Understanding the pH Scale and Bottled Water
The pH scale is a fundamental concept in chemistry that measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. It runs from 0 to 14, with a pH of 7 being perfectly neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, and anything above 7 is alkaline. While pure water ideally has a pH of 7, the mineral content in both natural springs and municipal water sources often alters this. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5 for municipal drinking water, but some bottled waters push beyond this for their unique alkaline properties.
Naturally alkaline water occurs when water flows over rocks, picking up minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that increase its pH. Artificially alkaline water, however, is created through processes like electrolysis, which uses electricity to split water molecules into acidic and alkaline components. Many brands also add minerals back into purified water to achieve a specific pH and taste. This distinction between natural and processed alkaline water is a key consideration for consumers, as the mineral composition can vary significantly.
The Top Contenders: Highest pH Bottled Water Brands
Several brands are recognized for their high pH, but two stand out as leaders in the market. TEN Alkaline Spring Water boasts a tested pH level of 10, making it one of the highest commercially available options. The water is sourced from springs in the Appalachian Valley and enriched with electrolytes. Another prominent brand is Essentia Water, which utilizes an ionization process to achieve a pH of 9.5 or higher. Essentia is purified through microfiltration and reverse osmosis before electrolytes are added back for flavor. Other brands, like Trader Joe's Alkaline Water, also feature a 9.5 pH through added electrolytes.
Other notable alkaline brands include Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water, which is naturally filtered through volcanic rock and has a pH of 7.6 to 8.2, and Icelandic Glacial, known for its pH of 8.4. The pH level in naturally sourced waters like Waiakea and Icelandic Glacial can vary slightly depending on the mineral content of the source, unlike the consistent pH of ionized brands.
Potential Benefits and Side Effects of Alkaline Water
Proponents of alkaline water often cite several potential health benefits, although many of these claims lack strong scientific backing and remain controversial among health professionals.
- Improved Hydration: Some studies suggest that alkaline water is absorbed more efficiently by the body, potentially leading to better hydration, especially for athletes.
- Acid-Base Balance: The idea that alkaline water can neutralize excess acidity in the body is a popular claim, though the body has its own robust systems (lungs and kidneys) for regulating blood pH.
- Mineral Supplementation: Naturally alkaline water contains beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to bone health and other bodily functions.
- Detoxification: It is believed that alkaline water's ability to neutralize acids and promote better hydration can aid the body's natural detoxification processes.
However, it is crucial to consider the potential side effects and risks, particularly with excessive consumption.
- Digestive Disruption: Regular consumption of high pH water could interfere with the stomach's natural acidity, which is essential for proper digestion and killing harmful bacteria.
- Mineral Imbalance: Overconsumption of alkaline water can lead to a mineral imbalance, potentially causing issues like hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood).
- Alkalosis: In rare cases, drinking excessive amounts of alkaline water can lead to alkalosis, a condition where the body's pH becomes too alkaline, causing symptoms like nausea and muscle twitching.
- Medication Interference: Alkaline water can react with certain medications, potentially creating harmful compounds.
Comparison Table: Highest pH Bottled Water Brands
| Brand | pH Level | Source | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TEN Alkaline Spring Water | 10 | Appalachian Valley Springs | Natural + Enhanced | Enriched with electrolytes, longest tested shelf life. |
| Essentia Water | 9.5 or higher | Municipal source | Ionized + Enhanced | Microfiltered, reverse osmosis, added electrolytes. |
| Trader Joe's Alkaline Water | 9.5 | Not Specified | Enhanced | Enhanced with electrolytes. |
| Icelandic Glacial Water | 8.4 | Ölfus Spring, Iceland | Natural Spring Water | Naturally alkaline from volcanic spring. |
| Waiakea Volcanic Water | 7.6 to 8.2 | Mauna Loa Volcano, Hawaii | Natural Volcanic | Naturally filtered through porous volcanic rock. |
Conclusion
While brands like TEN Alkaline Spring Water and Essentia offer some of the highest pH bottled water options, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Natural alkaline waters, such as Waiakea or Icelandic Glacial, gain their properties from filtering through mineral-rich rock, while many mass-market brands use ionization and added minerals to achieve high pH levels. While proponents point to potential benefits like improved hydration and detoxification, the scientific evidence is often limited, and excessive consumption can lead to side effects like digestive issues or mineral imbalances. For most people, consistently staying hydrated with standard filtered or neutral-pH water is a sufficient and cost-effective approach. Consulting a healthcare professional before making a significant dietary change, such as switching to high pH water, is always a wise decision.
Visit the U.S. Geological Survey for more information on the pH scale and water quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a higher pH in bottled water always better? No, a higher pH is not inherently better. While a higher pH can offer some potential benefits, the human body naturally regulates its pH, and excessively high pH water can disrupt stomach acidity and create mineral imbalances.
2. How does Essentia Water achieve a 9.5 pH? Essentia Water achieves a 9.5 pH or higher through a proprietary process involving microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ionization. Electrolytes are added for taste after the purification process.
3. Is TEN Alkaline Water naturally sourced or artificially enhanced? TEN Alkaline Water is sourced from natural springs and then enhanced with electrolytes to achieve its high pH of 10. It is marketed as being derived from spring water, not a municipal source.
4. Can drinking high pH water help with acid reflux? Some studies suggest alkaline water may temporarily help neutralize stomach acid, but doctors are skeptical of its long-term effects on chronic conditions like acid reflux. The stomach's natural acidity quickly neutralizes the water.
5. Does high pH water taste different from regular water? Yes, some people report that high pH alkaline water has a smoother taste, which can be attributed to its mineral content. However, water with a very high pH (above 9) may sometimes have a bitter or baking soda-like taste.
6. Is there a difference between naturally and artificially alkaline water? Yes, there is a difference. Naturally alkaline water acquires its minerals from the earth as it filters through rocks, while artificially alkaline water undergoes a chemical process like electrolysis and may have minerals added back in. Naturally sourced alkaline water often contains a broader range of minerals.
7. Who should avoid drinking alkaline water? Individuals with kidney disease or other impaired kidney function should consult a doctor before drinking alkaline water, as it can affect mineral balance. People on certain medications should also be cautious, as alkaline water can interfere with their effectiveness.
