What Is Alkaline Water – Unlock the Benefits Today

In the world of hydration and wellness, alkaline water has become a buzzword, but what exactly is it? At its core, alkaline water is water with a higher pH level, typically above 7 on the pH scale. This shift in pH is believed to offer a range of potential health benefits that have piqued the curiosity of many.

Numerous studies have explored the advantages of alkaline water consumption. From improved hydration due to smaller water cluster sizes to potential antioxidant properties that help combat oxidative stress, the benefits are compelling.

Join us as we delve into the science behind alkaline water, explore its potential impacts on health, and discuss practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine. Whether you’re a newcomer to the concept or looking to deepen your understanding, this article will be your comprehensive guide.

What Is Alkaline Water

Alkaline water, also known as high-pH water, is water with a pH level greater than 7 on the pH scale. The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, with 7 being neutral, below 7 acidic and above 7 alkaline.

Alkaline water typically has a pH level between 8 and 9, although it can vary depending on the source or how it’s produced.

Characteristics Of Alkaline Water

Alkaline water is water that has a pH level higher than 7 on the pH scale, typically ranging between 8 and 9. The characteristics of alkaline water include:

1. Higher pH Level

Higher pH Level: The most defining characteristic of alkaline water is its elevated pH level, which is above the neutral pH of 7. This means it is less acidic than regular tap water, which often has a pH of around 7.

2. Mineral Content

Alkaline water often contains minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which contribute to its alkalinity. These minerals are typically obtained from natural sources or added through ionization processes.

3. Ionization

Alkaline water can be produced through various methods, including ionization, adding alkaline minerals, or using natural mineral springs.

4. Taste and Mouthfeel

Alkaline water often has a slight spring water or mineral-like taste, which some people find appealing. It may also feel smoother or silkier in the mouth compared to regular water.

5. Hydration Potential

Proponents of alkaline water suggest that it is more easily absorbed by the body due to its smaller molecular clusters. This property is believed to enhance hydration.

Alkaline Water Benefits

The potential alkaline water benefits have been a subject of research, though it’s important to note that scientific consensus on some of these benefits is still evolving. Here are some of the benefits of alkaline water supported by research:

1. Enhanced Hydration

Alkaline water is believed to enhance hydration primarily due to its smaller molecular clusters. The concept is that these smaller clusters of water molecules can be more easily absorbed by the body, leading to improved hydration.

The theory behind this is that regular water molecules form larger clusters, which might make it slightly more challenging for the body to absorb and utilize the water effectively.

 Alkaline water, on the other hand, undergoes processes that break down water clusters into smaller sizes, potentially facilitating quicker absorption by cells and tissues.

2. Potential Antioxidant Properties

Alkaline water is believed to have antioxidant properties, which means it may help reduce oxidative stress in the body by neutralizing free radicals.

3. Alleviation Of Acid Reflux

Alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 has been investigated for its potential to deactivate pepsin, an enzyme associated with acid reflux. This deactivation could help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.

4. Potential Bone Health Benefits

Some proponents suggest that alkaline water, which is rich in alkaline minerals like calcium and magnesium, may support bone health by providing these essential minerals.

5. Digestive Health

Alkaline water is sometimes promoted for its potential to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort.

6. Reduced Blood Pressure

Some research has explored the potential of alkaline water to reduce blood pressure, possibly due to its mineral content.

The Best Alkaline Water

Here is a list of the top 5 alkaline water brands on Amazon, along with a short description and mention of their benefits:

1. Essentia Ionized Alkaline Water

Essentia is a well-known brand of alkaline water with a pH level of around 9.5. It is created through a proprietary ionization process.

Essentia Water is often appreciated for its smooth taste and potential for improved hydration due to its higher pH. Some users also claim enhanced energy levels after regular consumption.

2. Alkaline88 Purified Ionized Water With Himalayan Minerals

Alkaline88 is another popular brand of alkaline water. It is made with purified water and Himalayan minerals, which give it a unique taste and texture.

