Where the myth about tap water causing kidney stones comes from

The belief that tap water causes kidney stones It arises above all from a misunderstanding linked to the so-called "hard water", that is, rich in Calcium and magnesium.

The idea is this: if the water contains calcium, then calcium accumulates in the Reindeer and makes the calculations. This is flawed reasoning, like that of those who still believe that tap water isn't well-controlled, when in fact, in Europe, it's actually safer than any brand of bottled mineral water.

Some important points:

• Drinking adequate amounts of water is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of kidney stones, regardless of whether it is tap water or mineral water.
• Calcium ingested through food and water is normally regulated by the body. In fact, a diet too low in calcium can increase the risk of certain types of stones.
• The formation of stones depends on many factors: genetic predisposition, poor hydration, excess salt, certain medical conditions, excess oxalates in the diet, etc.
• What is generically called “limescale” present in tap water is nothing other than dissolved ions, especially calcium and magnesium, together with carbonates, sulphates, chlorides and many other minerals.
• Research does not show that tap water that meets drinking standards causes stones in the general population.

So where does the “balla” come from?

1. Limescale residues in kettles, taps or pots: seeing white deposits suggests that the same thing is happening in the kidneys.
2. Confusion between limestone and stonesHousehold limescale is composed primarily of precipitated mineral salts; kidney stones are much more complex biological structures.
3. Marketing of some bottled mineral waters, which in the past has sometimes emphasized low fixed residue as if it were necessarily better for the kidneys.
4. Personal experiences: those who develop calculations can attribute them to local water without there being a demonstrated relationship.

There are only a few exceptions to this fact: people with certain metabolic diseases or who have already had specific types of stones can receive personalized advice from their nephrologist or urologist on the composition of their drinking water.