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Hydration Meets Regulation: Insights into Bicarbonate Mineral Water and Acid-Base Balance
Katharina Mansouri1, Thierry Hanh2, Andreas Hahn1
1Institute of Food and One Health, Leibniz University Hanover, 30159 Hanover, Germany.
Nutrients
|July 30, 2025
Summary
Bicarbonate-rich mineral water can help reduce acid load from diets like the Western diet. This mineral water improves urinary and blood parameters, potentially lowering kidney stone risk and supporting bone health.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Renal Physiology
- Metabolic Health
Background:
- Dietary choices significantly impact acid-base balance.
- The Western diet often leads to excess acidity.
- Bicarbonate-rich mineral water is explored as a dietary intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review scientific findings on bicarbonate-rich mineral water (bicarbonate > 1300 mg/L, low/medium PRAL).
- To assess its effects on urinary and blood parameters.
- To evaluate its potential for health promotion and disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of recent scientific studies.
- Focus on studies with specific bicarbonate levels and PRAL values.
- Synthesis of data on urinary and blood markers.
Main Results:
- Increased urine pH and reduced net acid excretion, indicating lower acid load.
- Decreased excretion of calcium, oxalates, magnesium, and citrates.
- Stabilized blood pH and increased bicarbonate levels, enhancing buffering capacity.
- Associated with reduced risk of calcium oxalate stones and improved kidney health.
- Reduced bone resorption markers, supporting bone health.
Conclusions:
- Bicarbonate-rich mineral water positively influences urinary and blood parameters.
- It may mitigate kidney stone risk and enhance bone health.
- Further rigorous research is needed for long-term recommendations.
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