Alkaline88 water is said to have health benefits, including improved hydration, increased bone density, reduced risk of kidney stones, and improved athletic performance.

3. Flow Alkaline Spring Water

Flow is appreciated for its smooth and refreshing taste, along with its alkaline pH. Some users enjoy it as a healthier alternative to traditional bottled water.

4. Icelandic Glacial Water

Icelandic Glacial Water is a naturally alkaline water that is sourced from a spring in Iceland. It is said to have a number of health benefits, including improved hydration, increased bone density, reduced risk of kidney stones, and improved athletic performance.

5. Smartwater

Smartwater Alkaline is produced by vapor distillation and infused with electrolytes to achieve a slightly alkaline pH level.

Smartwater Alkaline offers the crisp, clean taste of purified water with the added benefit of electrolytes for hydration. It is a good choice for those seeking a balance between hydration and alkalinity.

READ ALSO: What Is The Difference Between Drinking Water And Purified Water

Alkaline Water Side Effects

Alkaline water is generally safe for most people to drink. However, there are a few potential side effects that are important to be aware of.

1. Digestive problems: Drinking too much alkaline water can cause digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is because alkaline water can interfere with the stomach’s ability to produce acid, which is needed to digest food properly.

2. Altered blood pH: Alkaline water has a higher pH than regular water, so drinking too much alkaline water could potentially alter the body’s natural pH balance. However, this is unlikely to occur, as the body has a number of mechanisms in place to maintain a stable pH level.

3. Skin irritation: Alkaline water can irritate the skin, especially if the skin is already dry or sensitive. This is because alkaline water can strip the skin of its natural oils and protective barrier.

4. Mineral depletion: Alkaline water can deplete the body of essential minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. This is because alkaline water can bind to these minerals and prevent them from being absorbed by the body.

5. Altering Stomach pH: Alkaline water is less acidic than regular tap water, and excessive consumption may temporarily raise the pH of your stomach. This could interfere with the digestive process, as the stomach needs an acidic environment to break down food effectively.

6. Electrolyte Imbalance: Alkaline water may contain high levels of alkaline minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. While these minerals are generally beneficial, excessive intake can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance, potentially leading to muscle cramps or irregular heartbeats.

7. Gastrointestinal Upset: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, nausea, or diarrhea, when consuming alkaline water. This can occur if the sudden change in pH disrupts the digestive system’s normal function.

8. Interactions with Medications: If you are taking medications, particularly those affected by changes in stomach pH (like certain antibiotics), drinking alkaline water may alter their absorption or effectiveness. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about medication interactions.

Other potential side effects: Some people have reported other potential side effects of drinking alkaline water, such as headaches, fatigue, and muscle cramps. However, more research is needed to confirm whether or not these side effects are actually caused by alkaline water.

Alkaline Water Vs. Regular Water

Characteristic	Alkaline Water	Regular Water
pH Level	Typically 8-9 (alkaline)	Generally around 7 (neutral)
Mineral Content	Contains alkaline minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium	Contains minimal minerals, can vary by source
Taste	May have a slightly bitter or mineral-like taste	Typically has a neutral taste
Hydration Potential	Believed to be more easily absorbed due to smaller water clusters	Absorption rate may vary, but generally effective for hydration
Potential Antioxidants	Claimed to have antioxidant properties	Generally lacks significant antioxidant properties
Impact on Stomach pH	May temporarily raise stomach pH, potentially affecting digestion	Does not significantly alter stomach pH
Electrolyte Balance	Excessive intake can disrupt electrolyte balance	Less likely to disrupt electrolyte balance
Gastrointestinal Upset	May cause bloating, nausea, or diarrhea in some individuals	Rarely causes gastrointestinal upset
Calcium Buildup	Can leave mineral deposits in appliances	Less likely to cause calcium buildup
Cost	Water ionizers and specialty brands can be expensive	Cost-effective and widely available
Scientific Consensus	Research on benefits and risks is ongoing, no definitive consensus	Well-studied, generally recognized as safe
Medication Interactions	Potential to affect medication absorption	Minimal impact on medication absorption

How To Make Alkaline Water

There are a few different ways to make alkaline water at home. One way is to add alkaline minerals to regular water. This can be done by using a water filter that contains alkaline minerals, or by adding alkaline mineral drops to regular water.

