Alkaline Water and Kidney Stones: What Research Suggests
For many people, simply sipping water with a higher pH does not reliably shift urine chemistry enough to prevent all types of kidney stones from forming. A study published in the Journal of Urology found that increasing the urinary pH with alkaline water by itself did not consistently change the environment needed to halt stone growth across diverse individuals. The takeaway is clear: alkalinized water is not a universal shield against stone formation.
Clinicians aiming to lower the risk for certain stone types often advocate raising urine pH. A common method is potassium citrate tablets, which can help alkalize the urine. Yet adherence can be challenging because the pills are large and require a daily routine. Meanwhile, manufacturers of alkaline water contend that their products can make urine more alkaline by offsetting acidity, but evidence in real patients remains limited.
To explore the potential of alkaline water to prevent stones, researchers examined five different brands of water and other beverages. Normal drinking water sits near a neutral pH around seven and a half, while alkaline options commonly fall in the eight to ten range. The analysis indicated that alkaline water does not meaningfully raise urine pH once the body’s acid production neutralizes the change, maintaining a stable urinary environment. This mirrors the body’s resilient homeostasis rather than a simple pH flip in the urine.
On the other hand, some beverages appear to influence urinary alkalinity more effectively. Orange juice, for example, contains natural components that boost urinary alkalinity beyond what plain alkaline water can achieve, suggesting a greater potential to affect urine chemistry. Baking soda is another option that can raise urinary alkalinity, but it introduces higher sodium intake, a concern for blood pressure and cardiovascular health that requires medical oversight.
Experts emphasize that robust clinical studies in actual patients are needed to determine whether alkaline water has meaningful benefits or risks for stone prevention. Until such evidence becomes available, it remains important to rely on evidence-based strategies and to consult healthcare providers when building a personalized plan to prevent stones.
For those looking to optimize water intake for kidney health, it helps to understand urine chemistry, dietary influences, and overall hydration. Alkaline water may seem attractive, but it is not a guaranteed solution and should be considered as part of a broader, individualized management plan guided by medical professionals. This approach includes considering dietary choices, fluid balance, and other lifestyle factors that impact stone risk.