Alkaline water has gained popularity recently due to its potential health benefits. However, it puzzles people whether alkaline water is good for kidneys or is a drop in the ocean of health fads.
Most research on alkaline water suggests its high pH improves kidney function. However, its extreme consumption disrupts the body’s natural pH balance, leading to negative health effects. Therefore, supporting any evidence is limited and inconclusive.
In this article, we will explore the existing evidence and discuss the potential impact of alkaline water on kidney function.
Role of Kidneys in Maintaining Internal Balance
kidneys play an important role in maintaining internal balance, including below:
1. Function of Kidneys in Filtering Waste Products
The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the internal balance of our bodies. One primary function of the kidneys is to filter waste products from the blood. As blood circulates through the kidneys, they selectively remove harmful substances, such as toxins, excess minerals, and metabolic byproducts, which are then excreted through urine. This filtration process is essential for detoxification and maintaining overall health.
2. Regulation of Electrolyte Levels
In addition to waste filtration, the kidneys regulate electrolyte levels. Electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, are crucial for numerous bodily functions, including nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and maintaining proper fluid balance.
The kidneys maintain the optimal concentration of these electrolytes by reabsorbing or excreting them as needed. This delicate balance ensures that the body’s cells function properly and maintain stable internal conditions.
Is Alkaline Water Good for the Kidneys?
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, alkaline water is good for healthy persons and reduces the risk of chronic kidney diseases. Recently, It has gained popularity due to its numerous health benefits, including improved kidney function. However, the efficacy of alkaline water in benefiting kidney health remains a topic of debate within the medical community.
Conversely, if an individual suffers from kidney disease or drinks access to alkaline water, it can increase the kidney workload. It may disturb the functions which are mentioned above.
If you or your family member is suffering from kidney disease, then this guide may be helpful for you. Let’s examine the potential effects of alkaline water on kidney stone formation, kidney transplant patients, and dialysis patients.
Kidney Stone Patients
Kidney stones are solid deposits in the kidneys and can cause severe pain. Various studies suggest that water with a higher pH level may help prevent the formation of kidney stones. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim.
While alkaline water may increase urinary pH temporarily, the long-term impact on kidney stone formation is unclear. Proper hydration by drinking adequate water is generally recommended to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.
Kidney Transplant and Dialysis Patients
For kidney transplant patients, the main concern is the potential impact of alkaline water on immunosuppressive medications. These medications help prevent organ rejection but can interact with certain substances.
However, no substantial evidence suggests that alkaline water poses significant risks or benefits specifically to dialysis and kidney transplant patients.
It is always advisable for transplant patients to consult their healthcare providers before making any significant changes to their diet or fluid intake.
Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water for Healthy Individuals
What does alkaline water do to the kidneys? While the direct impact of alkaline water on kidney health is still controversial, it is believed to help maintain optimal hydration, which is crucial for kidney function.
1. Hydration Support
Alkaline water helps maintain optimal hydration, which is essential for kidney function and waste removal.
2. pH Regulation
Alkaline water may temporarily increase urinary pH, potentially reducing the risk of certain kidney stones.
3. Antioxidant Properties
Some alkaline waters contain antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress, which may benefit kidney health.
Scientific Claims About Alkaline Water and Kidney
Proponents of alkaline water suggest it can alleviate kidney strain and improve their function. The main premise behind this claim is that alkaline water, with its higher pH level, can neutralize acid in the body and reduce the acid load on the kidneys.
Some research suggests that alkaline water may benefit certain kidney conditions. For example, a study published in the Journal of Nephrology found that drinking alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 for one year reduced the progression of chronic kidney disease in a group of patients.
Another study published in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism indicated that alkaline water consumption could help reduce urinary markers of kidney stone formation. The researchers observed that alkaline water with a pH of 9.5 significantly reduced the formation of calcium phosphate stones in rats. However, further research is needed to determine if these findings apply to humans.
In conclusion, the current scientific evidence on the effects of alkaline water on kidney health is limited and inconclusive. It is important to evaluate the limitations and scope of the existing research before drawing definitive conclusions or making significant changes to one’s diet or water consumption. Consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance based on individual health circumstances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while alkaline water has gained popularity for its claimed health benefits, limited scientific evidence supports its direct positive effects on kidney health.
For kidney stone prevention, proper hydration is key, regardless of the pH level of the water consumed. Kidney transplant patients should consult their healthcare providers regarding dietary changes, including alkaline water consumption. Dialysis patients should prioritize fluid balance as guided by their healthcare team. As with any health-related decision, it is advisable to seek personalized medical advice to ensure the best approach for individual circumstances.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Essentia Water Good for Kidneys?
Essentia water is a popular brand of 99% pure ionized water containing essential minerals. This water is not scientifically proven to be taken specifically for kidney disease. However, you can use it for better water tasting and proper hydration.
Is Kangen Water Suitable for the Kidneys?
Scientifically, there is no evidence that Kangen water suits the kidneys. However, Kangen Water is alkaline, which keeps you hydrated and offers antioxidant properties. Hence, for kangen water intake, you must consult your healthcare professional for kidney health advice.
Is Alkaline Water Good for Cats with Kidney Disease?
No, Alkaline water is not good for cats with kidney disease. Cats with kidney disease may experience impaired kidney function and electrolyte imbalances, which can worsen by drinking alkaline water.
As a result, it’s critical to maintain the right pH balance in the cat’s diet, and a renal diet prescribed by a veterinarian is typically advised.
Is Alkaline Water Suitable for Dogs with Kidney Disease?
The alkaline water suitability depends on the type of kidney disease they suffer. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian for proper counseling. Your pet’s diet is specific, including certain minerals and electrolytes restrictions. So, the Alkaline water uptake can imbalance their electrolytes. Therefore, you may need to consult a veterinary doctor for a proper hydration plan and diet.