Another way to make alkaline water is to use an alkaline water ionizer. Alkaline water ionizers use electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen ions. The hydrogen ions are then removed from the water, which raises the pH of the water and makes it alkaline.

Here are the specific instructions on how to make alkaline water using each method:

Adding Alkaline Minerals To Regular Water

1. Fill a pitcher or water bottle with regular water.
2. Add alkaline minerals to the water, following the instructions on the product label.
3. Stir or shake the water to dissolve the alkaline minerals.
4. Let the water sit for some minutes before drinking.

Using An Alkaline Water Ionizer

1. Fill the ionizer with regular water.
2. Turn on the ionizer and select the desired pH level.
3. Wait for the ionizer to finish processing the water.
4. Drain the alkaline water from the ionizer into a pitcher or water bottle.

Other Methods

There are a few other methods of making alkaline water at home, but they are not as common or as well-studied as the two methods described above. These methods include:

• Adding lemon juice: Adding lemon juice to water can lower the pH level of the water slightly. However, lemon juice is acidic, so it is not clear whether or not this method actually makes the water alkaline.
• Using baking soda: Adding baking soda to water can increase its pH level. However, baking soda is high in sodium, so this method is not recommended for people who are watching their sodium intake.

Essentia Alkaline Water

Essentia is a brand of alkaline water that is known for its high pH level and its proprietary ionization process. Essentia water has a pH level of 9.5 or higher, which is significantly higher than the pH level of regular water.

Essentia water is made using a proprietary ionization process that removes acidic ions from regular water and adds alkaline minerals such as calcium and magnesium. This process also gives Essentia water a negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), which means that it is an antioxidant.

Essentia water is marketed as a healthy alternative to regular water. It is claimed to have a number of health benefits, including:

• Improved hydration.
• Increased bone density.
• Reduced risk of kidney stones,
• Improved athletic performance,
• Reduced risk of cancer.

However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits. Additionally, Essentia water is more expensive than regular water.

If I Drink Alkaline Water For A Month What Will Happen

Drinking alkaline water for a month may lead to various effects and experiences, but the specific outcomes can vary from person to person. Here are some potential effects and considerations:

• Improved hydration: Alkaline water is more easily absorbed by the body than regular water, so it may help you to stay hydrated more effectively.
• Increased bone density: Alkaline water may help to increase bone density by reducing the amount of calcium that is excreted in the urine.
• Reduced risk of kidney stones: Alkaline water may help to reduce the risk of kidney stones by increasing the amount of urine that is produced and by making the urine less acidic.
• Improved athletic performance: Alkaline water may help to improve athletic performance by reducing muscle fatigue and increasing endurance.

However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm all of the potential health benefits of alkaline water. Additionally, alkaline water is not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.

If you have any underlying health conditions, it is important to talk to your doctor before drinking alkaline water.

Here are things to keep in mind if you are drinking alkaline water:

• Alkaline water is not a magic bullet. It is important to have a healthy diet and lifestyle in order to achieve optimal health.
• Alkaline water can be more expensive than regular water.
• There is some concern that alkaline water may deplete the body of essential minerals.

If you are considering drinking alkaline water, talk to your doctor to see if it is right for you.

