13 Benefits Of Alkaline Water And How To Prepare It At Home
Uncover the perks of this drink and get your body healthy from within.
Ariana is a Registered Dietitian with 17 years of experience, specializing in functional medicine and sports nutrition in the Cleveland, Ohio area. She holds a bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition sciences from Ohio University and went on to complete her dietetic internship at The Cleveland Clinic.
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More people are swearing by the benefits of alkaline water than ever before. This water has a slightly higher pH compared to regular drinking water. Many claims associate this water with a slower aging process and cancer prevention. But how true are these claims? Are there any other benefits alkaline water can offer? Learn more about alkaline water here.
Know Your Ingredient: Alkaline WaterWhat Is It?
It is a water with a higher pH level than tap water, typically between 7.5 and 9.5.
What are Its Benefits?
It may neutralize the acid in the body, improve digestion, boost metabolism, support immune function, and improve skin health.
Who Can Use It?
Anyone can use alkaline water.
How Often?
It is recommended to have 2-3 liters of alkaline water per day.
Caution
Those with kidney disease should avoid it. Excessive consumption may cause dry and itchy skin or an upset stomach.
In This Article
What Is Alkaline Water? Is It Good For You?
The health benefits of alkaline water are attributed to its relatively higher pH. When compared to regular tap water, alkaline water may stimulate blood flow and counteract acid reflux. Some proponents assert that it may also help individuals with high blood pressure or diabetes.
Normal drinking water has a pH of 7, which is neutral. Alkaline water can have a pH of 8 or 9. And talking about its goodness, let’s take a look at some studies.
One 2012 study revealed that drinking alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 could deactivate pepsini A digestive enzyme secreted by peptic cells in your stomach that may cause abdominal issues, diarrhea, and acid reflux. , which is one of the culprits behind acid reflux (1). Another study found that alkaline water could benefit patients with high blood pressure or diabetes (2). Another recent study showed how alkaline water could improve blood flow (3).
TriviaAlkaline water contains electrolytes like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium – all of which might offer certain benefits.
What Are The Benefits Of Alkaline Water?
Since it is more alkaline than normal water, it can counter the excess acidity in our body. Alkaline water might also aid in the treatment of diabetes and cancer and boost bone health as well. Bathing in alkaline water might have beneficial effects on skin health.
1. Might Aid Diabetes Treatment
One Korean study conducted on rats states that alkaline water can reduce blood glucose levels (4). It may also treat high cholesterol, often associated with diabetes.
Another study states that alkaline water might improve blood viscosity in diabetes patients, which, in turn, can enhance their overall health and immune system (5).
Other sources also claim how alkaline water can help lower blood sugar levels.
2. Can Boost Bone Health
Having elevated acid levels can weaken the bones over time, increasing the risk of fractures. Since alkaline water can reduce acid levels, it might help prevent this (6).
Some studies found that alkalinity, as a whole (and not alkaline water alone), could benefit bone health. The study looked at the overall diet of the population and concluded that a more alkaline diet could protect the bones (7).
Subjects who consumed alkaline water were found to experience less bone breakdown and a significant reduction in bone loss through urine. However, there is less research on alkaline water being good for arthritis or gout.
3. Might Regulate Blood Pressure
Some studies suggest that drinking alkaline water might have positive effects on blood pressure. This may have to do with the minerals in the water. But we need more studies to come to a conclusion. Until then, we recommend you take your doctor’s advice.
4. Can Aid Weight Loss
In one animal study, rats that consumed alkaline water were found to have lower body weights in the end. In fact, the rat with the lowest body weight was the one exposed to the highest pH value (the most alkaline) (8).
Other studies also state that alkaline water supplementation can exert positive effects on the body weight of the individual in longevity (9). One reason for this, as certain experts say, is enhanced metabolism. .
5. Might Aid Cancer Treatment
Some sources say that cancer cells thrive in acidic environments – and since alkaline water can neutralize acidity, it might help in cancer treatment. Some experts recommend following an alkaline diet, which includes alkaline water.
