The dangers of extremely high alkaline water
While mildly alkaline water (typically up to pH 8.5) is generally considered safe, consuming water with a very high pH like 11.5 is a different matter. This level of alkalinity is far beyond what the body is accustomed to processing and can trigger several adverse health effects. The human body is remarkably good at maintaining a stable internal pH, but forcing an extreme change can overwhelm its natural regulatory systems.
Disruption of natural stomach acidity
One of the most immediate and significant risks of drinking highly alkaline water is its effect on your stomach acid.
- Crucial for digestion: The stomach needs a highly acidic environment (pH 1.5 to 3.5) to properly digest food and absorb nutrients like calcium and iron.
- Impairs bacterial defense: A highly acidic stomach also serves as a critical first line of defense against foodborne bacteria and other pathogens. By raising the stomach's pH, extremely alkaline water can compromise this protective barrier, potentially increasing your risk of infection.
- Affects medication absorption: Many medications rely on the stomach's acidic environment to be absorbed correctly. Altering the stomach pH could interfere with the effectiveness of these drugs.
Risk of metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis is a rare but serious condition that can occur when the body's pH level becomes too alkaline.
- Nausea and confusion: This condition can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, confusion, and dizziness.
- Neuromuscular issues: It can also cause muscle twitching, hand tremors, and a tingling or numbing sensation in the extremities and face.
- Potassium and sodium levels: Metabolic alkalosis is often associated with a drop in potassium and sodium levels in the blood, disrupting critical body functions.
Impact on kidneys and mineral balance
The kidneys play a vital role in regulating the body's pH balance.
- Kidney strain: Forcing the kidneys to continuously neutralize the high alkaline load from water puts extra strain on these organs, potentially impairing their function over time.
- Mineral imbalance: Excessive consumption can also disrupt the balance of essential minerals and electrolytes. For example, it might cause high levels of calcium (hypercalcemia), which can lead to kidney problems.
- Reduced nutrient absorption: A prolonged state of high alkalinity can interfere with the body's ability to absorb essential minerals like iron, zinc, and other nutrients.
Potential cardiovascular issues
Animal studies have indicated potential risks to the cardiovascular system from consuming extremely alkaline water. Some tests have shown that consuming highly alkaline water can lead to changes in certain enzymes within the cardiovascular system, which poses a risk to heart health.
Comparison: High vs. Mildly Alkaline Water
| Feature | 11.5 pH Alkaline Water (Extremely High) | Mildly Alkaline Water (pH 8-9.5) |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach pH | Substantially disrupts and neutralizes stomach acid. | May cause a temporary and negligible change in stomach pH. |
| Alkalosis Risk | Significant risk, especially with long-term consumption. | Rare risk, minimal chance with moderate consumption. |
| Nutrient Absorption | Can severely inhibit the absorption of proteins, calcium, and iron. | Minimal to no interference with nutrient absorption. |
| Gastrointestinal Effects | May cause irritation, nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues. | Generally well-tolerated, with some potential for bloating or belching with overconsumption. |
| Kidney Strain | Places significant extra stress on the kidneys. | Does not pose a significant risk to healthy kidneys. |
| Overall Safety | Generally considered unsafe for regular consumption. | Considered safe for most people in moderation. |
Potential for toxic metal leaching
It's important to note that the World Health Organization has observed that highly alkaline water can have a corrosive effect on water pipes, potentially causing the leaching of heavy metals into the water supply. While this is a concern for municipal water systems, it is a point of consideration when evaluating the safety of any highly processed water product. Learn more about water safety from the WHO here.
Conclusion
While marketing for highly alkaline water often promotes unsubstantiated health benefits, the potential side effects of 11.5 pH alkaline water are concerning and more scientifically substantiated. The body's intricate system for maintaining its pH is delicate, and forcing an extreme shift with very high-pH water can lead to immediate digestive problems and long-term systemic issues like metabolic alkalosis, mineral imbalances, and kidney strain. For the average healthy individual, there is no compelling reason to choose extremely alkaline water over normal, clean filtered water, which the body is best equipped to handle. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially those related to the kidneys, should be particularly cautious and consult a healthcare provider before attempting to consume water with such a high pH.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 11.5 pH water safe to drink for anyone?
No, drinking water with a pH of 11.5 is not recommended for human consumption. The World Health Organization warns that exposure to extreme pH values, especially above 11, can cause irritation and gastrointestinal issues.
Can drinking highly alkaline water cause kidney problems?
Yes, consuming excessive amounts of highly alkaline water can put a strain on the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for regulating the body's pH, and constantly processing a high alkaline load can impair their function.
What are the symptoms of metabolic alkalosis from alkaline water?
Symptoms of metabolic alkalosis can include nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching, hand tremors, and confusion. This condition results from the body's pH becoming too alkaline.
How does high pH water affect stomach acid?
High pH water can neutralize the stomach's natural acidity. This can impair digestion, reduce the body's defense against bacteria, and hinder the absorption of certain nutrients.
Does alkaline water interfere with medications?
Yes, drinking highly alkaline water can potentially interfere with the absorption of medications that require an acidic stomach environment to work effectively.
Is all alkaline water harmful?
No, mildly alkaline water (pH 8–9.5) is generally safe for most people to consume in moderation. The risks are primarily associated with extremely high pH levels, such as 11.5.
How does the body naturally regulate pH?
The body has sophisticated systems, including the kidneys and lungs, to maintain a stable blood pH level (around 7.4). This makes external attempts to drastically alter pH with things like high alkaline water ineffective and potentially harmful.
Can alkaline water weaken bones?
Excessive consumption of alkaline water can lead to metabolic alkalosis, which is known to decrease the body's usable calcium. This, in turn, can potentially weaken bones and affect the body's ability to repair the skeletal system.
Why do some brands sell water with a pH of 11.5?
Some water ionizer brands produce extremely high-pH water for non-consumptive purposes, such as disinfecting surfaces or cleaning produce. Its high alkalinity is not intended for drinking and can pose significant health risks if ingested.
