Taking supplements can be one great way to keep your health on track, especially if you struggle to fit all the nutrients your body needs to thrive into your daily diet. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that supplements don’t come without risks. In fact, many can come with dangerous side effects if you’re not careful. That could include damage to your kidneys and bladder.
To shed some light on a few potentially dangerous supplements that could take a toll in these areas, we spoke to doctors Conor O’Flynn and Michael Lahey. They warned against high doses of vitamin C and caffeine supplements. Learn more about the specific risks of each below.
1. High-Doses of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an undeniably vital nutrient. It helps support your body's immune system by protecting against oxidative stress. However, too much of it can harm your bladder. "Taking too much of it, especially more than 2000 milligrams a day, will cause inflammation of the bladder lining and frequent urge to urinate," Dr. Lahey warns.
Too much vitamin C can also be damaging to your kidneys. "While vitamin C is essential for overall health, excessively high doses in supplement form can increase the risk of kidney stones, particularly in individuals with a history of kidney stones," Dr. O'Flynn warns.
To avoid these issues, Dr. Lahey recommends sticking to the prescribed daily intake. It's also always best to get your nutrients straight from the foods you eat, so opt for Vitamin C-rich foods like strawberries, bell peppers, and oranges. That way, you can meet your body's needs without putting your body at risk.
2. Caffeine-Based Supplements
Numerous energy boosters and weight loss supplements include caffeine. Regrettably, although this can provide a burst of energy, "these can irritate the bladder and make it secrete more often," Dr. Lahey warns. adding that they can also increase the urgency to urinate.
This is particularly worrisome for those with existing bladder issues or heightened sensitivity. Rather than turning to caffeine pills or supplements, he suggests opting for natural options such as green or chamomile tea in moderate amounts.
These alternatives provide a milder energy lift without putting too much strain on your bladder. Besides steering clear of caffeine supplements, it's wise to limit the consumption of caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee, or sodas. Overall, keeping an eye on your intake is essential.
All in all, monitoring your intake is crucial!