A few studies have also found that an alkaline environment can make certain chemotherapy drugs more effective and less harmful (10). Other sources say that an alkaline diet can help reduce inflammation, which is one of the major causes of cancer (11).
6. Might Treat Acid Reflux
Alkaline water might neutralize stomach acid and relieve the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. It can have a buffering effect against hydrochloric acid, the stomach acid that aids digestion, and the excess of which can cause acid reflux.
However, according to doctors, more research is needed before we begin to use alkaline water as an effective treatment for acid reflux and related ailments like GERD.
7. Can Be Good During Pregnancy
Sources suggest that pregnant women consuming alkaline water can experience smooth delivery and increased lactationi A hormone-stimulated process through which milk is produced and secreted through the mammary glands after pregnancy. . There are also reduced cases of jaundice.
Another study suggests that taking alkaline water has substantial biological effects on postnatal growth (12). This might have to do with the mineralization in the water. There is not a lot of research on alkaline water yet – it is ongoing.
8. Aids Detoxification
Though there are no studies that directly state the benefits of alkaline water in aiding detoxification, one study speaks of the importance of an alkaline environment for the same. The study states that the adjustment of tissue alkalinity can lead to more effective excretion of toxins from the body (13).
9. Might Treat Dry Eyes
Though we don’t have substantial research, some sources say that alkaline water (especially when applied to dry eyes) can help treat the condition. Though the water may not harm the eyes, there is no concrete evidence that says it would be helpful either. Hence, consult your doctor for more information.
10. Might Treat Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by severe musculoskeletal paini Acute or chronic pain that affects muscles, bones, ligaments and nerves and is caused by severe injury, fracture, or poor posture. and fatigue. Anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking alkaline water can reduce pain and improve energy levels. It can also make the muscles feel well lubricated.
But, as we said, it’s just anecdotal research. Consult a doctor for more information.
11. Can Help Treat Ovarian Cysts
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking alkaline water can dissolve the cysts and treat the condition. Another study suggests that alkaline water can improve the bodily imbalances caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and, as a result, even improve the fertility of the patients (14).
12. Might Help Treat Skin Diseases
Drinking alkaline water might aid the treatment of skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. It can also help with acne. Even bathing with the water (that might be an expensive affair, by the way) can nourish the skin and offer anti-aging benefits.
But there is very little evidence that suggests this. Using alkaline water for this purpose would cause no harm, though.
13. Might Boost Hair Growth
There is no concrete research. But just like normal water, alkaline water can boost blood circulation – which, in turn, can enhance hair health and promote growth.
In addition, it may help improve your sleep quality and energy levels. Stuart Patrick, a vlogger, shared his experience of drinking alkaline water for two weeks in his video. He said, “I would say I did feel more energy after drinking. My sleep quality has been noticeably better (i).”
These are the purported (and some researched) benefits of alkaline water. But worry not – you don’t have to always purchase it. There are simple ways you can prepare alkaline water right at home.
How To Prepare Alkaline Water At Home
Firstly, you must understand the pH levels of your water. There is a way to test it. Get a pH kit (that comes with pH strips and a color chart). Dip a strip in the water that you want to alkalize, let it sit for a moment, and then compare it against the color chart. Water above a pH of 7 is basic, and below 7 is acidic. You ideally want it to be anywhere between 7 and 9.
There are three ways you can prepare alkaline water at home.
- Using Baking Soda
Add 1/8 tablespoon of baking soda to 8 oz. of water. The soda has a high alkaline content. And when mixed with water, it increases its alkaline properties. But ensure you don’t use baking soda if you are on a low-sodium diet – as it is high in sodium.
- Using Lemons
Take 64 oz. of water. Slice one lemon into 8 wedges and place them in the water – don’t squeeze them. Keep the water covered for about 8 to 12 hours at room temperature. You can also add a tablespoon of pink Himalayan sea salt if you want. Lemons are anionic, and when you drink lemon water, your body reacts with their anionic properties and makes the water alkaline as your body digests it.
