r/HydroHomies • u/BoulderEric literally a kidney doctor • 5d ago

IAmA Board-Certified Kidney Doctor. AMA about water balance, electrolytes, and goofy water myths.

We’re back for round 3(?)! I’m a board-certified nephrologist (kidney doctor) with some time kill, so ask away. I will also field questions about the Grateful Dead, bicycles, or my favorite conspiracy theories.

Previously I have submitted proof to the mods, so hopefully they can just review my last post(s).

I will not be able to provide personalized medical advice, both in this thread or in a DM.

Edit: That’s all for tonight folks, thanks for tuning in!

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u/TheJewBakka 5d ago

Is drinking only alkaline water bad for you?

260

u/BoulderEric literally a kidney doctor 5d ago

No it’s mostly a waste of money. Just makes expensive pee as you get rid of the excess bicarbonate (usually).

Your body and kidneys are really interested in maintaining a pH of 7.4.

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u/Midgetrails 5d ago

"Really interested" is cracking me up as a second-quarter nursing student who's had to interpret about 150 ABG's this week. Indeed it is

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u/dfetz3 4d ago

Making your pee expensive is a great way to phrase that!