Sameer Sheikh Sameer Sheikh Asked 4 months ago

Does drinking carbonated water cause kidney stones?

I've started drinking a lot of carbonated water instead of sugary drinks, thinking it's a healthier option. But then I heard from someone that it might cause kidney stones. Is this something I should be concerned about?

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10 answers

Pratap Chandra Pratap Chandra Joined Apr 2026 3 months ago
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I asked my urologist at a top hospital about carbonated water when I was recovering from a kidney issue. He said plain carbonated water is generally fine, but dark colas with phosphoric acid are the real problem. You should ask your doctor clearly to be absolutely sure about your specific case.

Ananya Sen Ananya Sen Joined Jan 2026 4 months ago

I actually recently started drinking club soda instead of sweet drinks. I hope it doesn't cause any kidney stones as I am prone to dehydration. Does anyone know if flavored sparkling water is also safe or should I strictly avoid it?

K. R. Pillai K. R. Pillai Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

In my seventy years, I have seen many drink soda and carbonated water without ever getting any stones. The key is balance and drinking plenty of pure water. Don't worry too much about these modern drinks, just don't make them your main source of hydration.

Rashi Kapoor Rashi Kapoor Joined May 2026 4 months ago

I used to drink a lot of sparkling water because I hate flat water. My doctor told me it's totally fine as long as there is no added sugar or high sodium. It is a great way to cut down on cold drinks, so don't stress too much about it.

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Sameer Sheikh Sameer Sheikh Joined Jan 2026 4 months ago

I have been drinking unsweetened carbonated water daily for the past two years to help me quit drinking beer. I get my kidney ultrasound done annually as part of my corporate health check, and my kidneys are perfectly clear.

Meera Nair Meera Nair Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

Yes, plain carbonated water is usually safe, but sweet carbonated sodas can definitely increase stone risk. Just stick to plain water most of the time.

Amit Roy Amit Roy Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

There is no strong scientific evidence linking plain carbonated water to kidney stone formation. However, carbonated soft drinks that contain high amounts of phosphoric acid and fructose can increase risk factors. It is best to discuss your overall fluid intake with a urologist.

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Nikhil Deshmukh Nikhil Deshmukh Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

I just recovered from passing a 4mm kidney stone last month and discussed my diet in detail with my doctor. He said plain soda or sparkling water won't cause stones, but highly sugary carbonated drinks definitely do. I have completely switched to plain water and coconut water now.

Shabnam Ara Shabnam Ara Joined Jan 2026 3 months ago

Plain carbonated water is just water with carbon dioxide gas, so it doesn't directly cause kidney stones. However, many commercial sparkling waters contain added sodium, which can increase calcium in your urine and lead to stones. Always read the nutrition label before buying.

Priyanka Joshi Priyanka Joshi Joined Jan 2026 3 months ago

Plain sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lime is my favorite summer drink! It's actually much better than heavy colas which are bad for your kidneys. Keep yourself hydrated and stay happy!

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