Nephrology

Apple Cider Vinegar and Kidney Stones: Myth or Miracle Remedy?

admin Apr 23, 2025

The kidneys filter about half a cup of blood every minute, removing toxins and excess water, which are then excreted as urine. The urine travels from the kidneys to the bladder through two narrow tubes called ureters. Together, the kidneys, ureters and bladder make up the urinary tract.

Kidney stones are made from the build-up and collection of hard crystalline salts and minerals (such as oxalate, calcium, phosphate and uric acid) in your kidneys or ureter. When these minerals build up in urine, kidney stones develop. Kidney stones may vary in size and are one of the most painful conditions.

Symptoms of kidney stones

Pain in the back, belly or side
Urgency in urination
Blood in the urine
Cloudy or smelly urine
Nausea and chills
Fever
Painful urination
Kidney stones are fairly common, especially if you have had them in the past or if they tend to run in your family.

How does ACV work?

The acetic acid in ACV is believed to help soften and break down kidney stones, making them smaller and easier to pass through your urine.
ACV is thought to balance the acidity in your blood and urine while boosting stomach acid, which prevents new kidney stones from forming and supports better digestion.
ACV might also help ease the pain and inflammation caused by kidney stones. It is believed to help flush out toxins and excess minerals that can contribute to stone formation. Some say that ACV has a detoxifying effect on the kidneys and liver.

What does the research say?

Most of the evidence on the use of ACV for kidney stones is based on personal accounts rather than scientific research. While there are no conclusive studies directly linking ACV to the treatment of kidney stones, it still shows potential as a natural remedy.
Apple cider vinegar contains small amounts of potassium, a mineral that may help prevent kidney stone formation. A 2016 study found that higher potassium intake was strongly linked to a reduced risk of developing kidney stones.
It is important not to overconsume ACV, as it can lead to potassium loss. More research is needed to explore how the potassium in ACV may directly help prevent kidney stones.
A 2017 study examined the impact of various dietary habits on kidney stones and found that fermented vinegar may help prevent their formation. It was significantly associated with a reduced risk of developing kidney stones. Similar effects were observed with tea and legumes. However, more research is needed to better understand the direct role of vinegar in preventing kidney stones.
A 2014 animal study found that ACV may help protect against kidney oxidative damage by boosting antioxidant enzymes. It was also shown to lower cholesterol levels, which could be beneficial in preventing kidney stones. Since higher body weight is linked to an increased risk of kidney stone formation and being overweight often leads to higher cholesterol, ACV’s effects may offer additional protection.

Conclusion

Looking after your health is essential when you have kidney stones. If you are not feeling any better, or if your symptoms get worse, it is a good idea to reach out to your healthcare provider. Sometimes, kidney stones need medical treatment to avoid complications. Your healthcare provider can help you decide whether it is okay to take a wait-and-see approach while trying natural remedies like apple cider vinegar. Lastly, it is important to take care of your health, especially if you have had kidney stones before or if they run in your family.

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