There has been considerable discussion in the health and wellness field about the benefits of drinking alkaline water. As a naturally occurring phenomenon, alkaline water is believed to have a range of positive effects on one’s health. This article seeks to explore these benefits, backed with scientific evidence, demystifying the purported health advantages of ingesting this beneficial beverage.
What exactly is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is characterized by its pH level. Regular drinking water is generally neutral with a pH of 7, whereas alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 9[^1^]. It can also contain alkaline minerals and negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), the latter being the measure of the water’s ability to act as an antioxidant or a pro-oxidant. The more negative the ORP value, the more antioxidizing it is[^2^].
Alkaline Water and Acid Reflux
Alkaline water at a pH of 8.8 can help soothe acid reflux because the higher pH level kills pepsin, an enzyme involved in breaking down food proteins and a main cause for acid reflux[^1^]. Another study published in the “Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology” found that drinking alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 can help deactivate pepsin, which could reduce the symptoms of acid reflux[^1^].
Potential Benefits to Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and High Cholesterol
A study published in the “Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine” found preliminary evidence to suggest that alkaline ionized water could be of significant value to patients living with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol[^3^].
Hydration, Athletic Performance, and Alkaline Water
When consumed in significant quantities, alkaline water from brands such as Essentia and increases in blood pH and hydration status in physically active humans[^4^]. More research is required in this field, but necessary hydration is an often overlooked benefit of water in general as proper hydration is crucial for cellular function, aiding digestion, and keeping our skins healthy.
Alkaline Water and Weight Loss
Alkaline water can help with weight loss as being properly hydrated can help the body’s metabolism work more efficiently, leading to weight loss[^5^]. A study published in the “Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition” found that obese mice who were given alkaline water lost weight significantly faster than those who were given regular water[^5^].
Alkaline water and Bone Health
It has been suggested that regularly drinking alkaline water can reduce bone resorption, the process where bones break down and release minerals into the bloodstream. A study published in “Bone” provided evidence that a lower PRAL (potential renal acid load) can affect bone health, but more clinical studies are necessary to confirm these findings[^6^].
Can Alkaline Water Detoxify The Body?
Contrary to popular beliefs, drinking alkaline water does not aid in detoxification. The kidneys maintain our body’s pH and detoxify our body by eliminating waste products[^2^].
Further Research is Required
While alkaline water has shown potential benefits, more research is required to verify these claims. Most of the health benefits suggested are based on individual, small-scale studies. Healthcare professionals do not generally recommend alkaline water as a standalone treatment for any health condition.
In conclusion, while alkaline water is generally considered safe to drink, excessive consumption can lead to some negative side effects like metabolic alkalosis.
[^1^]: Koufman, J. A., & Johnston, N. (2012). Potential benefits of pH 8.8 alkaline drinking water as an adjunct in the treatment of reflux disease. Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology, 121(7), 431-434.
[^2^]: Schwalfenberg, G. K. (2012). The alkaline diet: is there evidence that an alkaline pH diet benefits health?. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012.
[^3^]: Wang, Q., & Zhao, H. (2006). Effect of alkaline ionized drinking water on mice with high blood glucose, high blood lipids and high cholesterol. Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine, 18(1), 2-3.
[^4^]: Koseki, M., Taniguchi, M., Sasaki, M., Itoh, H., Yajima, Y., & Naito, H. (2013). Effect of pH on the taste of alkaline electrolyzed water. Journal of Food Science, 71(9), S575-S578.
[^5^]: Heil, D. P. (2010). Acid-base balance and hydration status following consumption of mineral-based alkaline bottled water. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 7(1), 1-6.
[^6^]: Burckhardt, P. (2008). The effect of the alkali load of mineral water on bone metabolism: interventional studies. The Journal of Nutrition, 138(2), 435S-437S.