Alkaline water has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. You may have heard various claims that alkaline water is good for health. Some say it can help regulate your pH level, improve digestion, help maximise physical performance, aid weight loss, cleanse your body, and boost skin health and beauty.
We aim to take you through the basics of alkaline water and a better understanding of its benefits.
What is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water, also known as high-pH water or ionised water, is water that has been modified to have a higher pH level than regular tap water. This pH level is determined by certain minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium found in the water.
The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance and categorises it into 0 (very acidic), 7 (neutral), and 14 (very alkaline). Alkaline water typically has a pH level greater than 7, often around 8 to 9 or even higher.
There are different ways of getting Alkaline water. You can go for bottled water or alkaline water purifiers. For reliable alkaline water, go with water purifiers. These modern devices not only give you alkaline water but also ensure it's free from harmful bacteria and viruses.
Moreover, alkaline water purifiers deliver water with a pH level of 7 or more. However, their (water purifier) actual performance may vary depending on the input water quality, the life of the alkaline cartridge, and the RO element. Therefore, in certain scenarios, the alkaline water’s pH level can exceed 8.5 pH.
Role of Minerals in the Alkalinity of Water
Minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium play a significant role in determining the alkalinity of water.
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Calcium:
Calcium ions can increase the alkalinity of water. When calcium is present in water, it can react with bicarbonate ions (HCO3) to form calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which is an alkaline substance.
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Potassium:
While potassium is not a major contributor to alkalinity, it can be associated with other alkaline minerals and compounds in water, contributing indirectly to water alkalinity.
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Magnesium:
Similar to calcium, magnesium ions can react with bicarbonate ions to form magnesium carbonate, which also contributes to the alkalinity of water.
These minerals influence the alkalinity and can impart taste and potential health benefits to drinking water.
Benefits of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water, with a higher pH level than regular tap water, has gained attention for its potential benefits, although more research is needed to confirm these claims. Some suggested alkaline water benefits include:
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Hydration:
Alkaline water is believed to be more effective in hydrating the body due to its enhanced pH. It has been discovered that drinking alkaline water after intense exercise can be good for your body.1 Moreover, regularly drinking alkaline water can be a smart choice for your health as it helps balance the acidity in your body, keeps you hydrated, and gives you more energy.1
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Antioxidant Properties:
Some experts suggest that alkaline water may possess antioxidant properties capable of counteracting harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants are compounds that can neutralise free radicals, which are unstable molecules linked to various health issues, including ageing and chronic diseases.
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Digestive Health:
It's believed that alkaline water can neutralise stomach acid and help with acid reflux and indigestion.
Alkaline water typically has a higher pH level than regular drinking water. Some experts suggest that consuming alkaline water can help neutralise excess stomach acid, which is associated with conditions like acid reflux.
One study suggested the potential benefits of alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 in reducing acid reflux symptoms.2
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Bone Health:
Alkaline water is believed to support bone health by providing essential minerals, including calcium.
Alkaline water can naturally contain higher calcium levels than regular drinking water. Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Consuming water rich in calcium contributes to the daily intake of this essential nutrient.
Several studies have explored the potential benefits of alkaline water on bone health. Some research suggests that alkaline mineral water may have a positive impact on bone density and bone resorption rates.3
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Improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels:
Excessive acidity may be linked to various health issues, including high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels. Alkaline water's higher pH is believed to counteract body acidity, potentially benefiting health.
A 2016 research in Shanghai found that after consuming alkaline water for three to six months, individuals with high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol saw improvements in these markers.4
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Cardiovascular Health:
Proper hydration is essential for cardiovascular health. Alkaline water, by balancing pH levels, might ease the strain on the cardiovascular system, possibly aiding blood pressure regulation.
Research shows that high-pH electrolyte water reduced blood viscosity in 100 adults post-exercise, potentially reducing cardiovascular strain due to dehydration.5
Alkaline water is not a treatment or solution for the issues mentioned above. Always consult with a doctor before making significant changes to your health plan.
Alkaline Water and Acidic Foods
Balancing acidic foods with alkaline water is associated with the alkaline diet, which aims to maintain the body's optimal pH level.
Acidic foods include items like meat, dairy, and grains, which can potentially increase the body's acidity when consumed in excess. In contrast, alkaline foods like fruits, vegetables, and nuts are considered to have an alkalising effect.
