We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, on urinary factors linked to the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. In our study, we had 15 healthy participants follow a standardized diet over several phases to assess how daily supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid influenced their urinary excretion of calcium and oxalate.
Initially, during a 5-day control phase, we collected daily urine samples and observed no changes in the urinary parameters. However, after 30 days of supplementation, we noted a significant decrease—23%—in the relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate, primarily due to reduced oxalate excretion. This suggests that the supplementation may lower the risk of stone formation by affecting how the body manages oxalate.
Our findings propose that long-term use of eicosapentaenoic acid could be beneficial for those prone to calcium oxalate stones. The beneficial effect appears to arise from changes at the cellular level, altering how oxalate is exchanged. In summary, eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation holds promise as a preventive measure against kidney stones for certain individuals.
Read More
9
EPA supplementation reduces kidney stones
The protective role of eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] in the pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis.
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a key component found in fish oil, on kidney stone formation. Previous observations suggested that populations with high fish intake, like the Greenland Eskimos, showed lower rates of kidney stones. This prompted an investigation into how EPA could play a protective role against kidney stones by influencing biological processes related to stone formation.
To delve deeper, we conducted experiments using an animal model designed to induce nephrocalcinosis, a condition often linked to kidney stones. The study involved three groups of animals: one received a calcium-inducing injection, another was pre-treated with fish oil, and a third group only received saline. Remarkably, the animals treated with fish oil experienced a significant reduction in calcium excretion compared to controls, which showcased a strong prevention effect against nephrocalcinosis.
We also looked at human subjects suffering from recurrent kidney stones. After eight weeks of fish oil treatment, these individuals showed lower urinary levels of calcium and oxalate, indicating a favorable response to the intervention without any side effects. Overall, our findings suggest that incorporating EPA into diets might offer a novel way to address the biochemical issues that contribute to kidney stone formation.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid reduces kidney stones
Eicosapentaenoic acid has a preventive effect on the recurrence of nephrolithiasis.
We explored the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in reducing the recurrence of kidney stones, a common and painful condition. To investigate this, we administered a highly purified form of EPA at a daily dose of 1,800 mg to 29 patients over an average period of about 36 months.
Our aim was to observe urinary stone recurrence rates in these participants over eight years, considering periods before, during, and after EPA treatment. The findings were promising, indicating that while the incidence rates of kidney stones varied over time, they were significantly lower during the period when EPA was taken compared to before and after its use.
Specifically, the incidence rate dropped from roughly 0.2283 times a year before treatment to 0.0693 times during treatment, and then increased to 0.1742 times after treatment ended. This strongly suggests that EPA could play a role in reducing the risk of forming calcium stones.
Overall, we believe that these results point towards the effectiveness of EPA as a preventive measure for kidney stones, offering a potential dietary intervention for individuals prone to this condition.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Improved health
4 people found this helpful
I started using Now supplements to enhance my overall health, and I have noticed significant improvement. I have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and must be cautious about the supplements I take. These have notably helped me with the anaemia related to CKD. The pills are easy to swallow, offer great value, and I barely notice any taste when I take them.
Read More
2
Satisfactory for mum
1 people found this helpful
I purchased this for my mother who drinks it regularly and is very happy with it. Unfortunately, I cannot have it, as my kidneys react adversely.
Read More
0
Harmful effect
I did not appreciate the smell after consuming it, and I feel it aggravates my kidneys, unlike another brand that I enjoyed.
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) combined with other dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids on kidney stone formation in cats. In a well-structured study with twelve domestic short-haired cats, we divided the participants into two groups. For the first week, all cats were on a control diet with minimal mandated fatty acids, which served as a baseline for the experiment.
After the initial week, Group 1 continued on the control food while Group 2 switched to a test diet enriched with fish oil, which included EPA along with arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Over the 56-day study, we observed impressive increases in serum levels of EPA (173%), DHA (61%), and AA (35%) in Group 2. This dietary shift significantly decreased urine specific gravity and calcium concentration, which are crucial factors in kidney stone formation.
Additionally, findings showed benefits in reducing struvite crystal formation and enhancing resistance to oxalate crystal development. Our data suggest that increasing dietary EPA could be a valuable strategy to lower the risk of kidney stones in cats, improving their overall health.
Read More
9
Eicosapentaenoic acid reduces stone risk
Effect of n-3 fatty acid supplementation on urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate stone formation.
