Do Vitamin Effervescent Tablets and Legumes Increase Kidney Stone Risk?

What is the relationship between vitamin effervescent tablets, legume products, and kidney stones?

Hello Dr.
Lee, I recently underwent a kidney ultrasound due to lupus erythematosus and discovered a 0.2 cm kidney stone.
The last kidney ultrasound was about a year ago, and there were no stones present at that time.
During this past year, due to persistently low albumin levels related to lupus, I consulted with a nutritionist and modified my diet to increase my intake of legumes.
Additionally, I have been adjusting the timing of my meals and continuously taking vitamin effervescent tablets.
Currently, I consume about 200-400 ml of soy milk daily and approximately 11 servings (880g) of tofu weekly.
I also take about two vitamin C effervescent tablets per week (Vitamin C 600 mg / Zinc 5 mg / Sodium 526 mg) and two calcium effervescent tablets (Vitamin D 5 mcg (200 IU) / Calcium 400 mg / Magnesium 300 mg / Sodium 246 mg).
*I also take B vitamins, about two tablets per week.* For dairy, I consume approximately 1000g of yogurt weekly.
I would like to ask the doctor if this intake of legumes and vitamin supplements could potentially cause kidney stones, increase the likelihood of kidney stones, or place a burden on the kidneys.
Thank you!

Ian, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/12

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Generally, when an ultrasound detects a 0.2 cm stone, it is often not a stone but rather some calcifications.
It is important to recommend a visit to a urologist for examination.
If there are genuine concerns, at least a follow-up with the urology clinic every six months is advisable.
Under the premise of evidence-based medicine, it is quite challenging to confirm whether daily life factors are related to stone formation.
Based on your description, there seems to be no issue.
Currently, it has been confirmed that sugary beverages are associated with kidney stones.

Reply Date: 2021/09/12

More Info

The relationship between dietary intake, particularly of legumes and vitamin effervescent tablets, and the risk of kidney stones is a complex one. Based on the information provided, you have made significant dietary changes due to your lupus condition, including increased consumption of legumes and the use of vitamin supplements. Let's break down the potential implications of these changes on kidney stone formation.

Legumes and Kidney Stones
Legumes, such as beans and tofu, are generally considered healthy foods rich in protein, fiber, and various nutrients. However, they also contain oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stones. The amount of oxalate varies among different types of legumes. For instance, soybeans and products derived from them, like tofu, have moderate oxalate levels.
Your current intake of approximately 880 grams of tofu per week, along with daily consumption of soy milk, could potentially increase your oxalate intake. However, it is essential to consider that the overall risk of stone formation is influenced by various factors, including hydration status, calcium intake, and other dietary components.

Vitamin Effervescent Tablets
The vitamin effervescent tablets you are taking contain vitamin C, zinc, sodium, calcium, and magnesium. Among these, vitamin C is noteworthy because excessive intake can lead to increased oxalate production in the body, which may elevate the risk of kidney stones. The recommended daily allowance for vitamin C is around 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women, and while your intake from the effervescent tablets (600 mg) is significantly higher than this, it is crucial to monitor your total vitamin C consumption from all sources.

Calcium, on the other hand, plays a dual role. Adequate calcium intake can help bind oxalates in the gut, reducing their absorption and subsequent risk of stone formation. However, excessive calcium supplementation, particularly in the absence of adequate hydration, can also contribute to stone formation.

Hydration and Kidney Health
One of the most critical factors in preventing kidney stones is maintaining adequate hydration. It is recommended to produce at least 2 liters (about 68 ounces) of urine daily to help dilute the substances that form stones. If you are consuming a high-protein diet, such as one rich in legumes, it is even more crucial to stay well-hydrated to prevent stone formation.

Conclusion
In summary, while your increased intake of legumes and vitamin supplements could potentially influence your risk of kidney stones, the overall effect depends on various factors, including your total dietary composition, hydration status, and individual metabolic responses. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a dietitian who can evaluate your specific dietary habits and health conditions to provide personalized recommendations.

To mitigate the risk of kidney stones, consider the following:
1. Hydration: Aim to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, particularly water, to help dilute urine and reduce stone formation risk.

2. Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, ensuring adequate calcium intake from dietary sources rather than supplements when possible.

3. Monitor Vitamin C Intake: Be cautious with high doses of vitamin C and consider reducing your intake if you notice any adverse effects or if your healthcare provider advises it.

4. Regular Check-ups: Given your history of kidney stones, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your kidney health and adjust your dietary and supplement intake as needed.

By taking these steps, you can help manage your kidney stone risk while addressing your nutritional needs related to lupus.

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