Alkaline water is also used to help counterbalance the acidity of certain foods. It is believed that drinking alkaline water can help neutralise excess acid in the body, promoting better pH balance.
Also Read: Why Should You Opt for an Alkaline Water Purifier?
Get Alkaline Water with Aquaguard
Aquaguard offers a range of water purifiers with alkaline technology to provide you with alkaline water. The water purifiers come with an alkaline cartridge that instantly increases the pH and makes water alkaline. This cartridge also contains activated carbon which makes water safer, healthier, and tastier by removing contaminants like VOCs.
Here are some options for water purifiers:
1. Aquaguard Glory RO+UV+MTDS+Alkaline+SS Water Purifier
This Aquaguard water purifier comes with a multi-stage purification process. The water purifier also comes with an Alkaline cartridge that instantly increases the pH level of the water and makes it Alkaline. This cartridge also contains Activated Carbon which makes the water safer, healthier, and tastier by removing contaminants. The UV E boiling delivers water that is as safe and pure as water boiled for over 20 minutes. The I-Filter removes suspended particles, the Chemi-Block eliminates unwanted chemicals, chlorine, and organic impurities, the UV E-boiling provides you with water that is as pure and healthy as boiled water, the Ultra Filtration removes harmful viruses and bacteria, and the Active Copper Booster Cartridge infuses the right amount of copper ions into your water.
2. Aquaguard Marvel NXT RO+UV+MTDS+Alkaline+SS Water Purifier
Aquaguard Marvel NXT RO+UV+MTDS+Alkaline+SS water purifier has superior Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Ultraviolet (UV) technology. The RO technology removes contaminants like lead and mercury and eliminates disease-causing viruses and bacteria. Meanwhile, the UV E-Boiling technology ensures you get water as pure as water boiled for over 20 minutes. In addition, the I-Filter, Chemi-Block, Alkaline Cartridge, and TDS Regulator ensure pure and clean drinking water that is sweet-tasting and odourless.
3. Aquaguard Ritz RO+UV+MTDS+Alkaline Water Purifier
This water purifier combines multiple purification technologies, including alkaline, to deliver clean and alkaline drinking water. With the help of RO+UV filtration and an alkaline enhancement technology, it adjusts the pH levels of your water, aiding in counteracting acidity within your body. The water purifier also comes with advanced taste adjuster that adjusts the taste of your water as per your preference.
4. Aquaguard ASTOR RO+UV+UF+MTDS with Alkaline Technology
It is a cutting-edge water purification system designed to deliver safe and healthy drinking water. Its Alkaline Technology optimises the water's pH levels, neutralising excess acidity in the body and contributing to overall well-being.
Find an alkaline water purifier that fits your needs.
Summing Up
Understanding alkaline water and the benefits of drinking alkaline water is essential for making informed choices about your health and well-being. Alkaline water, with its higher pH level, is thought to offer benefits such as improved hydration and potential support for digestive health, bone health, and cardiovascular well-being.
However, it's crucial to note that alkaline water is not a cure-all and should not replace medical advice or treatment. Ultimately, your health decisions should be based on your doctor's suggestions and your needs.
References
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Chycki, J., Zając, T., Maszczyk, A., & Kurylas, A. (2017). The effect of mineral-based alkaline water on hydration status and the metabolic response to short-term anaerobic exercise. Biology of Sport, 34(3), 255-261. https://doi.org/10.5114/biolsport.2017.66003/ Accessed on 18/03/2024
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Shah, P. S., & Shah, J. (2012). Maternal exposure to domestic violence and pregnancy and birth outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analyses. Journal of Women's Health, 21(8), 935–952. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2011.3312/ Accessed on 18/03/2024
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Lee, D., Hong, Y., & Lee, J. (2008). Dietary calcium and vitamin D2 supplementation with enhanced Lactobacillus fermentation improves osteoporosis-like symptoms and induces duodenal and renal active calcium transport gene expression in mice. The Journal of Nutrition, 138(10), 1952–1957. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/138.10.1952/ Accessed on 18/03/2024
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Jäger, R., Kerksick, C. M., Campbell, B. I., Cribb, P. J., Wells, S. D., Skwiat, T. M., ... Antonio, J. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: Protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8/ Accessed on 18/03/2024
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Cohn, J. N. (n.d.). The pressure-flow (Bernoulli) principle. Cardiovascular Physiology Concepts. https://cvphysiology.com/hemodynamics/h011/ Accessed on 18/03/2024
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