Sparkling water and chronic kidney disease (2024)

A question I get asked a lot in my work is whether sparkling water can fit in with your renal diet.

Sparkling water is made by adding carbon dioxide under pressure and it comes in many different varieties including mineral water, tonic water and soda water. Carbonation is the process that makes the water effervescent or fizzy. You can buy bottles of fizzy water at your local supermarket or you can make your own using things like soda stream.

Fizzy waters may be enhanced with minerals like sodium (salt) and potassium. Other carbonated drinks may contain phosphate additives. Check out my comparison table for some of the mineral and sparkling waters available in Australian supermarkets.

Note: the recommended target for sodium is 2000mg per day

Cola beverages contain phosphoric acid have been associated with urinary changes and can increase the risk of kidney stones. They are high in phosphate and this form of phosphate is almost 100% absorbed by our bodies.

So what’s the bottom line?

Plain tap water is the best option for our kidneys. A glass of occasional sparkling water isn’t going to be detrimental to your health or kidneys, it’s all about how much you have. Try and cut down on cola beverages for kidney and bone health. If you want information on dental health and sparkling waters, see your dentist for more advice.

Kirilee is a specialist dietitian with experience in renal disease. She sees clients on the North Shore and Northern Beaches of Sydney. If you would like more help navigating fluid requirements in kidney disease please get in touch to achieve your nutrition and lifestyle goals.

References

Davita. Diet and Nutrition: Food IQ for People with Kidney Disease [internet]. USA: Davita; 2018. Available from: https://www.davita.com/kidney-disease/diet-and-nutrition

Saldana, TM, Basso, O, Darden, R. & Sandler, DP. Carbonated Beverages and Chronic Kidney Disease. Epidemiology. 2007 July ; 18(4): 501–506.

Renal Diet Diary Ap