.
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.
In my opinion, Solgar produces the best vitamin C among others; they are the finest company for vitamins and dietary supplements. The quality of their vitamin C is exceptional, truly invigorating and very effective for ARVI (I find it almost irreplaceable). It does not encourage the formation of kidney stones, which can occur with vitamin C ascorbate (I can confirm this as I have regular ultrasound scans and take vitamin C daily). It does not irritate the gastrointestinal tract; however, those with gastritis and urolithiasis should consider Ester-C from the same brand. I highly recommend it.
Read More
2
Recommended supplement
Good Vitamin C (500 mg) Veggie Caps from Solgar. This supplement contains L-ascorbic acid, microcrystalline cellulose, vegetable cellulose, and vegetable magnesium stearate. L-ascorbic acid is a biologically active substance with antioxidant properties that strengthens blood vessel walls and boosts immunity. The daily requirement for adults is 75-90 mg, while this supplement contains 500 mg. If you have kidney stones, avoid exceeding 1000 mg of vitamin C due to the risk of increased oxalate production and calcium oxalate formation in the kidneys. Care is also warranted with elevated iron levels, as vitamin C enhances iron absorption. I recommend this supplement.
Read More
0
Exercise caution
7 people found this helpful
Be careful with the dosage. 500 mg of vitamin C is over 800% of the daily requirement. If you also eat fruit and greens, has that been counted? An oversupply of vitamins is not beneficial! My family consumes it in weekly courses during autumn, winter, and spring, and occasionally (twice daily) after contact with the ill or overexposure to cold. If symptoms appear, then 1000 to 1500 mg for three days sorts everything out. However, this is our personal experience. I emphasise being attentive to large doses. I noticed in reviews that some consume it continuously, which can lead to kidney stones. The quality of vitamin C is excellent, and I trust this brand entirely. Although pricier than many others, I believe it’s unwise to economise on health.
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.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions. As an essential nutrient, it contributes to the growth and repair of tissues in the body, and it is vital for the production of collagen, an important protein that helps maintain skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Additionally, Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, which means it helps combat free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to various chronic diseases.
Moreover, Vitamin C enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods, making it a vital component for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. While many people get sufficient Vitamin C from a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, and bell peppers, some individuals might require supplementation. It's generally recommended to stay within the daily intake guidelines, as excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances. Overall, Vitamin C is not just a skincare celebrity—it's a fundamental part of maintaining overall health and well-being.
The scientific research on the role of vitamin C in kidney stone prevention presents a mixed picture. Several studies indicate that higher dietary intake of vitamin C is correlated with a decreased risk of developing kidney stones. For instance, a large cohort study found that individuals consuming 60 to 110 mg of vitamin C daily experienced a lower chance of stone formation, particularly those who exceeded this amount [3]. Furthermore, a review showed that dietary sources of vitamin C did not appear to significantly increase kidney stone risk for either men or women, whereas high-dose vitamin C supplements could elevate the risk in men [6].
However, while moderate intake of vitamin C may convey protective effects, there is also research suggesting that excessive intake can lead to an increased likelihood of kidney stone formation, especially in men [2]. Additionally, the beneficial effects of vitamin C may be enhanced when consumed along with other vitamins, indicating that overall dietary balance is critical [2]. Therefore, while moderate dietary vitamin C intake may be beneficial in reducing the risk of kidney stones, the implications of high-dose supplements need careful consideration to avoid potential adverse effects.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their overall health when using Solgar's vitamin C. Users frequently mention its effectiveness in boosting immunity and aiding in recovery from common colds or ARVI. One user highlighted the invigorating nature of the product and its efficacy, stating it is "almost irreplaceable" for addressing respiratory issues, confirming that it does not lead to kidney stone formation, a common concern with vitamin C supplements Read Review.
Others appreciate its antioxidant properties, which not only support the immune system but also strengthen blood vessel walls Read Review. Some families incorporate it into their seasonal routine as a preventive measure against illnesses during autumn and winter, noting that higher doses during acute symptoms can provide relief Read Review. While experiences vary, the general consensus seems to emphasize strong satisfaction with the quality and effectiveness of this vitamin C supplement.
Based on user reviews, there are mixed reports regarding the combination of Solgar's vitamin C with other supplements when managing kidney stones. Some users caution against high doses of vitamin C due to the risk of increased oxalate production, which could lead to the formation of calcium oxalate stones in the kidneys. One user specifically noted that if individuals have kidney stones, it might be wise to avoid exceeding 1000 mg of vitamin C daily Read Review.
Additionally, another review emphasized the importance of careful dosage, warning that while vitamin C can be beneficial, oversupplying the body with vitamins—especially when combined with dietary sources—could be detrimental Read Review. They stressed that although the quality of the product is excellent, maintaining awareness of the total vitamin intake is crucial to avoid adverse effects, particularly for those with a history of kidney stones. Overall, users suggest consulting with a healthcare professional when considering the combination of multiple supplements for kidney stone management.
Research indicates that when it comes to using vitamin C to treat or prevent kidney stones, moderation is key. Specifically, individuals consuming between 60 to 110 mg of vitamin C daily had a notably lower risk of forming kidney stones. Moreover, those exceeding this range seemed to experience even greater protective effects [3]. However, caution is warranted: excessively high doses of vitamin C, particularly from supplements, can increase the risk of developing stones, especially in men, who showed higher incidence rates at doses between 250 to 1499 mg per day [4].
This nuanced relationship suggests that while vitamin C can contribute positively to kidney stone prevention, it must be consumed in appropriate amounts. Health professionals often recommend focusing on natural dietary sources of vitamin C, as these do not appear to correlate with an increased risk of stones, unlike supplements which may pose risks to certain populations. Therefore, a balanced intake is essential to harness the benefits of vitamin C while minimizing potential downsides [6].
9
Highly effective
In my opinion, Solgar produces the best vitamin C among others; they are the finest company for vitamins and dietary supplements. The quality of their vitamin C is exceptional, truly invigorating and very effective for ARVI (I find it almost irreplaceable). It does not encourage the formation of kidney stones, which can occur with vitamin C ascorbate (I can confirm this as I have regular ultrasound scans and take vitamin C daily). It does not irritate the gastrointestinal tract; however, those with gastritis and urolithiasis should consider Ester-C from the same brand. I highly recommend it.
2
Recommended supplement
Good Vitamin C (500 mg) Veggie Caps from Solgar. This supplement contains L-ascorbic acid, microcrystalline cellulose, vegetable cellulose, and vegetable magnesium stearate. L-ascorbic acid is a biologically active substance with antioxidant properties that strengthens blood vessel walls and boosts immunity. The daily requirement for adults is 75-90 mg, while this supplement contains 500 mg. If you have kidney stones, avoid exceeding 1000 mg of vitamin C due to the risk of increased oxalate production and calcium oxalate formation in the kidneys. Care is also warranted with elevated iron levels, as vitamin C enhances iron absorption. I recommend this supplement.
0
Exercise caution
7 people found this helpful
Be careful with the dosage. 500 mg of vitamin C is over 800% of the daily requirement. If you also eat fruit and greens, has that been counted? An oversupply of vitamins is not beneficial! My family consumes it in weekly courses during autumn, winter, and spring, and occasionally (twice daily) after contact with the ill or overexposure to cold. If symptoms appear, then 1000 to 1500 mg for three days sorts everything out. However, this is our personal experience. I emphasise being attentive to large doses. I noticed in reviews that some consume it continuously, which can lead to kidney stones. The quality of vitamin C is excellent, and I trust this brand entirely. Although pricier than many others, I believe it’s unwise to economise on health.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.