lifestyle · for kidney stone prevention
High Water Intake
Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026
How to use
Aim to drink enough water that your urine is pale yellow throughout the day - typically 2.5 to 3.5 litres of fluid daily for most adults. Spread intake evenly rather than drinking large amounts at once. Increase intake in hot weather or after exercise. A useful target is producing at least 2 litres of urine per day, which can be tracked by noting pale urine color by mid-morning.
How it works
Diluting urine lowers the concentration of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid below the threshold at which crystals nucleate and grow into stones.
Where to buy
Plain water is ideal; no purchase needed. Filtered tap water, mineral water, or herbal teas all count toward daily fluid targets.
Typical cost: $0-5/month
Safety notes
Excessive water intake (over 6 L/day) can cause hyponatremia (dangerously low sodium). People with heart failure, kidney disease, or on fluid-restriction orders should not increase intake without medical guidance. High fluid intake alone does not address the underlying metabolic cause of stones and is most effective as part of a broader dietary plan.
Drug & supplement interactions
- Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
- Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
- Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
- Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.
Clinical source
J Nephrol 2015This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.