Understanding the World of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has garnered significant attention in the health and wellness sphere, primarily for its higher pH level compared to standard drinking water. While regular tap water typically sits around a neutral pH of 7, alkaline water usually has a pH between 8 and 9.5. The perceived benefit stems from the belief that it can neutralize acid in the body, although extensive scientific research is still ongoing.
What Makes Water Alkaline?
On a scale from 0 to 14, a pH value measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. Anything below 7 is acidic, while anything above 7 is alkaline. The alkalinity of water is determined by its mineral content, which can be acquired naturally or added artificially. Key minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium contribute to its pH and are often present in higher quantities in alkaline waters compared to tap water.
Natural vs. Ionized Alkaline Water
Not all alkaline water is created equal. The two primary methods of production result in different products with distinct characteristics.
Natural Alkaline Water:
- Sourced from natural springs where water flows over rocks, picking up minerals that naturally increase its pH.
- Examples include brands like Icelandic Glacial and Eternal.
- The naturally occurring mineral content is often a key selling point for these brands.
Ionized Alkaline Water:
- Created using a process called electrolysis, where tap water is passed through an electrical current to separate acidic and alkaline molecules.
- Electrolytes are sometimes added after purification to enhance the flavor and alkaline properties.
- Brands like Essentia are examples of ionized alkaline water.
How to Choose the Right Alkaline Water
Since there's no single best choice, selecting the right alkaline water depends on your individual priorities. Consider these factors before you buy:
- Source: Do you prefer water from a natural spring or one that is processed from a municipal source? Natural spring waters boast inherent mineral content, while processed waters may offer a more controlled pH.
- pH Level: Most proponents suggest a pH between 8 and 9.5 for optimal benefits. Consistently consuming water with a very high pH (e.g., above 9.8) could potentially cause issues like hyperkalemia in sensitive individuals.
- Filtration and Purity: Ensure the brand you choose has effective filtration to remove contaminants, especially with products derived from municipal sources. Some systems use reverse osmosis before remineralization.
- Mineral Profile: Compare the types and amounts of minerals present. Some brands enhance their water with specific electrolytes for taste and purported benefits.
- Packaging: Concerns exist about plastic bottles leaching chemicals like BPA, especially when exposed to heat. Consider brands that use eco-friendly or BPA-free alternatives like aluminum cans.
Comparison of Popular Alkaline Water Options
| Brand | Source | pH Level | Key Features & Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essentia Water | Municipal Source, ionized | 9.5+ | Proprietary ionization process, electrolytes added for taste, convenient but not naturally alkaline. |
| Icelandic Glacial | Natural Spring | 8.0+ (Tested 8.0-8.4) | Naturally sourced from Olfus Spring in Iceland, filtered through lava rock, naturally high pH, eco-friendly. |
| Fiji Water | Artesian Aquifer | 7.7 (Tested 7.6-7.8) | Naturally filtered through volcanic rock, adds minerals naturally, tested regularly, moderate alkalinity. |
| Eternal Water | Natural Spring | 7.8-8.2 | Naturally alkaline from natural spring sources, pH can vary, available in plastic. |
| Alkaline88 | Purified Water | 8.8 | Purified water with added minerals, widely available, smooth taste, but not a natural source. |
Debunking Health Claims and Considering the Risks
While some anecdotal evidence and small studies suggest benefits from alkaline water, health professionals often urge caution. The human body is remarkably efficient at regulating its own pH, primarily through the lungs and kidneys, making it unlikely that drinking slightly alkaline water will drastically alter your blood pH. Some studies suggest potential benefits for acid reflux or bone density in postmenopausal women, but these findings require more extensive research.
However, potential risks should not be overlooked. Excessive consumption can disrupt the body's natural pH balance, potentially leading to a condition called metabolic alkalosis with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and tremors. For individuals with kidney disease, the build-up of minerals can be particularly risky. A high-profile case in 2020 linked a specific brand of manufactured alkaline water to liver failure and highlighted the importance of choosing reputable, well-regulated products. For more information on the health claims and risks, consult the Mayo Clinic on Alkaline Water.
Alternatives to Bottled Alkaline Water
If you are interested in exploring alkaline water without relying on bottled brands, several at-home options are available:
- Water Ionizer Machines: These devices attach to your tap and use electrolysis to increase the water's pH and produce ionized alkaline water.
- Alkaline Water Pitchers: Similar to standard filter pitchers, these contain filters that add minerals to tap water to raise the pH.
- Alkaline pH Drops: Concentrated drops can be added to your regular drinking water to increase its alkalinity.
- DIY Natural Options: Squeezing a small amount of lemon juice into your water, despite being acidic on its own, can have an alkalizing effect on the body after digestion due to its mineral content.
Conclusion
The question of "what is the number one alkaline water to drink?" is highly subjective and depends on your specific needs and preferences. While some may favor the natural mineral content of Icelandic Glacial or Fiji, others might prefer the high, consistent pH of an ionized brand like Essentia. The key is to research the source and processing methods, choose a brand with proven purity and safety standards, and consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Ultimately, the best alkaline water for you is one that you enjoy, that is free of contaminants, and that aligns with your health goals without excessive or unproven claims.
