The pH Levels of Kangen Drinking Water
Kangen water is a registered trademark of the Japanese company Enagic, which manufactures water ionizer machines. While the term is often used generally to refer to alkaline water, specifically, Kangen water is the alkaline-rich stream produced by these devices for drinking. For human consumption, the Kangen machine dispenses water with an alkaline pH between 8.5 and 9.5. Users are often advised to start at the lower end of this range and gradually increase the pH as their bodies adjust.
The Kangen machine is, in fact, a versatile system designed to produce several different types of water, each with a distinct pH level and intended use. The drinking water is just one of these types. Other examples include Neutral Water (pH 7.0) for taking medication, Beauty Water (pH 4.0–6.0) for skincare, and Strong Kangen Water (pH 11.5) for cleaning. Understanding the specific pH levels of each type is crucial to their correct and safe application.
How a Kangen Water Ionizer Creates Varying pH Levels
The production of Kangen water is based on the principles of electrolysis. A Kangen machine works by taking regular tap water and filtering it to remove impurities like chlorine. The filtered water then passes through a chamber containing electrically charged platinum-coated titanium plates. This electrical current splits the water ($H_2O$) molecules into their constituent parts: positive hydrogen ions ($H^+$) and negative hydroxide ions ($OH^-$).
During this process, the water is separated into two streams: an alkaline stream and an acidic stream. At the cathode (negative electrode), hydroxide ions ($OH^-$) and alkaline minerals collect, making the water more alkaline and rich in molecular hydrogen ($H_2$). Conversely, at the anode (positive electrode), hydrogen ions ($H^+$) collect, resulting in acidic water. The machine is designed with separate hoses to dispense each water type, preventing them from mixing. For producing the more extreme pH levels, such as Strong Kangen (pH 11.5) and Strong Acidic (pH 2.5), an “electrolysis enhancer” containing sodium hypochlorite is used, which is a chemical not intended for consumption.
Applications of Different Kangen Water pH Levels
Different pH levels of Kangen water are promoted for distinct uses beyond just drinking.
- Kangen Drinking Water (pH 8.5–9.5): The primary use is for daily hydration and cooking. Proponents suggest that its alkaline properties can neutralize acidity in the body.
- Clean Water (pH 7.0): This is filtered but not ionized water, making it neutral. It is recommended for preparing infant formula and taking medication, as it won't interfere with absorption.
- Beauty Water (pH 4.0–6.0): This mildly acidic water is used externally as a facial toner, for hair care, and for cleaning purposes.
- Strong Kangen Water (pH 11.0–11.5): Due to its strong dissolving properties, it is used for heavy-duty cleaning, removing tough grease, and washing pesticides off fruits and vegetables.
- Strong Acidic Water (pH 2.5–2.7): With powerful antimicrobial properties, this water is used as a disinfectant for sanitizing surfaces and for hygiene purposes.
Kangen Water vs. Other Water Types: A pH Comparison
Understanding the different water options available can help consumers make informed decisions. Here is a comparison of Kangen water with two other common water types.
| Feature | Kangen Drinking Water | Tap Water | Naturally Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical pH Range | 8.5–9.5 (adjustable) | 6.5–8.5 (varies by location) | Typically 8.0 or higher |
| Production Method | Artificial electrolysis of tap water | Municipal treatment and filtration | Sourced from mineral-rich environments |
| Mineral Content | Retains some minerals but content depends on source water | Contains naturally occurring minerals and treatment chemicals | Naturally mineral-rich (calcium, magnesium) |
| pH Stability | Unstable; tends to revert to neutral over time | Generally stable; buffering capacity | Stable due to natural mineral composition |
| Potential Contaminants | May not remove all contaminants; dependent on source | Varies by municipality; subject to regulations | Generally pure, but requires testing |
| Cost | High initial investment in machine, plus maintenance | Low cost per gallon; included in municipal fees | Varies; can be more expensive than tap water |
The Scientific Controversy and Validity of Kangen's pH Claims
While advocates promote Kangen water for a range of health benefits, including enhanced hydration, antioxidant effects, and detoxification, a significant body of scientific and consumer skepticism exists. Many of the health claims are anecdotal and lack robust clinical evidence.
One of the main criticisms revolves around the body's internal pH regulation. The human body is remarkably efficient at maintaining a stable, slightly alkaline pH in the blood (7.35–7.45) through various physiological mechanisms, including respiration and kidney function. The stomach, in particular, has a naturally acidic pH (1.5–3.5) to aid digestion, and drinking alkaline water is unlikely to permanently alter the body's overall pH.
Furthermore, the multi-level marketing (MLM) structure used by Enagic for selling its expensive machines has raised ethical concerns. Critics argue that the high price tag is inflated to fund the compensation structure, rather than reflecting superior technology. There are also concerns over the use of chemical enhancers for strong pH water and the potential health hazards posed by the consumption of unapproved products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has, in the past, issued warnings to Enagic for making unsubstantiated health claims about their devices.
Conclusion: Understanding the pH of Kangen Water
In conclusion, the pH of Kangen drinking water is intentionally alkaline, typically falling within the 8.5 to 9.5 range, and is produced via an electrolysis process in an Enagic ionizer. This process also yields water with a range of other pH levels designed for non-consumptive uses, from cosmetic to cleaning. While promoted for various health benefits, many of the claims surrounding Kangen's efficacy are not supported by conclusive scientific evidence, and the high cost and business model have drawn criticism. Consumers should weigh these factors, consider the body's natural pH regulation, and consult healthcare professionals before making a significant investment. For official guidance on this topic, refer to relevant health advisories, such as the public warnings issued by regulatory bodies like the FDA.
