Apple Cider Vinegar and Kidney Stones: Evidence, Uses, and Safety
Explore the science, benefits, risks, and effectiveness of apple cider vinegar as a potential natural remedy for kidney stones.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Kidney Stones: What You Need To Know
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is sometimes recommended as a home remedy for kidney stones, a condition that affects millions each year. While ACV is touted for its potential to help dissolve or prevent stones, the science is mixed and more research is needed. This comprehensive guide explores what kidney stones are, how ACV is theorized to work, supporting (and lacking) evidence, safety concerns, practical usage, and other natural preventive strategies.
Understanding Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are solid mineral and salt deposits that form within the kidneys or urinary tract. They develop when minerals (like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid) build up and crystallize in the urine, especially if fluid intake is low or urine concentration is high. Kidney stones can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball and are often very painful as they move through the urinary tract.
- Symptoms may include intense side/back pain, blood in urine, frequent or painful urination, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
- Risk factors include dehydration, diet high in salt or protein, obesity, digestive diseases, family history, and previous kidney stones.
- Common types: Calcium oxalate stones (most prevalent), struvite, uric acid, and cystine stones.
Why Some People Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Kidney Stones
Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various health issues, including kidney stones. Advocates claim it can help dissolve stones and prevent their formation. The purported benefits are mainly based on:
- Acetic acid content: ACV is rich in acetic acid, believed to break down and soften kidney stones, making them easier to pass in urine.
- Alkalizing effect: Some believe ACV helps alkalize the blood and urine, lowering the risk of new stone formation and supporting kidney health.
- Stimulation of digestion: ACV is thought to promote hydrochloric acid production in the stomach, potentially improving digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Pain and inflammation control: Anecdotal reports suggest ACV may help reduce pain and inflammation linked to kidney stones.
- Body detoxification: Supporters argue that ACV helps the body eliminate toxins and excess minerals contributing to kidney stones.
It is important to note that while these theories are common, scientific validation is limited.
Scientific Evidence: What Does the Research Say?
Most claims regarding the effect of apple cider vinegar on kidney stones are based on anecdotal evidence or traditional usage. However, some emerging research addresses certain components and potential mechanisms.
Limited Human Studies
- A 2017 population-based study found that regular dietary intake of fermented vinegar was associated with a lower risk of developing kidney stones. This aligns with observations in other dietary habits, such as increased tea or legume consumption .
- Further animal research shows that ACV may have a protective effect against kidney oxidative injury and enhances antioxidant enzymes, potentially lowering risk factors for stone formation.
- An additional clinical study indicated that daily vinegar consumption increased urine citrate and reduced urine calcium in stone-forming individuals, both of which decrease stone recurrence .
The Role of Potassium
ACV contains trace amounts of potassium, which has demonstrated protective effects against kidney stones in several studies. Higher dietary potassium is associated with reduced stone formation; however, the exact impact of ACV’s small potassium content requires further research .
What others are reading
How Acetic Acid May Help
- Increases urine citrate: High urine citrate can help prevent the formation of calcium stones by inhibiting crystal growth.
- Reduces urine calcium: Lower calcium in urine means fewer building blocks for calcium-based stones.
- Potential epigenetic effect: Animal data suggest that acetic acid may alter gene expression in kidney cells via increased acetylation of histone proteins and the promotion of protective microRNAs, which translates to lower risk of calcium oxalate stone formation .
While these findings are promising, solid clinical trials in humans are lacking, and most evidence comes from animal or pilot studies. Much of the widespread support for ACV relies on its historical use and personal testimonials rather than robust science.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar an Effective Kidney Stone Dissolver?
The theory is that acetic acid helps break down or soften stones, but direct proof is sparse. According to supporters:
- Mixing 2 tablespoons ACV with water may help pass stones or ease their passage.
- ACV is often used with other natural remedies (like lemon juice) for an additive effect.
Medical professionals emphasize that while ACV may support stone passage in some cases, it cannot replace evidence-based medical treatment—especially for larger stones or those causing severe symptoms.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Kidney Stones
Suggested ACV Drink Recipes
- Basic recipe: Mix 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered ACV in 6–8 ounces of water. Drink once or twice daily. Some prefer adding lemon juice or honey for flavor.
- Timing: Many recommend drinking before meals to potentially aid digestion as well.
- Maximum intake: Limit total daily intake of ACV to no more than 8 ounces diluted in water to avoid harmful effects.
These recipes are based on tradition and personal use rather than clinical trial evidence. If considering ACV, speak with a healthcare provider first, especially if you have any existing conditions.
Other Home Remedies Sometimes Used Alongside ACV
- Lemon juice: High in citrate, which can help dissolve small stones or prevent new ones from forming.