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, on urinary factors linked to the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. In our study, we had 15 healthy participants follow a standardized diet over several phases to assess how daily supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid influenced their urinary excretion of calcium and oxalate.
Initially, during a 5-day control phase, we collected daily urine samples and observed no changes in the urinary parameters. However, after 30 days of supplementation, we noted a significant decrease—23%—in the relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate, primarily due to reduced oxalate excretion. This suggests that the supplementation may lower the risk of stone formation by affecting how the body manages oxalate.
Our findings propose that long-term use of eicosapentaenoic acid could be beneficial for those prone to calcium oxalate stones. The beneficial effect appears to arise from changes at the cellular level, altering how oxalate is exchanged. In summary, eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation holds promise as a preventive measure against kidney stones for certain individuals.
We investigated the effects of a combination of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and lipoic acid (LA) on kidney health, particularly focusing on kidney stones. Our research involved hyperoxaluric rats, a model commonly used to study kidney stone formation.
We noticed that elevated levels of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorus were present in these rats, indicating a potential for crystal formation. The damage to the kidney tubules was assessed through the measurement of specific enzymes found in urine, which revealed significant tubular damage due to oxalate exposure.
Interestingly, both EPA and LA, as well as their combined derivative EPA-LA, showed promise in reducing this tubular damage. The markers of crystal deposition were notably lower with treatment, and we also found a reduction in the weight of the bladder stones formed.
Our findings suggest that the EPA-LA derivative is particularly effective at minimizing kidney damage and preventing stone formation, marking it as a potential nephroprotectant. More research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of this new derivative in kidney health.
Read More
9
EPA supplementation reduces kidney stones
The protective role of eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] in the pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis.
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a key component found in fish oil, on kidney stone formation. Previous observations suggested that populations with high fish intake, like the Greenland Eskimos, showed lower rates of kidney stones. This prompted an investigation into how EPA could play a protective role against kidney stones by influencing biological processes related to stone formation.
To delve deeper, we conducted experiments using an animal model designed to induce nephrocalcinosis, a condition often linked to kidney stones. The study involved three groups of animals: one received a calcium-inducing injection, another was pre-treated with fish oil, and a third group only received saline. Remarkably, the animals treated with fish oil experienced a significant reduction in calcium excretion compared to controls, which showcased a strong prevention effect against nephrocalcinosis.
We also looked at human subjects suffering from recurrent kidney stones. After eight weeks of fish oil treatment, these individuals showed lower urinary levels of calcium and oxalate, indicating a favorable response to the intervention without any side effects. Overall, our findings suggest that incorporating EPA into diets might offer a novel way to address the biochemical issues that contribute to kidney stone formation.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid may prevent stones
The Efficacy of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids as Protectors against Calcium Oxalate Renal Stone Formation: A Review.
We investigated the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), particularly found in fish oil, on the formation of kidney stones. Our review focused on how this omega-3 fatty acid might help reduce urinary levels of calcium and oxalate, which are key players in stone formation.
Throughout our review, we analyzed various studies, including a total of 16 trials involving human participants. These trials looked into the effects of dietary modifications, particularly those incorporating EPA alongside other supplements like evening primrose oil. Notably, we found that while most trials reported reductions in urinary calcium and oxalate, the effects were most pronounced in those that employed fish oil, which contains both EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
By examining these findings, we recommend using fish oil rich in EPA and DHA as a management strategy for calcium oxalate urolithiasis, or kidney stones formed from calcium and oxalate. However, while EPA has demonstrated potential benefits, it's essential to view these results in the context of broader dietary influences and other fats being tested.
I started using Now supplements to enhance my overall health, and I have noticed significant improvement. I have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and must be cautious about the supplements I take. These have notably helped me with the anaemia related to CKD. The pills are easy to swallow, offer great value, and I barely notice any taste when I take them.
Read More
2
Satisfactory for mum
1 people found this helpful
I purchased this for my mother who drinks it regularly and is very happy with it. Unfortunately, I cannot have it, as my kidneys react adversely.
Read More
0
Harmful effect
I did not appreciate the smell after consuming it, and I feel it aggravates my kidneys, unlike another brand that I enjoyed.
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.
Omega-3 fish oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the fatty tissues of fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. The most significant types of omega-3s found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are known for their numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and promoting brain function.
Incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your diet can be beneficial if you don’t consume enough fish regularly. Many health experts recommend oily fish as a part of a balanced diet due to their high omega-3 content. For those who find it difficult to include fish in their meals, fish oil supplements can offer a convenient alternative, providing the same essential fatty acids in concentrated form. However, it’s essential to choose high-quality supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency to avoid contaminants such as heavy metals or other toxins that can impact health.
Recent scientific research supports the use of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), primarily found in fish oil, as a potential supplement for kidney stone prevention. Multiple studies indicate that EPA may help lower urinary levels of calcium and oxalate, which are critical factors in stone formation. For instance, a controlled study demonstrated that daily supplementation with EPA resulted in a remarkable 23% decrease in the relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate among participants over 30 days ([3]). Furthermore, another study observed significant reduction in urinary calcium excretion and stone recurrence rates among individuals who took EPA over an extended period ([4]).
While the research primarily focused on EPA’s efficacy, it also highlights the importance of dietary choices and consumption patterns in managing kidney stone risks. Studies have shown that populations with high fish intake, which is rich in EPA, tend to have lower instances of kidney stones ([7]). Collectively, these findings suggest that incorporating EPA into one’s diet, especially through fish oil supplements, might be a practical strategy for those at risk of calcium oxalate stone formation.[1]
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported noticeable improvements in their symptoms after incorporating Now supplements into their health routines. For example, one user suffering from Chronic Kidney Disease mentioned a significant enhancement in their anemia symptoms, resulting in a better overall health experience. They highlighted how the supplements offered great value and were easy to consume without much taste, suggesting a positive adaptation to their health regime Read Review.
However, it is important to keep in mind that experiences can vary widely from person to person. While some users have found success, others have reported adverse reactions. One user shared that they could not use the product due to negative effects on their kidney health, while another expressed dissatisfaction with the smell and indicated it aggravated their kidney condition compared to other brands they preferred Read ReviewRead Review. Therefore, it is critical for potential users, especially those with underlying health concerns, to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Research suggests that a daily dose of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), particularly when sourced from fish oil, holds promise for reducing the risk of kidney stones, specifically calcium oxalate stones. One notable study indicated that a daily supplementation of 1,800 mg of EPA for about 36 months resulted in a significant decrease in kidney stone incidence among participants. The incidence rate of kidney stones dropped notably during the supplementation period compared to both pre-treatment and post-treatment times [4]. Additionally, another study found that a combined daily supplementation of 900 mg of EPA and 600 mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) resulted in a 23% decrease in urinary oxalate excretion, further supporting the notion that these omega-3 fatty acids may effectively manage the biochemistry associated with stone formation [3].
While these findings are promising, it's crucial to consider that the results often involve combinations of EPA and DHA, which complicates determining the individual contributions of each fatty acid. Nevertheless, incorporating fish oil rich in both EPA and DHA into a dietary regimen may be beneficial for those at risk for kidney stones, as it appears to improve urine parameters vital for stone formation prevention [1]. Overall, while specific optimal dosing may require further research, the current literature highlights the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in kidney stone management.
7.5
Improved health
4 people found this helpful
I started using Now supplements to enhance my overall health, and I have noticed significant improvement. I have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and must be cautious about the supplements I take. These have notably helped me with the anaemia related to CKD. The pills are easy to swallow, offer great value, and I barely notice any taste when I take them.
2
Satisfactory for mum
1 people found this helpful
I purchased this for my mother who drinks it regularly and is very happy with it. Unfortunately, I cannot have it, as my kidneys react adversely.
0
Harmful effect
I did not appreciate the smell after consuming it, and I feel it aggravates my kidneys, unlike another brand that I enjoyed.
9
Eicosapentaenoic acid reduces stone risk
Effect of n-3 fatty acid supplementation on urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate stone formation.
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, on urinary factors linked to the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. In our study, we had 15 healthy participants follow a standardized diet over several phases to assess how daily supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid influenced their urinary excretion of calcium and oxalate.
Initially, during a 5-day control phase, we collected daily urine samples and observed no changes in the urinary parameters. However, after 30 days of supplementation, we noted a significant decrease—23%—in the relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate, primarily due to reduced oxalate excretion. This suggests that the supplementation may lower the risk of stone formation by affecting how the body manages oxalate.
Our findings propose that long-term use of eicosapentaenoic acid could be beneficial for those prone to calcium oxalate stones. The beneficial effect appears to arise from changes at the cellular level, altering how oxalate is exchanged. In summary, eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation holds promise as a preventive measure against kidney stones for certain individuals.
