Geeta Rao Geeta Rao Asked 6 months ago

Can taking calcium cause kidney stones?

My doctor suggested I take calcium supplements for my bone health. But my neighbour told me that taking calcium can lead to kidney stones. I'm a bit confused, is this true?

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10 answers

Savitri Devi Savitri Devi Joined Jul 2026 3 months ago
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I have been taking calcium supplements on and off for fifteen years for my bones, and my kidneys are perfectly fine. The key is to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Don't worry, just don't take more than what your doctor wrote.

Rakesh Malhotra Rakesh Malhotra Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Excess calcium can sometimes accumulate if your water intake is low, which might lead to stones. Since I manage my high BP with lifestyle changes, I always get regular kidney function tests done. It is always wise to keep monitoring your health with basic blood work.

Sister Lissy Thomas Sister Lissy Thomas Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Actually, taking calcium supplements on an empty stomach can increase stone risk, whereas taking them with meals is safer. Also, make sure you aren't self-medicating with very high doses. Stick to the daily dose recommended by your healthcare provider and stay hydrated.

Neha Joshi Neha Joshi Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

I was also prescribed calcium recently and I am a bit scared to start it now. Does drinking lemon water daily help prevent these stones? If anyone knows, please tell me.

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Consult a urologist

Harish Rawat Harish Rawat Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Hi! Calcium from food like curd and paneer rarely causes stones; it's usually high-dose synthetic supplements that do. Try to get your calcium from natural sources first, and if you must take tablets, ensure your vitamin D levels are checked too.

Vijay Saxena Vijay Saxena Joined Jan 2026 6 months ago

As someone managing diabetes, I have to be very careful with what I eat and any extra supplements I take. If you have kidney concerns, calcium supplements should only be started after a doctor's recommendation and clear blood tests. Never self-prescribe.

Karan Sen Karan Sen Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Don't stress too much about this. Just talk to your doctor and ask if you actually need the supplements, and keep drinking plenty of water every day.

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Pooja Hegde Pooja Hegde Joined Mar 2026 6 months ago

I panicked so much when my doctor gave me calcium tablets because my uncle had kidney stones. But my doctor explained that normal prescribed doses with enough water are perfectly safe and won't cause stones. It's totally fine, don't worry!

Amrik Singh Amrik Singh Joined Mar 2026 6 months ago

Please be very careful with calcium tablets if you already have back or side pain. I ignored minor symptoms and ended up with a painful 8mm stone that required medical intervention. Do not start any supplement without a proper doctor's prescription.

Amit Shah Amit Shah Joined May 2026 5 months ago

To be practical, unless you have a proven deficiency via a blood test, you probably don't need daily calcium pills anyway. Get your levels tested first. If your doctor prescribes them, take them as directed and don't overdo the dosage.

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