Understanding Alkaline Water
Alkaline water is drinking water with a pH level higher than neutral 7. Typically, this means a pH of 8 or 9, which can be achieved either naturally or through ionization. Proponents claim it can help neutralize acid in the bloodstream and offer benefits like improved hydration, but scientific evidence is limited, and it should not be considered a cure-all. The 'best' brand is a subjective choice influenced by several factors, including taste, processing, mineral content, and your personal health goals. Some brands achieve alkalinity by passing water over mineral-rich rocks, while others use a process called electrolysis to create ionized water with a higher pH.
Top Alkaline Water Brands to Consider
Essentia Water
As a leader in the premium bottled water market, Essentia is one of the most recognized alkaline brands.
- pH Level: 9.5+.
- Sourcing and Treatment: Purified tap water enhanced with a proprietary blend of electrolytes and ionized for a high pH.
- Flavor: Many users praise its clean, smooth, and crisp taste.
- Best For: Those who prefer ionized alkaline water and prioritize a specific, high pH level with added minerals.
Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water
For those who prefer naturally sourced options, Waiakea is a top contender.
- pH Level: Naturally alkaline, ranging between 7.6 and 8.2.
- Sourcing and Treatment: Sourced from a volcanic spring in Hawaii, filtered through thousands of feet of porous lava rock, which naturally infuses it with minerals.
- Flavor: Described as clean and smooth, and some prefer its taste to other popular brands.
- Best For: Consumers seeking naturally filtered water with a naturally occurring alkaline pH and a strong focus on sustainability.
Eternal Water
Eternal is another naturally alkaline option sourced from springs.
- pH Level: Varies by batch but is naturally alkaline, typically between 7.8 and 8.2.
- Sourcing and Treatment: Sourced from naturally alkaline springs in the Shasta-Trinity Alps, and packaged at the source.
- Flavor: Reviewers describe it as pristine, natural-tasting, and refreshing.
- Best For: Those who want naturally alkaline mineral water from a reliable spring source and appreciate natural purity.
TEN Spring Water
Known for its exceptionally high pH, TEN Spring Water is sourced from deep below the earth's surface.
- pH Level: 10 pH.
- Sourcing and Treatment: Sourced from natural springs in the Great Appalachian Valley, containing electrolytes and a stable pH level for at least two years.
- Flavor: Aims for a pure, great-tasting hydration experience.
- Best For: Individuals looking for the highest possible pH level in bottled water from a natural spring source.
Perfect Hydration
Perfect Hydration focuses on optimal taste and sustainability.
- pH Level: 9.5+.
- Sourcing and Treatment: Uses multi-step ultra-purification, adds a proprietary blend of electrolytes, and is ionized.
- Flavor: Praised for a clean, crisp, and smooth taste.
- Best For: Consumers who want ionized high pH water with electrolytes and prefer environmentally conscious packaging (100% recycled plastic bottles).
Comparison Table of Top Alkaline Water Brands
| Brand | pH Level | Sourcing | Notable Features | Taste Profile | Cost | Sustainability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essentia | 9.5+ (Ionized) | Purified tap water | Electrolyte infused | Clean, smooth | Medium-High | Uses plastic bottles |
| Waiakea | 7.6–8.2 (Natural) | Hawaiian Volcanic Spring | Naturally filtered, mineral-rich (silica) | Clean, smooth, refreshing | Medium-High | 100% recycled plastic bottles |
| Eternal Water | 7.8–8.2 (Natural) | Shasta-Trinity Spring | Naturally alkaline, mineral spring | Pristine, natural | Medium | Plastic bottles |
| TEN Spring Water | 10 (Natural) | Appalachian Valley Spring | Highest pH available, mineral spring | Pure, clean | Medium-High | BPA-free bottles, aluminum cans |
| Perfect Hydration | 9.5+ (Ionized) | Purified tap water | Electrolyte infused | Crisp, smooth | Medium | 100% recycled plastic bottles, aluminum cans |
Beyond the Bottle: Factors to Consider
When deciding on the best brand of alkaline water for your needs, consider more than just the pH level. The sourcing method—natural spring vs. purified and ionized—impacts the mineral content and taste. Natural spring waters like Waiakea and Eternal naturally contain minerals, while ionized waters like Essentia and Perfect Hydration have them added back.
Also, think about your wallet and the environment. Some brands are significantly more expensive than others, and the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles is a major concern. Brands like Waiakea and Perfect Hydration offer eco-friendly packaging options, while home alkaline water filters can be a more sustainable and cost-effective long-term solution.
It's also prudent to consider the health claims associated with alkaline water. While some studies suggest potential benefits for acid reflux or hydration, many claims lack robust scientific backing. Your body has a natural and effective system for regulating its pH, so dramatic changes from drinking water are unlikely. Consulting with a healthcare professional is always wise, especially if you have underlying health conditions like kidney disease.
Conclusion: Your Personal Choice
Ultimately, the best brand of alkaline water is the one that best fits your individual taste, budget, and values. If you want the highest pH available, Ten Spring Water is an excellent choice. If natural filtration and sustainability are your top concerns, Waiakea and Eternal Water offer compelling options. For consistent pH and added electrolytes in eco-friendly packaging, Essentia and Perfect Hydration are strong contenders. Regardless of your choice, staying well-hydrated is the most important factor for your overall health.
For more information on the health claims and scientific evidence regarding alkaline water, see the expert insights provided by the Mayo Clinic.