- Basil juice: Said to offer antispasmodic and pain-relieving properties due the acetic acid content.
- Increased water intake: Essential for both prevention and helping small stones to pass.
- Herbal teas and juices: Celery, cucumber, and watermelon are sometimes recommended due to their diuretic effects (helping to flush kidneys).
These home remedies may provide some relief, but none are a replacement for medical evaluation and treatment in cases of moderate to severe kidney stones.
Prevention: Can ACV Help Keep New Kidney Stones from Forming?
Some observational research and animal studies suggest that vinegar (and by extension, ACV) may reduce the risk of recurrence of calcium oxalate stones by:
- Decreasing urine calcium levels
- Increasing urine citrate levels
- Promoting antioxidant activity in the kidneys
Other important prevention strategies include:
- Hydration: Drink sufficient fluids throughout the day to keep urine pale yellow and avoid concentration.
- Diet: Limit salt, excess animal protein, and foods high in oxalate (like spinach, nuts, and chocolate).
- Weight management: Obesity is a risk factor for stone formation; maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce risk.
- Calcium balance: It’s important to get enough dietary calcium (not supplements), as too little or too much calcium may increase stone risk.
Potential Risks and Safety Concerns of Apple Cider Vinegar
| Risk/Concern | Description |
|---|---|
| Tooth enamel erosion | Acidic nature of ACV can erode dental enamel, increasing sensitivity and risk of cavities. |
| Throat irritation | Undiluted or excess ACV can cause sore throat or worsen reflux symptoms. |
| Digestive side effects | May cause nausea, stomach upset, bloating, or worsen gastroparesis in sensitive individuals. |
| Potassium depletion | High or prolonged use may reduce potassium levels, increasing risk for weakness, cramps, and (rarely) heart disturbances. |
| Drug interactions | ACV may interact with diuretics, insulin, and certain heart medications. People with diabetes or kidney disease must consult a doctor before use. |
- Always dilute ACV before consuming.
- If using for kidney stones, limit intake and monitor for adverse reactions.
- Seek medical attention for severe pain, fever, vomiting, or signs of stone-induced blockage or infection.
Who Should Avoid Apple Cider Vinegar?
- Individuals with a history of esophageal reflux, ulcers, or digestive sensitivities.
- Those taking medications that interact with potassium or affect acid-base balance.
- People with advanced kidney disease should avoid ACV unless under strict medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About ACV and Kidney Stones
Does apple cider vinegar really dissolve kidney stones?
Most supporting evidence for ACV comes from animal studies and small-scale research. While ACV’s acetic acid may aid passing small stones, there’s no definitive proof it dissolves larger or all types of kidney stones directly.
What is the best way to take ACV for kidney stones?
The common method is to mix 1–2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered ACV in 6–8 ounces of water, taken once or twice daily. Always dilute and avoid exceeding 8 ounces ACV per day.
Can I combine lemon juice and ACV to help with kidney stones?
Yes, both are safe (in moderation) and may have complementary effects. Lemon juice is high in citrate, which also helps prevent stone formation. Consult a doctor before combining if you have pre-existing conditions.
Are there side effects of drinking apple cider vinegar for kidney stones?
Potential side effects include dental enamel erosion, reflux, stomach upset, low potassium, and drug interactions. Always use diluted and do not exceed recommended doses.
Can ACV prevent future kidney stones?
Some evidence suggests regular vinegar consumption may reduce recurrence of calcium stones, possibly by increasing urinary citrate and reducing calcium. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect in different populations.
When to See a Doctor
- Persistent or severe pain, especially with fever, chills, or blood in urine.
- Inability to pass urine or presence of vomiting preventing fluid intake.
- Recurrent kidney stones or a family history of kidney disease.
- If you are considering ACV as a remedy and have diabetes, kidney or heart disease, consult your physician first.
Key Takeaways
- Apple cider vinegar is an unproven but popular home remedy for kidney stones, with some supportive evidence for supporting stone passage and prevention based mostly on animal research and limited human data.
- Scientific support is limited and those considering ACV should do so cautiously, as more robust, large-scale clinical studies are needed.
- Always consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones, especially for stones that are large, persistent, or associated with severe symptoms.
- Regardless of natural remedies, increasing fluid intake and making dietary changes remain the most established prevention strategies.
References
- https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-health/acv-for-kidney-stones
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31202812/
- https://www.medicinenet.com/what_dissolves_kidney_stones_fast/article.htm
- https://clevelandurology.net/posts/kidney-health/self-care-for-kidney-stones/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319418-2
- https://urologyclinic.com/conditions/kidney-stones/faqs/
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