The Role of Minerals in Alkaline Water
The "alkaline" in alkaline water refers to its pH level, which is above 7 on a scale of 0 to 14. This elevated pH is not an intrinsic property of water alone but is primarily a result of dissolved alkaline minerals. These minerals, which often include calcium, potassium, and magnesium, act as buffers, increasing the water's alkalinity. For water to be sold as alkaline, it must have a pH greater than 7, and minerals such as calcium and magnesium are essential for achieving this state.
Natural vs. Artificial Alkalinity
The way alkaline water obtains its mineral content is a critical distinction. It can be categorized into two main types: naturally occurring and artificially manufactured.
- Naturally Alkaline Water: Found in springs or other underground sources, this water becomes alkaline by flowing over and absorbing minerals from rocks like limestone and sandstone. This process results in a water rich in a naturally balanced mix of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, and bicarbonate. Some brands source their water directly from these springs, retaining the natural mineral profile.
- Artificially Alkaline Water: This type is created using technology and additives. Methods include electrolysis, which separates water into acidic and alkaline streams, or adding mineral compounds like magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, or magnesium sulfate to purified water. This process is often performed after stripping the water of existing minerals through reverse osmosis. As a result, the mineral balance in artificial alkaline water is manipulated rather than naturally derived.
The Health Impact of Magnesium from Water
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and protein synthesis. When present in drinking water, magnesium is highly bioavailable, meaning it is absorbed by the body approximately 30% faster and more effectively than magnesium from food. This makes alkaline water that is rich in magnesium a potentially excellent source for supplementing daily intake. Research has also linked higher magnesium levels from drinking water to improved bone health and a reduced risk of certain cardiovascular issues.
How to Get Magnesium into Your Water
For those interested in increasing their magnesium intake through water, several methods exist, catering to different preferences and budgets. These include:
- Alkaline Water Filters: Specialized pitcher or under-sink filters contain media that adds minerals like magnesium and calcium back into the water after filtration.
- Water Ionizers: These countertop devices use an electrical process to produce alkaline water. High-end models may add minerals back into the water, while simpler ones may just alter the pH.
- Mineral Drops: Concentrated mineral additives, including magnesium chloride or bicarbonate drops, can be added to regular drinking water to increase its mineral content and alkalinity.
- Using Magnesium Hydroxide: Some DIY methods involve adding a small amount of milk of magnesia to carbonated water to create magnesium bicarbonate water at home.
Comparison: Tap, Natural, and Artificial Water
| Feature | Tap Water | Natural Alkaline Water | Artificial Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Municipal water sources | Natural springs or aquifers | Processed from tap or filtered water |
| pH Level | Usually neutral (around 7) | Naturally elevated (e.g., pH 8-9) | Artificially elevated (often pH 9+) |
| Magnesium Content | Varies by location, generally lower than mineral water | Present as naturally occurring minerals | Added artificially; amount can vary |
| Processing | Treated for safety, often chlorinated | Minimal processing, focuses on purity | Uses reverse osmosis, electrolysis, or additives |
| Mineral Balance | Imbalanced or lacking | Naturally balanced composition | May lack natural mineral balance |
| Bioavailability | Depends on specific mineral composition | High bioavailability due to natural form | Bioavailability may be lower or variable |
Risks and Considerations
While drinking alkaline water containing magnesium is generally safe, there are considerations to keep in mind. Excessive consumption, particularly of artificially alkalized water with a very high pH, could potentially disrupt the stomach's natural acidity. The stomach relies on an acidic environment for proper digestion and to eliminate harmful bacteria. Overconsumption could also lead to a mineral imbalance if not monitored, especially with artificially added minerals. Furthermore, some artificially processed waters, particularly from ionizers, may not retain the natural benefits of spring water and could contain trace metals from the ionization process. Health professionals often advise that for most individuals, plain water is sufficient and that more research is needed to substantiate many of the bolder health claims surrounding alkaline water. For a balanced perspective, the Mayo Clinic provides valuable information on this topic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, alkaline water can and often does contain magnesium, but its presence and form are highly dependent on the water's source and processing. Naturally alkaline water acquires its magnesium content organically as it filters through mineral-rich rock, offering a balanced mineral profile. In contrast, artificially alkaline water has magnesium added back after initial purification, which may result in less optimal mineral balance. For those seeking magnesium through water, both natural sources and reputable filtration systems can be effective options, but it is important to be aware of the potential for mineral imbalances if consumed in excess, especially with artificially altered versions. Ultimately, understanding the source of your water is key to knowing its true mineral content.
