What is alkaline water?
Alkaline water is water that has been treated to have a higher pH level than regular drinking water, typically between 8 and 9 on the pH scale, which ranges from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline) with 7 being neutral. This increased alkalinity is achieved through the addition of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, or through processes like electrolysis using ionizers that separate acidic and alkaline components of water.
Is alkaline water good for you? Potential benefits and health claims
Health impacts of alkaline water are somewhat controversial. Some advocates claim significant health benefits, but many health professionals say that there isn’t enough research to support health claims. Still, proponents and some early research studies claim the following potential benefits:
- Acid Neutralization: It is believed by some to help neutralize acid in the body, potentially benefiting conditions like acid reflux.
- Bone Health: Some research indicates that it might improve bone density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
- Hydration: A study indicated that alkaline water could enhance hydration levels after physical activity
It’s important to note that more research and additional human studies are needed to back these claims. There are many other unbacked claims about alkaline water that require far more scientific research, including that alkaline water may have:
- Anti-aging properties
- Colon-cleansing properties
- Immune system support
- Weight loss assistance properties
- Cancer resistance properties
Alkalinity and the Body’s pH Balance
Our body maintains a delicate balance of acidity and alkalinity, particularly in the blood, with a tightly regulated pH of around 7.4. While food and drink can impact pH levels in areas like the stomach or urine, the body works to maintain an overall balance regardless of what we consume.
Our blood pH is tightly regulated by the kidneys and lungs, making it highly unlikely that dietary changes, including drinking alkaline water, can significantly alter blood acidity.
Is alkaline water safe to drink?
Alkaline water is considered safe to drink. There is currently no evidence to suggest any significant side effects of drinking alkaline water. While it has a different PH level than regular water, your body will regulate the stomach’s PH levels to achieve a state of homeostasis.
What is the alkalinity of tap water?
While alkalinity and PH level are related when discussing drinking water, scientifically they are different measurements. Alkalinity is a measure of the presence of bicarbonate, carbonate or hydroxide constituents. Most tap water in the United States has an alkalinity between 20 and 200 mg/L of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This range falls within the “moderate alkalinity” classification. Specifically:
- Low Alkalinity: < 20 mg CaCO3/L
- Moderate Alkalinity: 20 to 160 mg CaCO3/L
- High Alkalinity: > 160 mg CaCO3/L
Most commonly, people are interested in pH levels of their drinking water, not the specific calcium carbonate measurements. Tap water in the United States typically falls between 6.5 and 8.5, while alkaline water has been treated (naturally or artificially) to have a pH level of between 8 and 9.
How FloWater Adds Alkalinity
As part of FloWater’s 7x Advanced Purification system in our Refill Stations, we have a dedicated alkaline filter to add a proprietary blend of ten trace minerals to the water, raising the pH level of the water coming from your tap. This is just one of the steps we take to offer truly advanced hydration.
Conclusion
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular water, which can offer certain potential benefits, like better hydration, antioxidant properties, and acidity-neutralizing effects. However, our body naturally regulates its pH, so the benefits may vary from person to person, and consumers should be cautious about claims suggesting it is a miracle cure for various ailments. Staying informed, experimenting in moderation, and listening to your body are the keys to discovering what works best for your hydration and health needs.
Whether you stick with regular water or go for alkaline, the goal is clear: stay hydrated and support your body’s overall well-being.