How To Make Alkaline Water With Lime

You can make alkaline water with lime by adding lime juice to purified water. Here are the steps to create alkaline water with lime:

Ingredients

• 1 lime, squeezed.
• 1 glass of purified water

Instructions

1. Start by squeezing the juice from one lime into a glass. Use a citrus juicer or simply hand-squeeze the lime to extract the juice.
2. Fill the glass with purified water. Make sure the water is clean and free from contaminants.
3. Stir the water and lime juice mixture thoroughly to ensure the lime juice is well-distributed.
4. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes. During this time, the lime juice will infuse the water, potentially increasing its alkalinity.
5. After a few minutes, your alkaline water with lime is ready to drink.

It’s important to note that while lime juice is acidic by nature, it has an alkalizing effect on the body due to its mineral content, particularly its high potassium content.

This can slightly raise the pH of the water, making it more alkaline. However, the pH level may not be as high as what you’d find in some commercially marketed alkaline waters.

Benefits Of Alkaline Water With Lime

Alkaline water with lime may offer a number of potential health benefits, including:

• Improved hydration
• Increased bone density
• Reduced risk of kidney stones
• Improved athletic performance.
• Reduced risk of cancer

However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm all of these potential health benefits. Additionally, alkaline water with lime is not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Side Effects Of Alkaline Water With Lime

Alkaline water with lime is generally safe for most people to drink. However, it is important to note that limes are acidic, so drinking too much alkaline water with lime could potentially irritate your stomach or esophagus. Additionally, some people may be allergic to limes.

If you have any underlying health conditions, it is important to talk to your doctor before drinking alkaline water with lime.

Alkaline Water Price

The price of alkaline water varies depending on the brand, the type of container, and the size of the container.

For example, a 16.9 fluid ounce bottle of Essentia Ionized Alkaline Water costs around $1.50, while a 12-pack of 500mL bottles of Alkaline88 Purified Ionized Water with Himalayan Minerals costs around $47.27.

In general, alkaline water is more expensive than regular water. This is because alkaline water requires additional processing to increase its pH level. Additionally, some brands of alkaline water are marketed as health products, which can also drive up the price.

If you are considering drinking alkaline water, it is important to weigh the potential health benefits against the cost. You may also want to consider making your own alkaline water at home using one of the methods described above.

Is Alkaline Water Good For Kidneys

Alkaline water may be good for kidneys in some ways, but more research is needed.

Some studies suggest that alkaline water may help to reduce the risk of kidney stones. This is because alkaline water can increase the amount of urine that is produced and can make the urine less acidic. This can help to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Other studies suggest that alkaline water may help to improve kidney function in people with chronic kidney disease. This is because alkaline water can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the kidneys.

However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits. Additionally, alkaline water is not a substitute for medical treatment for kidney disease.

If you have kidney disease, it is important to talk to your doctor before drinking alkaline water. They can help you determine if alkaline water is right for you and can monitor your kidney function to make sure that alkaline water is not causing any problems.

Where To Buy Alkaline Water

You can buy alkaline water in a variety of places, including:

• Grocery stores: Many grocery stores now sell alkaline water, typically in the bottled water section.
• Health food stores: Health food stores often sell a wider variety of alkaline water brands and types than grocery stores.
• Online retailers: You can also buy alkaline water online from a variety of retailers, such as Amazon.
• Alkaline water ionizers: If you want to make your own alkaline water at home, you can purchase an alkaline water ionizer. Alkaline water ionizers use electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen ions. The hydrogen ions are then removed from the water, which raises the pH of the water and makes it alkaline.

When choosing an alkaline water, it is important to read the label carefully to make sure that it is the right pH level for you. You should also make sure that the alkaline water contains the minerals that you are looking for.

Here are some tips for buying alkaline water:

• Compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal.
• Look for alkaline water that is made with filtered water.
• Choose an alkaline water with a pH level that is right for you.
• Make sure that the alkaline water contains the minerals that you are looking for.
• Avoid alkaline water that contains artificial flavors or sweeteners.

If you are unsure which alkaline water to buy, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you to choose the right alkaline water for your individual needs.

