We all know the importance of vitamin C, but there are special concerns for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and dialysis patients for avoiding excessive amounts of the mineral. New data also suggests vitamin C can help improve responsiveness to erythropoetin in anemic patients, and can lower mortality risk by 16 percent.
 
The current recommendations of vitamin C supplementation for hemodialysis patients are 75 - 90 mg per day to replace the loss of the vitamin during dialysis. CKD patients are recommended to avoid intake greater than 100 - 200 mg per day. Too much vitamin C can cause oxalosis, which is the accumulation of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and can damage the organs and tissues of the body.
 
Before taking any vitamin supplement, it is imperative you speak with your physician or renal dietitian about the proper dosage for your body and stage of kidney disease.

This article originally appeared in the July 2009 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.