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.
This supplement, particularly vitamin C, shows some promise in relation to kidney stone prevention according to several studies. Research indicates that higher dietary antioxidant intake, especially vitamin C, is associated with a lower risk of developing kidney stones. One study found that individuals who consumed 60 to 110 mg of vitamin C daily had a reduced chance of stone formation, with even greater protective effects noted at higher intakes [3]. However, the relationship is nuanced; another study highlighted that while moderate vitamin C intake may be beneficial, excessive supplementation can potentially increase the risk of kidney stones, especially in men [4], [6].
The potential for vitamin C to lower urine oxalate levels, a significant risk factor for stone formation, is noteworthy and suggests that specific formulations like Ester-C could help mitigate risks associated with traditional ascorbic acid [8]. On the flip side, the overall consensus leans toward caution regarding high vitamin C supplementation, particularly for men, who appear to face an elevated risk of developing kidney stones [6]. While these findings are encouraging, they underscore the necessity for further, long-term studies to fully understand the implications of vitamin C on kidney health.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in their symptoms when using Solgar's Vitamin C. Users have highlighted its efficacy in supporting immunity and alleviating symptoms related to colds and other ailments such as ARVI, with one user noting that increasing the dosage during illness helped resolve symptoms effectively (Read Review). The vitamin is praised for its high quality and lack of gastrointestinal irritation, making it a preferred choice for those sensitive to other forms of vitamin C (Read Review).
Furthermore, users appreciate the antioxidant properties of the supplement, which reportedly strengthen blood vessel walls and boost overall immunity (Read Review). While doses of 500 mg are seen as high, some consumers have effectively used higher doses in a short-term context, particularly in response to illness, emphasizing the importance of caution and personalized dosage management. It's essential to note that individual results can vary; while many users experience positive outcomes, others may want to be cautious, especially if they have pre-existing conditions such as kidney stones.
Based on user reviews, individuals have shared varied experiences regarding combining Solgar's Vitamin C with other supplements while managing kidney stones. Some users emphasize the importance of monitoring dosage, particularly for those with a history of kidney stones. For instance, one user explicitly warned against exceeding 1000 mg of vitamin C, as higher doses could increase oxalate production, which is a key factor in calcium oxalate stone formation (Read Review). Another user echoed the potential risks associated with elevated vitamin intake, suggesting that continuous high doses could lead to complications such as kidney stones (Read Review).
Additionally, the choice of vitamin C formulation matters. One reviewer highlighted that Solgar's Vitamin C does not promote kidney stone formation, in contrast to other forms like ascorbate, and recommended alternatives like Ester-C for those specifically dealing with urolithiasis (Read Review). Users seem to advocate for a cautious approach when combining supplements, keeping in mind personal health conditions and existing dietary habits.
The optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating kidney stones appears to be around 60 to 110 mg daily. Research suggests that individuals who consume this range of Vitamin C have a lower likelihood of developing kidney stones, with even greater protective effects noted at doses exceeding this amount [3]. However, it's essential to highlight that while moderate intake may be beneficial, excessive Vitamin C can lead to adverse outcomes. Specifically, a study indicated that high intake could eventually increase the risk of kidney stones if consumed beyond a certain threshold [2].
Moreover, dietary sources of Vitamin C seem safer compared to supplements. Men, in particular, have shown a higher incidence of kidney stones related to supplement use, especially at doses between 250 to 1499 mg per day [4]. Therefore, for those seeking to maintain kidney health and prevent stones, it's advisable to aim for dietary consumption of Vitamin C within the recommended range and be cautious with supplementation, especially for men [6].
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.