Does Sparkling Water Cause Kidney Pain? Separating Fact from Fizz

January 9, 2026 •

3 min read

Despite common online fears, plain sparkling water is generally not a cause of kidney pain for healthy individuals and can actually aid hydration just as effectively as still water. This misconception often arises from confusion with other beverages or symptoms of underlying kidney issues.

Quick Summary

Unsweetened, plain sparkling water does not cause kidney pain or kidney stones. Concerns often mistake harmful additives in sugary sodas for carbonation. Staying hydrated is key for kidney health, and sparkling water effectively contributes to daily fluid intake. Potential issues depend on individual health, not the carbonation itself.

Key Points

No Direct Link: Plain, unsweetened sparkling water does not cause kidney pain in healthy individuals.
Hydration is Key: Both sparkling and still water are equally effective for hydration, which is crucial for kidney health.
Sodas are Different: The negative effects linked to 'carbonated' drinks are actually caused by the high sugar, artificial sweeteners, and phosphoric acid in sodas, not the carbonation itself.
Check Mineral Content: Some sparkling mineral waters contain sodium, so individuals with hypertension or kidney issues should check the label and choose low-sodium options.
Underlying Causes: If you feel kidney pain, it is likely due to an unrelated issue like kidney stones, infection, or dehydration, not sparkling water.
Safe Alternative: For those looking to cut back on sugary sodas, plain sparkling water is a healthy, calorie-free substitute.

The myth that sparkling water is bad for your kidneys has been widely debunked by health experts. The bubbles in carbonated water come from dissolved carbon dioxide, which forms a weak carbonic acid. The human body, specifically the kidneys and lungs, efficiently removes this excess carbon dioxide to maintain a stable blood pH level. Therefore, for most healthy people, the carbonation itself poses no threat to kidney function or overall health.

Carbonation vs. Additives: The Real Culprit

It's crucial to distinguish between plain sparkling water and sugary, flavored sodas. Studies linking carbonated beverages to kidney disease specifically target colas and other sweetened drinks containing harmful additives, not the carbonation itself.

Sugary Sodas and Artificial Sweeteners

Added Sugars: High-fructose corn syrup and other added sugars in sodas are linked to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure—all major risk factors for chronic kidney disease.
Phosphoric Acid: Dark-colored colas often contain phosphoric acid, which can disrupt calcium levels and increase the risk of kidney stones, especially with excessive consumption.
Artificial Sweeteners: Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners in diet sodas might alter gut bacteria and negatively affect kidney filtration over time.

The Role of Minerals in Sparkling Water

Sparkling mineral water, sourced from natural springs, contains varying amounts of naturally occurring minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium.

Calcium and Magnesium: These minerals are generally beneficial and do not cause kidney stones in healthy individuals. A proper balance can even inhibit certain types of stone formation.
Sodium: Some club sodas and mineral waters have added sodium. Excessive sodium intake is a risk factor for kidney stones and high blood pressure, so it's wise to check labels, especially for those with existing kidney issues or hypertension.

What Really Causes Kidney Pain?

If you experience pain in your flank or back after drinking sparkling water, it's highly unlikely the water itself is the cause. The symptoms are more likely a coincidence, revealing an underlying issue.

Common causes of actual kidney pain include:

Kidney Stones: These can cause sharp, severe pain that comes in waves and may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves through the urinary tract.
Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): A bacterial infection can lead to fever, chills, fatigue, and pain in the back or side.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): An untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys, causing pain and other symptoms.
Dehydration: Ironically, chronic dehydration is a primary risk factor for kidney stones, not the opposite.
Polycystic Kidney Disease: This inherited condition causes fluid-filled cysts to grow on the kidneys, which can cause pain as they expand.

Sparkling Water vs. Still Water: A Comparison for Kidney Health


Feature	Plain Sparkling Water	Sugary Soda (Cola)	Plain Still Water
Carbonation	Yes (CO2)	Yes (CO2 + phosphoric acid)	No
Hydration	Just as hydrating	Can lead to dehydration	Excellent for hydration
Kidney Stones	Not a direct cause; hydration helps prevent	Contains phosphoric acid and sugar, increasing risk	Cornerstone of prevention
Additives	Generally none (check label)	High fructose corn syrup, phosphoric acid, etc.	None
Kidney Strain	None for healthy individuals	Significant due to sugar and acid	None

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Bubbly Water

The evidence is clear: for the vast majority of healthy people, drinking plain, unsweetened sparkling water does not cause kidney pain or damage. It is an equally hydrating alternative to still water and a far better choice than sugary sodas. The key to maintaining kidney health is adequate overall hydration, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive consumption of high-sodium or high-sugar drinks. If you experience persistent kidney pain, the cause is likely unrelated to your sparkling water and warrants a consultation with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions.

For more information on kidney-friendly hydration, you can visit the National Kidney Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the carbon dioxide in sparkling water does not harm your kidneys. Your body naturally regulates blood pH by expelling excess CO2 through the lungs and kidneys, keeping them perfectly safe.

Plain sparkling water does not cause kidney stones. Staying hydrated with any kind of water, including sparkling, is actually a key preventative measure. Risk factors for kidney stones include dehydration, high salt intake, and specific medical conditions.

Discomfort like bloating or a feeling of fullness from carbonation is usually a digestive tract issue, not a kidney problem. For those with sensitive stomachs or conditions like IBS, carbonation can sometimes exacerbate symptoms.

Individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult their doctor. While plain, unsweetened sparkling water is often acceptable in moderation, some mineral waters contain high levels of sodium or other minerals that may need to be restricted.

The main difference is the additives. Plain sparkling water is just water and carbon dioxide. Sodas contain high levels of sugar, phosphoric acid, and other chemicals that strain the kidneys and increase the risk of chronic kidney disease.

Yes, sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water. The carbonation does not interfere with your body's ability to absorb water and hydrate effectively.

True kidney pain is often a dull ache in the side, back, or abdomen, but can also be sharp and severe, especially with kidney stones. Other signs include fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in urination frequency and color.