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid reduces kidney stones
Eicosapentaenoic acid has a preventive effect on the recurrence of nephrolithiasis.
We explored the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in reducing the recurrence of kidney stones, a common and painful condition. To investigate this, we administered a highly purified form of EPA at a daily dose of 1,800 mg to 29 patients over an average period of about 36 months.
Our aim was to observe urinary stone recurrence rates in these participants over eight years, considering periods before, during, and after EPA treatment. The findings were promising, indicating that while the incidence rates of kidney stones varied over time, they were significantly lower during the period when EPA was taken compared to before and after its use.
Specifically, the incidence rate dropped from roughly 0.2283 times a year before treatment to 0.0693 times during treatment, and then increased to 0.1742 times after treatment ended. This strongly suggests that EPA could play a role in reducing the risk of forming calcium stones.
Overall, we believe that these results point towards the effectiveness of EPA as a preventive measure for kidney stones, offering a potential dietary intervention for individuals prone to this condition.
9
EPA supplementation reduces kidney stones
The protective role of eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] in the pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis.
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a key component found in fish oil, on kidney stone formation. Previous observations suggested that populations with high fish intake, like the Greenland Eskimos, showed lower rates of kidney stones. This prompted an investigation into how EPA could play a protective role against kidney stones by influencing biological processes related to stone formation.
To delve deeper, we conducted experiments using an animal model designed to induce nephrocalcinosis, a condition often linked to kidney stones. The study involved three groups of animals: one received a calcium-inducing injection, another was pre-treated with fish oil, and a third group only received saline. Remarkably, the animals treated with fish oil experienced a significant reduction in calcium excretion compared to controls, which showcased a strong prevention effect against nephrocalcinosis.
We also looked at human subjects suffering from recurrent kidney stones. After eight weeks of fish oil treatment, these individuals showed lower urinary levels of calcium and oxalate, indicating a favorable response to the intervention without any side effects. Overall, our findings suggest that incorporating EPA into diets might offer a novel way to address the biochemical issues that contribute to kidney stone formation.
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid may prevent stones
The Efficacy of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids as Protectors against Calcium Oxalate Renal Stone Formation: A Review.
We investigated the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), particularly found in fish oil, on the formation of kidney stones. Our review focused on how this omega-3 fatty acid might help reduce urinary levels of calcium and oxalate, which are key players in stone formation.
Throughout our review, we analyzed various studies, including a total of 16 trials involving human participants. These trials looked into the effects of dietary modifications, particularly those incorporating EPA alongside other supplements like evening primrose oil. Notably, we found that while most trials reported reductions in urinary calcium and oxalate, the effects were most pronounced in those that employed fish oil, which contains both EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
By examining these findings, we recommend using fish oil rich in EPA and DHA as a management strategy for calcium oxalate urolithiasis, or kidney stones formed from calcium and oxalate. However, while EPA has demonstrated potential benefits, it's essential to view these results in the context of broader dietary influences and other fats being tested.
References
Rodgers AL, Siener R. The Efficacy of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids as Protectors against Calcium Oxalate Renal Stone Formation: A Review. Nutrients. 2020;12. doi:10.3390/nu12041069
Hall JA, Brockman JA, Davidson SJ, MacLeay JM, Jewell DE. Increased dietary long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids alter serum fatty acid concentrations and lower risk of urine stone formation in cats. PLoS One. 2017;12:e0187133. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0187133
Siener R, Jansen B, Watzer B, Hesse A. Effect of n-3 fatty acid supplementation on urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate stone formation. J Urol. 2011;185:719. doi:10.1016/j.juro.2010.09.074
Yasui T, Suzuki S, Itoh Y, Tozawa K, Tokudome S, et al. Eicosapentaenoic acid has a preventive effect on the recurrence of nephrolithiasis. Urol Int. 2008;81:135. doi:10.1159/000144050
Lenin M, Thiagarajan A, Nagaraj M, Varalakshmi P. Attenuation of oxalate-induced nephrotoxicity by eicosapentaenoate-lipoate (EPA-LA) derivative in experimental rat model. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2001;65:265.
Kajikawa H. [The influence of dietary lipids on nephrolithiasis in rats]. Nihon Hinyokika Gakkai Zasshi. 1998;89:931.
Buck AC, Davies RL, Harrison T. The protective role of eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] in the pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis. J Urol. 1991;146:188.