Doctor: 5 seemingly good supplements can actually harm your kidneys

Some seemingly harmless supplements can be surprisingly harmful to the kidneys, especially when taken in high doses.

Many people mistakenly believe that natural supplements are harmless, but the truth is that supplements are not always safe, especially for the kidneys.

A common misconception is that dietary supplements do not harm the kidneys, says HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, MD, a clinical advisor for the healthcare company BuzzRx. But that is not the case, so it is best to consult your doctor before starting any dietary supplement, according to the health news site Best Life.

If you experience symptoms of kidney damage, it is important to give your doctor a list of all medications and supplements you are taking. Your doctor may be able to determine the cause.

Here is a list of popular supplements that can harm your kidneys.

People with a history of kidney problems including kidney stones should avoid taking high doses of turmeric - Photo: AI

Turmeric

Turmeric is often used for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, Angela Dori, a pharmacist in the US, advises people with a history of kidney problems, including kidney stones, to avoid high doses of turmeric. Turmeric contains oxalates, which can bind to minerals and increase the risk of kidney stones.

Vitamin C

Dr. Dori also advises avoiding “mega doses” of vitamin C. Although the recommended daily intake is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men, according to the Mayo Clinic, many people supplement with doses of 1,000 mg, far exceeding the recommended amount.

As Dr. Dori explains, excess vitamin C is excreted as oxalate, which can form kidney stones.

According to a 2023 study, high doses of vitamin C have been shown to cause hyperoxaluria and complications such as acute kidney injury.

Calcium

Dr. Dori advises avoiding high doses of calcium, especially if taken with vitamin C. Calcium is excreted in the urine, and most kidney stones are composed of calcium and oxalate.

However, Dori notes that if prescribed by a doctor, taking magnesium and vitamin B6 can help offset the harmful effects of calcium supplements.

Potassium

Harvard Medical School (USA) advises against taking daily potassium supplements unless prescribed by a doctor. Potassium can cause kidney damage.

People with chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis, must monitor their potassium intake to prevent a buildup of potassium in the blood, Dr. Ngo-Hamilton explains. Severe hyperkalemia can cause heart rhythm problems and even death. Taking herbal supplements containing potassium can further increase the risk of hyperkalemia.

Research shows that consuming licorice in large quantities can lead to kidney damage - Photo: AI

Using licorice in large amounts causes kidney damage

Research shows that consuming licorice, especially in large amounts or over long periods of time, can potentially lead to kidney damage.

According to a 2019 study, licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can increase blood pressure and affect kidney health. The National Center for Health Care Excellence (NCCIC) recommends that people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney disease should not use licorice.

Finally, it is necessary to consult a doctor about which supplements should and should not be used to ensure health safety, according to Best Life.

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