Vitamin C is necessary for various functions, including bolstering immunity, protecting skin and brain health, and aiding in the fast healing of wounds. Additionally, it helps in absorbing the much-needed iron into the blood. Certain groups of people require this crucial vitamin more than others, including pregnant women, individuals recovering from surgery, and burn victims. However, how much Vitamin C is necessary for a person to function properly? And can an overdose of this essential nutrient lead to kidney stones?What Are Kidney Stones?In simple terms, kidney stones are caused by waste that accumulates and clumps together in the kidneys, leading to pain and difficulty urinating. Kidney stones can be treated with increased fluid intake and pain management for small stones, while larger ones may require procedures like shock wave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy. Dietary changes can help prevent future stones after treatment.Can Vitamin C Cause Kidney Stones?According to experts, high doses of Vitamin C can increase your risk of the most common type of kidney stones, calcium oxalate. Calcium oxalate stones can be caused by a number of factors, including:- Diet: Certain fruits, vegetables, nuts, and chocolate are high in oxalate. Low dietary calcium intake can also increase the risk of kidney stones.- Medications: Some drugs, like those used to treat gout, can increase the risk of kidney stones.- Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic disorders can elevate the concentration of oxalate in the urine.High doses of Vitamin C are partly metabolized into oxalate, which can then form crystals and lead to kidney stones. The vitamin C you get from food is unlikely to be high enough to cause kidney stones; however, vitamin C supplements (such as ascorbic acid tablets) could increase the risk.Regardless, Vitamin C plays a crucial part in maintaining a well-balanced diet. Here are the common food sources from where you can get them. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are well-known for their high Vitamin C content. Other excellent sources include strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, and guava. Among vegetables, bell peppers (especially red and yellow), broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and tomatoes are rich in this essential nutrient. Leafy greens such as spinach and kale also provide significant amounts of Vitamin C. Additionally, some fortified foods and supplements can help meet daily requirements.