Cause 10: Excessive Vitamin C Supplementation: The Hidden Risk of Kidney Stones
While vitamin C is essential for overall health, excessive supplementation can increase the risk of kidney stone formation, particularly calcium oxalate stones. When the body metabolizes vitamin C, it produces oxalate as a byproduct. High levels of vitamin C intake can lead to increased oxalate production and a higher risk of kidney stones.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 90 milligrams (mg) per day for adult men and 75 mg per day for adult women. Consuming more than the recommended amount through supplementation may not provide additional health benefits and could increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
To minimize the risk of kidney stones, it’s essential to obtain adequate amounts of vitamin C through a balanced diet, including foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli. If you feel the need to supplement with vitamin C, consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate dosage based on individual needs and medical history. (9)
