Alkaline Water and Kidney Health: Separating Fact from Fiction
Published on September 9, 2024
Key Takeaway
While alkaline water may have some potential benefits for kidney health, its effects are limited and more research is needed to fully understand its impact on kidney function and disease progression.
Introduction
In recent years, alkaline water has gained popularity as a potential health elixir, with proponents claiming various benefits, including improved kidney function. But what does the science say about alkaline water and its effects on our kidneys? This article delves into the current research to separate fact from fiction and provide a balanced view of alkaline water's impact on kidney health.
Understanding Alkaline Water
Alkaline water typically has a pH level above 7, making it less acidic than regular drinking water. It often contains alkaline minerals and is sometimes produced through a process called electrolysis. While some believe that consuming alkaline water can help balance the body's pH levels, it's important to note that our bodies, particularly our kidneys and lungs, are highly efficient at maintaining a strict pH balance.

Potential Benefits for Kidney Health
Some studies suggest that alkaline water may have potential benefits for kidney health:
- Reduced risk of kidney stones: Research by Saenko et al. (2019) indicates that alkaline mineral waters can lead to urine alkalization and increased urinary citrate levels, which may help inhibit kidney stone formation.
- Slowing CKD progression: A meta-analysis by Shi et al. (2022) found that oral alkali therapy might potentially reduce the risk of kidney failure events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- Improved acid-base balance: Łoniewski et al. (2014) suggest that systemic alkalization might attenuate acid-induced kidney injury in CKD patients.
Limitations and Considerations
Despite these potential benefits, it's crucial to consider the limitations of current research:
- Limited evidence: Many studies on alkaline water and kidney health have been conducted on animals or in small human trials, necessitating more extensive research.
- Minimal impact on blood pH: As noted by Goldman (2018), our kidneys and lungs tightly regulate blood pH within a narrow range of 7.35-7.45, regardless of what we consume.
- Potential risks: Excessive consumption of alkaline water could lead to metabolic alkalosis, a condition that can be particularly dangerous for individuals with kidney disease.
The Role of Alkaline Water in Kidney Disease Management
For individuals with chronic kidney disease, the potential benefits of alkaline water should be weighed against risks:
- Consult a healthcare provider: Patients with kidney disease should always consult their nephrologist before making significant changes to their diet or fluid intake.
- Monitoring electrolyte balance: Rizvi et al. (2024) reported a case of severe metabolic alkalosis and hypokalemia associated with excessive alkaline water consumption, highlighting the importance of moderation.
- Alternative alkali therapies: Łoniewski et al. (2014) suggest that oral sodium bicarbonate might be a more effective and well-studied option for managing acidosis in CKD patients.

Conclusion
While alkaline water shows some promise in supporting kidney health, the evidence is still limited and mixed. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining our body's acid-base balance, and for most healthy individuals, they do this job effectively without the need for alkaline water. For those with kidney disease, any changes in fluid intake or diet should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional. As research continues, we may gain a clearer understanding of alkaline water's role in kidney health. In the meantime, focusing on overall hydration and a balanced diet remains the most reliable approach to supporting kidney function.