If you’ve ever been unfortunate enough to experience kidney stones, then you know just how painful they can be. Some people swear by drinking lots of water to prevent kidney stones from forming, while others say that taking vitamin C supplements can help. So, what’s the verdict? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using vitamin c and kidney stones.
The Pros of Vitamin C for Kidney Stones
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for human health. It plays an important role in supporting the immune system and helps the body to absorb iron. Vitamin C is also thought to increase levels of citrate in the urine, which can help to prevent kidney stones from forming. Citrate binds to calcium in the urine and prevents it from crystallizing into kidney stones.
Additionally, research has shown that taking vitamin C supplements may decrease the risk of developing calcium oxalate kidney stones by up to 44%. Also, in a study of over 80,000 women, those who had the highest intake of vitamin C were 62% less likely to develop kidney stones compared to those with the lowest intake.
The Cons of Vitamin C for Kidney Stones
While some studies have shown that vitamin C may help to prevent kidney stones, other studies have not found such a link. In fact, one large study found that people who took vitamin C supplements actually had a higher risk of developing kidney stones than those who did not take supplements. It’s possible that high doses of vitamin C may actually increase levels of oxalate in the urine, which could lead to the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, it’s important to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you have a history of kidney stones.
Additionally, there may be other potential risks to taking high doses of vitamin C supplements, such as stomach discomfort or kidney damage. It’s always best to try and get your nutrients from natural food sources rather than supplements, as the body can process them better.
Conclusion:
Deciding to take vitamin C supplements for kidney stones is a personal decision, and it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. While Vitamin C may help prevent kidney stones in some people, there is not enough evidence to recommend them as a specific treatment for kidney stones. As always, drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy diet are the best ways to prevent kidney stones. If you have a history of kidney stones or any concerns, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