How To Make Alkaline Water Without Baking Soda

There are a few ways to make alkaline water without baking soda. Here are two popular methods:

1. Adding Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is acidic, but it contains minerals that produce alkaline byproducts when ingested and metabolized. So when you drink lemon water, your body breaks down the lemon and produces alkaline byproducts that can help to raise the pH level of your blood and urine.

To make alkaline water with lemon juice, simply squeeze the juice of a lemon into a glass of water and stir or shake to mix. You can also add lemon slices to a pitcher of water and let it sit for several hours or overnight before drinking.

2. Using An Alkaline Water Ionizer

An alkaline water ionizer is a device that uses electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen ions. The hydrogen ions are then removed from the water, which raises the pH of the water and makes it alkaline.

Alkaline water ionizers can be expensive, but they are a convenient way to make alkaline water at home. To use an alkaline water ionizer, simply fill the reservoir with water and select the desired pH level. The ionizer will then process the water and produce alkaline water.

How To Make Alkaline Water For Weight Loss

Alkaline water is often promoted as a component of weight loss strategies, but it’s essential to understand that its direct role in weight loss is not well-established in scientific research.

Nevertheless, if you are interested in incorporating alkaline water into your weight loss routine, here’s a simple method to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 lemon
• 1 cucumber
• Mint leaves
• 1 glass of purified water

Instructions

1. Cut the lemon into slices.
2. Slice the cucumber.
3. Fill a glass with purified water.
4. Add the lemon slices and cucumber slices to the water.
5. Add mint leaves.
6. Stir the mixture gently.
7. Allow the water to infuse for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This infusion may enhance the water’s alkalinity and flavor.
8. Your alkaline water with lemon and cucumber is now ready to drink.

The lemon, mint leaves and cucumber add flavor to the water and may slightly increase its alkalinity. Additionally, they provide hydration, vitamins, and minerals, which can be beneficial for your overall well-being.

It’s important to note that weight loss primarily depends on factors such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, portion control, and overall calorie intake. While staying well-hydrated with infused alkaline water can be part of a healthy lifestyle, it is not a magic solution for weight loss.

If you are looking to lose weight, it’s advisable to focus on established weight loss principles and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance and create a comprehensive weight loss plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Alkaline Water FAQs

What Is Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water is water with a pH level higher than 7 on the pH scale, typically ranging between 8 and 9, making it less acidic than regular tap water.

How Is Alkaline Water Made?

Alkaline water can be made through various methods, including adding alkaline minerals, using water ionizers, or incorporating natural ingredients like lemon cucumber or lime.

What Are The Potential Benefits Of Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water is believed to offer benefits such as improved hydration, potential antioxidant properties, and reducing acid reflux symptoms, although scientific consensus is still evolving.

Is Alkaline Water Safe To Drink?

Alkaline water is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, excessive intake can lead to potential side effects.

Can Alkaline Water Help With Weight Loss?

Alkaline water is not a direct weight loss solution, but it can be part of a healthy lifestyle by promoting hydration and potentially supporting overall well-being.

What Is The Difference Between Alkaline Water And Regular Water?

The primary difference is the pH level. Alkaline water has a higher pH (typically 8-9) than regular water (pH 7), which is neutral.

How Can I Test The pH Of Water?

You can test the pH of water using pH test strips or a pH meter, which are readily available in stores or online.

Can Alkaline Water Be Used For Cooking?

Yes, alkaline water can be used in cooking just like regular water. It may alter the taste of some dishes slightly.

Are There Any Side Effects Of Drinking Alkaline Water?

Potential side effects may include altered stomach pH, electrolyte imbalance, gastrointestinal upset, and reduced stomach acid production.

Should I Consult A Healthcare Professional Before Drinking Alkaline Water?

If you have specific health concerns or are making significant changes to your diet, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

The Bottom Line

While alkaline water has gained popularity for its potential health benefits and unique taste, its true impact varies from person to person. It’s important to approach it as a complementary part of a balanced lifestyle, which includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration.

Before making any significant dietary changes, including switching to alkaline water, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.