- Using pH Drops
You can get a pH bottle from the nearest pharmacy or health food store (you can get it online too). Follow the instructions as to how many drops you can add to water. The drops contain alkaline minerals that can alkalize your water.
Alright. But where do you get it?
Where To Buy Alkaline Water
You can get your alkaline water from any grocery or health food store. Or you can even buy it online. But what’s the big deal with alkaline water? And most importantly, is the alkaline water that you get in the market really natural?
Learn more in the section below.
Is Your Alkaline Water Natural Or Artificial?
Naturally alkaline water occurs when it passes over rocks and picks minerals that make it alkaline. This usually happens in natural springs.
But most people consume alkaline water that has been through electrolysis, which uses an ionizer to increase the pH of the water. However, there have been mixed reactions amongst doctors and scientists with respect to the consumption of artificially alkalized water.
Talking in exact terms, the naturally alkaline water is simply called alkaline water. But the artificial alkaline water is called alkaline ionized water.
Let us also talk about alkaline diet here. The purpose of alkaline water is to correct or reverse the excessively acidic state we have put our bodies into (because of unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits). An alkaline diet serves the same purpose. It consists more of fresh fruits and vegetables that come loaded with nutrients (even supplements can help – just consult your nutritionist once).
Quick TipNow, we get to the most important question.
Is It Safe?
Is the alkaline water you buy from the market safe?
To put it clearly, the issue most health experts have with alkaline water is not safety, but the health claims. There is a dearth of research on many of the health claims made about alkaline water, and how it can possibly treat just about any health ailment. In reality, it may not.
The concern with artificial alkaline water is it might be demineralized during the process of alkalizationi Adding substances or agents which lower the acidity of a solution and bring the pH to 7 or above. , which could be bad news in the long run (15).
Substantial research says your body is already built to provide the required balance (16). Alkaline water might just be a marketing hype. But hey, if you know someone who has genuinely benefited from alkaline water, you might as well listen to them (after talking to an expert, obviously).
Try to get to the facts. Don’t simply go by what your friends say or what the trend is. If you have any concerns about consuming alkaline water, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional first. They can assess your health status and provide personalized advice.
Keep reading to correct some common misconceptions about alkaline water.
Myths About Alkaline Water
While alkaline water may have some proven health potential, it’s not a magical cure-all elixir. Here are some myths that you should be wary of:
- Hydrates Better: Hydration is about the amount of water content you consume and not the type of water.
- Improves Energy Levels: Alkaline water may quench your thirst but does not specifically boost energy levels.
- Improves Digestive Functions: Alkaline water does not offer any added benefits for digestion, as it gets neutralized by acidic gastric juices.
- Has Anti-Aging Benefits: Alkaline water keeps you hydrated like regular water and may contribute to a youthful appearance. But it has no special anti-aging potential.
- Prevents Illness: Claims about alkaline water possessing antioxidants that prevent cell damage are not backed by science.
Always consult a doctor before you choose alkaline water for its purported health benefits. Ensure you do thorough research. On that note, you also need to know about the potential adverse effects of alkaline water. Continue reading to learn about them.
What Are The Side Effects Of Alkaline Water?
When you start drinking alkaline water, the normal side effects include headaches, fatigue, runny nose, and darker and softer stools. These can be caused by the lowering of stomach acidity, which helps kill bacteria and expels other undesirable pathogens. These side effects will subside once your body gets accustomed to alkaline water – which can take anywhere between a couple of days to 2 to 3 weeks. If you have any concerns, please consult your doctor.
Other than those, one serious side effect is excessive alkalinity. Too much of alkaline water can disrupt your body’s pH balance and lead to a condition called metabolic alkalosis – this causes confusion, nausea, vomiting, hand tremors, and tingling in the hands and feet.
