Popular Alkaline Water Brands
When seeking alkaline bottled water, consumers will find a range of options, from those naturally sourced to those that are processed to achieve their higher pH. Here is a closer look at some of the most popular brands and their characteristics.
Essentia
Essentia is perhaps one of the most widely recognized brands of alkaline water. It uses a three-step proprietary process to achieve its high pH of 9.5 or higher. First, the water is purified using microfiltration and reverse osmosis to remove impurities. Next, a blend of electrolytes is added for taste and to complement the body's natural balance. Finally, the water is ionized to remove bitter-tasting acidic ions, resulting in a smooth, clean-tasting product. Essentia's manufacturing process means its alkalinity is artificially enhanced, not naturally occurring.
Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Water
In contrast to processed brands, Waiākea is a naturally alkaline water sourced from a deep well at the base of the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii. Its pH naturally falls within a range of 7.6 to 8.2. As rain and snowmelt filter through thousands of feet of porous volcanic rock, the water naturally picks up essential minerals like magnesium, calcium, and silica, which contribute to its alkalinity and smooth taste. Waiākea is also known for its sustainability efforts, including using 100% recycled plastic for its bottles.
Flow Alkaline Spring Water
Flow offers naturally alkaline spring water with a pH of around 8.1. Sourced from artesian springs in Canada and the U.S., its alkalinity comes from naturally occurring electrolytes and minerals. A key differentiator for Flow is its commitment to eco-friendly packaging, utilizing plant-based, 100% recyclable cartons. The brand emphasizes its pure, refreshing taste derived from its natural source.
Alkaline88
Alkaline88 is a purified water brand that is enhanced with Himalayan minerals and electrolytes to reach a pH of 8.8 or higher. Like Essentia, its alkalinity is achieved through a processing method rather than a natural source. The water is purified through reverse osmosis and then enhanced with pink Himalayan rock salt for rapid hydration and a smooth taste. It is a budget-friendly and widely available option for consumers seeking a high-pH water.
Eternal Water
Eternal Water is another brand that offers naturally alkaline spring water. Its water travels through layers of ancient rock and sandstone in remote areas like the Shasta-Trinity Alps and Great Smoky Mountains, absorbing minerals that naturally increase its pH. Eternal emphasizes that nothing is added or removed during the process, and its alkalinity is a result of natural geological filtration.
Perfect Hydration
Perfect Hydration is an artificially enhanced alkaline water brand that uses a proprietary 9-stage purification and ionization process to create a pH of 9.5+. It is infused with a blend of electrolyte minerals, including potassium and magnesium, for taste. The company also prides itself on using 100% recycled plastic bottles and being sourced and produced in the USA.
Natural vs. Artificially Ionized Alkaline Water
The fundamental difference between brands lies in how their water becomes alkaline. Naturally alkaline water, like Waiākea and Eternal, gets its high pH and mineral content directly from the earth as it filters through mineral-rich rock. Artificially ionized water, such as Essentia and Perfect Hydration, starts with purified water (often from municipal sources) and uses a process called electrolysis to separate the water into acidic and alkaline components, boosting the pH. Some brands, like Alkaline88, add minerals back to purified water to achieve alkalinity. While both methods result in alkaline water, some proponents prefer the natural mineral profile found in naturally sourced options.
Comparison of Popular Alkaline Bottled Water Brands
| Brand | Source Type | pH Level (approx.) | Process | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essentia | Purified (Municipal) | 9.5+ | Ionized + Electrolytes | Proprietary 3-step process for smoothness |
| Waiākea | Natural Artesian Spring | 7.6-8.2 | Natural Volcanic Filtration | Naturally occurring minerals, eco-friendly bottles |
| Flow | Natural Artesian Spring | 8.1 | Natural Filtration | Plant-based eco-cartons |
| Alkaline88 | Purified (Municipal) | 8.8+ | Ionized + Himalayan Minerals | Smooth taste, budget-friendly |
| Eternal | Natural Artesian Spring | 7.8-8.2 | Natural Filtration | U.S. sourced from remote, protected springs |
| Perfect Hydration | Purified (Municipal) | 9.5+ | Ionized + Electrolytes | 9x purified, uses 100% recycled plastic bottles |
What to Consider When Choosing Alkaline Water
- Source: Decide if you prefer naturally sourced or artificially enhanced water. Naturally alkaline water may contain a broader spectrum of natural minerals, whereas ionized water offers consistent, high-purity H2O with added electrolytes.
- Taste: The taste of alkaline water can vary significantly based on its mineral content. Some people prefer the "slippery" or "velvety" feel of ionized water, while others prefer the taste of naturally sourced spring water.
- pH Level: Check the label for the specific pH level. Brands like Essentia and Perfect Hydration aim for 9.5+, while naturally sourced water like Waiākea and Eternal may have a slightly lower pH, though still well into the alkaline range.
- Packaging: For environmentally conscious consumers, packaging material is a key factor. Flow and Perfect Hydration offer eco-friendly options like cartons and recycled plastic, respectively.
- Cost: Alkaline bottled water is generally more expensive than regular bottled water. Consider if the price aligns with your budget and perceived benefits.
- Regulation: The FDA regulates bottled water, but processes can vary. When choosing ionized water, some researchers suggest using reverse osmosis to ensure contaminants are removed before ionization.
Potential Health Implications of Alkaline Water
While alkaline water is marketed with various health claims, scientific evidence is often limited. Some studies suggest potential benefits for certain conditions, but the overall health impact is still being researched. For example, some research indicates that it may help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux by deactivating pepsin. Other small-scale studies have suggested potential improvements in hydration status for athletes and bone density in some populations. However, the claims that alkaline water can significantly alter the body's overall blood pH are generally refuted by medical professionals, as the kidneys and lungs tightly regulate this process. Excessive consumption of artificially enhanced alkaline water, particularly at very high pH levels (above 9.8), has potential risks like mineral imbalance or alkalosis, though this is rare and more of a concern for individuals with kidney issues. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, as highlighted by resources like the Mayo Clinic, before making significant dietary changes, especially for individuals with health conditions.
Conclusion
For those seeking alkaline bottled water, there are several brands available, including Essentia, Waiākea, Flow, Alkaline88, and Eternal. The primary distinction between these brands lies in their sourcing—whether the water is naturally alkaline due to its geological origin or artificially enhanced through ionization and mineral additives. Naturally sourced options like Waiākea and Eternal offer alkalinity from geological filtration, while brands like Essentia and Alkaline88 use purification and ionization processes. Choosing the best option depends on your personal preferences regarding taste, source, environmental impact, and cost. While some anecdotal and preliminary research points to potential benefits, medical experts emphasize that the body's pH is tightly regulated and caution against believing all marketing claims. When making a choice, consider your individual needs and consult a healthcare provider, referencing authoritative sources like the Mayo Clinic..
