Private MD News

Vitamin D supplements may not cause kidney stones

Category: Vitamin D Deficiency-Diagnosis and Treatment

Vitamin D supplements have been linked to kidney stones in the past, but a new study suggests otherwise. The study was conducted by the University of California, San Diego Health Sciences and published in the American Journal of Public Health. For those who have a vitamin D deficiency diagnosed from a lab test online, supplements may be a good source of the nutrient.

Vitamin D and kidney stones
The results of the study showed that there were no discernable links between vitamin D supplements and the development of kidney stones. Instead, age, gender and weight were more closely tied to the development of these deposits.

"Our results may lessen concerns by individuals about taking vitamin D supplements, as no link was shown between such supplementation and an increased risk for kidney stones," said study leader Cedric Garland, M.D.

The study followed 2,000 adults of various ages for 19 months. During the time of the study, only 13 of the participants developed kidney stones, according to lab tests. Adequate vitamin D levels have previously been shown to provide many positive effects for the body.

"Mounting evidence indicates that a vitamin D serum level in the therapeutic range of 40 to 50 [nanograms per milliliter] is needed for substantial reduction in risk of many diseases, including breast and colorectal cancer," said Garland.

Vitamin D deficiency
Those who are lacking in this essential nutrient may experience feelings of fatigue. In children, a lack of vitamin D has been linked to late walking and a preference for sitting, according to Medscape. Adults often experience joint and muscle pain in moderate cases.

In more severe cases, levels of vitamin D that are less than adequate may cause bowing of the legs in developing children. Adults may experience severe bone pain as the deficiency continues. Patients with osteoporosis or a malabsorption syndrome are often tested for this condition.

Treatment for a vitamin D deficiency has often been a combination of supplements and exposure to sunlight, a natural source of the vitamin. Those who think they may have this condition may want to consider a blood test. Results from a test online are as accurate as those from a visit to a doctor's office or clinic.