Infographic: 5 Top Rated Benefits Of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has been a buzzword recently, and you might have grabbed a bottle of branded alkaline water to know more about it. But do you know how it benefits your body beyond providing longer and faster hydration? Alkaline water has a high amount of dissolved minerals which impart medicinal and curative properties to it. We have compiled the top 5 alkaline water benefits in the infographic below.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Alkaline water has a higher pH (8 or 9) than regular water. It contains many essential minerals that help treat many ailments. It may counter the acidity in your body and may aid in diabetes treatment, boost bone health, regulate blood pressure, reduce body weight, act against cancer cells, and treat acid reflux. In addition, it may help treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis and promote hair growth. You can prepare alkaline water easily at home. However, it may initially cause headaches, runny rose, and fatigue – though these usually subside once your body gets accustomed to it. But note that excess consumption of alkaline water may cause confusion, vomiting, and nausea. Hence, limit its intake to enjoy its benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see the results of drinking alkaline water?
Mary Sabat, RDN, says, “Some people can see benefits from alkaline water but how long it takes is dependent on the individual and the health goals they are trying to achieve. Generally, people report noticing positive effects such as improved energy levels, better digestion, and clearer skin within the first 1-3 weeks of drinking alkaline water. However, it may take longer to see the full effects.
Is alkaline water safe for the liver?
Sabat says, “Alkaline water is not hard on your liver, and it can be safely consumed at any time of the day. However, the effects of alkaline water on the fatty liver are not yet known.”
How much alkaline water can you drink in a day?
You can start with 3 to 4 glasses and gradually increase to 8 to 12 glasses
What is the best alkaline water to drink?
Natural works best as that is the only way you can get all the minerals. But since we don’t stay up in the mountains, the only way is to go with trusted brands. Some of them include Evian, Fiji, Real Water, and Essentia.
Is alkaline water good for the kidneys?
Animal studies have found that alkaline ionized water doesn’t affect the kidney but may help prevent and manage metabolic acidosis caused by renal failure, dialysis, or urinary diversion (17). However, further human studies are required to evaluate the safety and efficacy of alkaline water.
Is it OK to take vitamins with alkaline water?
Most supplements, including specific vitamins and minerals, are safe to take with alkaline water. Still, you should consult a health practitioner to avoid any complications.
What is Kangen water, and what are its benefits?
Kangen water is a trademarked term for alkaline water produced by the creator company Enagic. It has a pH of 8.5 to 9.5, and Kangen water benefits are similar to the reported benefits of alkaline water. The company claims that it improves hydration, energy, and focus. It is reported to neutralize acidity, cleanse the digestive tract, improve immunity, reduce cancer risk, and also support weight loss.
Key Takeaways
- The alkaline water neutralizes stomach acid and alleviates acid reflux and heartburn.
- The water has a pH of 8 or 9 which may improve blood flow.
- It improves blood glucose levels, regulates blood pressure, and may help in cancer treatment.
- Excess alkaline water can disrupt your body’s normal pH value, which can cause metabolic alkalosis.
Illustration: Benefits Of Alkaline Water And How To Prepare It At Home
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
Discover the amazing benefits of alkaline water. From improved hydration to better digestion, check out this video to be surprised by what it can do for your health.
Personal Experience: Source
StyleCraze's articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Does Alkaline Water Actually Do Anything? 💦I Tried It for Two Weeks!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPvRpr-Zerc
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
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Read full bio of Ariana Fiorita
Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian and a certified in personal training by the American Council of Exercise. She has 30 years of experience in nutrition education, wellness coaching, fitness training, holistic health, and weight loss coaching. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from the University of Delaware and master’s degree in Human Nutrition with an emphasis on Exercise Science from Rutgers University.Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian and a certified in personal training by the American Council of Exercise. She has 30 years of experience in nutrition education, wellness coaching, fitness training, holistic health, and weight loss coaching. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from the University of Delaware and master’s degree in Human Nutrition with an emphasis on Exercise Science from Rutgers University.
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