High levels of vitamin C double the risk of kidney stones in men

Swedish researchers report that high levels of vitamin C double the risk of kidney stones in men. A new study has helped clarify the connection between the consumption of this vitamin and urolithiasis, although many people until recently were surprised by the fact that vitamin C can harm the body.

Kidney stones are tiny formations (crystals) that can cause painful obstruction in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of urolithiasis include:

• Severe pain in the lower abdomen and genital area.
• Urinary urgency.
• Blood in the urine.
• Sweating.
• Anxiety.
• Nausea.
• Vomit.

Kidney stones can be caused by a diet high in animal protein, sodium, fructose, refined sugar, and drinks like cola. Insufficient fluid intake also contributes to the formation of stones. In addition, the overall risk of urolithiasis in women is much lower than in men. Researchers suspect that high levels of vitamin C increase the risk of stone formation because the body breaks down large amounts of ascorbic acid into oxalate, a component of kidney stones.
In the latest work, the results of which were published in the publication of the American Medical Association "JAMA Internal Medicine", Swedish researchers observed 23,000 men aged 45 to 80 for 12 years (from 1997 to 2009). At the beginning of the study, none of them had kidney stones.

Approximately 900 men in this group took 1,000 mg of ascorbic acid daily, which resulted in stone formation in 3% (31 participants). In the group not taking vitamin C, the incidence of this disease was less than 2%. The researchers took into account secondary factors such as the social and educational level, age and body weight of the participants.

They found that the odds ratio in this group was 1.7-2.2, meaning the risk approximately doubled. It is worth reassuring you by recalling that not a single food supplement or multivitamin complex contains such an amount of ascorbic acid. Therefore, you can get a dose of 1,000 mg only if you grossly violate the instructions for taking these drugs. If you are concerned about the possible effects of taking vitamin C on your health, consult your doctor.

And for any questions you may have, please call Urologic Complex: +(998 71) 140-03-03, +(998 71) 140-01-60.