Understanding the Two Types of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has a pH above 7, typically between 8 and 9.5. However, not all alkaline water is the same. The main distinction is between natural and artificially produced alkaline water.
Natural Alkaline Water: The Mineral-Rich Choice
Natural alkaline water flows over mineral-rich rocks and springs, gathering essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which naturally raise its pH level. Because this water retains its naturally occurring minerals and electrolytes, it's widely seen as the healthiest and most beneficial form of alkaline water. It offers balanced, mineral-rich hydration without chemical additives. Natural springs are the source for many high-quality, naturally alkaline bottled waters.
Artificial Alkaline Water: The Processed Alternative
Artificial alkaline water, or ionized or electrolyzed water, is made by running tap water over platinum and titanium plates to split the water molecules, increasing the pH. This process can strip the water of natural minerals, requiring artificial re-mineralization with additives such as sodium bicarbonate. Some sources warn that this process can introduce trace amounts of toxic metals from the plates and may lack the mineral balance of natural water. The potential for inconsistent mineral content and the use of chemical additives make it a less ideal option compared to its natural counterpart.
How to Choose the Healthiest Option
Choosing the healthiest alkaline water involves looking beyond the pH number. A genuinely healthy option combines a higher pH with a rich, natural mineral profile. Here are some options:
- Naturally Alkaline Spring Water: Look for bottled water sourced from volcanic rock or natural springs. Brands like Fiji and Eternal Water source their products this way, retaining natural minerals that contribute to their alkalinity.
- At-Home Filtration: Many consumers make their own alkaline water using pitcher filters or under-sink systems. These systems add alkaline minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium back into the water after filtration, giving you control over the process and reducing plastic waste.
- DIY Methods: For a simple, low-cost option, you can add a pinch of baking soda to a glass of water. While effective at raising pH, this method does not add the same balanced mineral profile as natural water.
Comparison of Alkaline Water Types
| Feature | Naturally Alkaline Spring Water | Artificially Ionized Water | DIY at Home (e.g., Baking Soda) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Protected underground mineral springs or aquifers. | Municipal tap water, processed via electrolysis. | Filtered tap water, enhanced at home. |
| pH Level | Naturally occurring, typically 8.0–9.0. | Processed to achieve a specific high pH, often 9.0+. | Varies based on additive and amount. |
| Mineral Content | Naturally rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium. | Often stripped of natural minerals and re-mineralized with additives. | Varies; baking soda adds sodium, but other minerals are absent. |
| Purity | Filtered to remove particulates but retains natural minerals. | Highly purified via processes like reverse osmosis, then re-mineralized. | Depends on the initial tap water quality. |
| Cost | Mid-to-high cost for bottled products. | High initial cost for ionizer machines or filters. | Very low cost. |
| Environmental Impact | Potential plastic waste from bottling, though some brands use recycled plastic. | Lower waste with reusable bottles, but ionizers use electricity. | The lowest environmental footprint when done with reusable containers. |
Potential Health Benefits and Considerations
While research is ongoing, proponents suggest several potential health benefits associated with alkaline water, especially the natural, mineral-rich type:
- Acid Reflux Relief: Some studies indicate that alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 can neutralize pepsin, an enzyme that causes acid reflux, potentially reducing symptoms.
- Enhanced Hydration: Research suggests that alkaline water may provide superior hydration compared to regular water, especially after strenuous exercise, by reducing blood viscosity.
- Bone Health: Certain findings suggest that alkaline water intake may slow bone loss, particularly in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
- Antioxidant Properties: Alkaline water with a negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) may act as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
It's important to note that the body has a natural pH regulation system via the kidneys, and the effect of alkaline water on overall blood pH is likely minimal for healthy individuals. Moreover, some artificially created products have been linked to health issues, as seen in a 2020 case of acute liver failure linked to a specific brand of manufactured alkaline water, which was later recalled. As with any health trend, moderation and consulting a healthcare provider are key.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
When asking, "what is the healthiest alkaline water?", the answer leans toward naturally sourced water rich in minerals. This type offers balanced hydration and beneficial minerals without artificial processes. While making alkaline water at home is a simple and inexpensive option, it is less comprehensive. For those seeking potential benefits, prioritizing brands that source from natural springs and focusing on moderation is the most sensible approach. Always listen to your body and consult a professional if you have concerns or existing health conditions. Choosing a naturally sourced, mineral-rich water is the safest and most holistic way to explore the benefits of alkalinity.
Natural Alkaline Water Brands
- Mountain Valley Spring Water: Sourced from the Ouachita Mountains, this is a naturally alkaline water with a balanced mineral profile.
- Eternal Water: Sourced from naturally protected springs, this brand boasts a moderate, natural pH.
- Fiji Water: Filtered through volcanic rock, Fiji water is a naturally alkaline artesian water.
- Icelandic Glacial: Sourced from the Olfus Spring in Iceland, this water is naturally filtered and has a high pH.
