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Can taking certain forms of potassium, such as potassium citrate, reduce my chances of getting kidney stones? I've read a study that says it can, but it's unclear how much I should take.

Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D. cooperman.png

Last updated Aug. 08, 2017 | Initially Posted Oct. 29, 2014

Answer:

Yes, there is good evidence that potassium citrate can inhibit kidney stone formation in a large percentage of people with recurrent kidney stones. In addition, potassium phosphate can lower levels of excess calcium in urine and also reduce the risk of calcium kidney stones. 

Interestingly, it is not potassium itself which makes these treatments work but the citrate and phosphate portions of the compounds, and there are many other potential sources of citrate, such as citrus fruits. Get more information about the evidence for these compounds in reducing kidney stones, including doses used in clinical studies and how this compares to amounts found in supplements, in the Potassium Supplements Review >>

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Alan19884
May 13, 2020

Was diagnosed with a kidney stone, which I subsequently had removed. On pure caprice, I started drinking Crystal Lite Lemonade. After reading this article, I'm glad to see that my hunch was reinforced. THANK you. Will definitely give Swanson's potassium citrate a try as well.

Barbara18227
August 21, 2019

Thanks for the yes on citrus fruits. We eat a large salad six days a week with oranges. What other available fruit should we consider to increase citrus intake?

ConsumerLab.com
August 23, 2019

Hi Barbara - Please see this CL Answer about additional sources of citrate https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/can-lemon-juice-or-lemonade-reduce-my-chances-of-getting-kidney-stones/stones_lemon/.

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