Uric acid stones invariably require a pH below 6 to form, whereas cystine stones double in solubility as the urine becomes more alkaline,” researchers wrote in the study.

Kidney stones, a common and painful condition, are influenced significantly by diet. Certain foods like spinach, nuts, and red meat can increase the risk due to high oxalate or uric acid content.

Alkaline water, marketed for its high pH and purported health benefits like cancer prevention, has become a booming industry.