What is the pH of Mountain Valley?
Mountain Valley Spring Water has a naturally alkaline pH that typically falls within the range of 7.3 to 7.7. This places it on the alkaline side of the pH scale, where 7 is neutral. Unlike some alkaline waters where minerals are added to increase the pH, Mountain Valley's alkalinity is a completely natural process. The water's unique journey through deep, ancient rock layers is responsible for infusing it with minerals and creating its perfectly balanced pH. This natural process also gives the water a distinct, clean taste that many find preferable to artificially treated alternatives. Understanding the origin of this alkalinity provides insight into the quality and purity of Mountain Valley water.
The Journey of the Water
The slightly alkaline nature of Mountain Valley Spring Water is a direct result of its geological origin. The water begins its journey thousands of years ago as rain and snow in the Ouachita Mountains. It then slowly filters deep into the earth, passing through layers of shale, sandstone, and limestone into granite-based aquifers. Over time, as pressure builds, the water begins its ascent back to the surface. On its way up, it passes through beds of Ordovician marble and quartz, where it naturally picks up a unique blend of minerals. This millennium-long filtration process is what naturally purifies the water and enriches it with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are responsible for its balanced pH and taste. The source, protected by 2,000 acres of forest, ensures the water remains pristine and unadulterated throughout this process.
Mountain Valley pH vs. Other Bottled Water Brands
The pH of bottled water can vary significantly depending on its source and how it is treated. While Mountain Valley's alkalinity is naturally occurring, many popular brands achieve their pH level through artificial processes. This table compares the pH of Mountain Valley to other well-known bottled water brands, highlighting the diversity in sourcing and treatment methods.
| Brand | Source | pH | Type of Alkalinity/Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Valley | Natural Spring (Ouachita Mountains) | 7.3-7.7 | Natural, mineral-rich |
| Fiji | Natural Artesian Aquifer | ~7.6 | Natural |
| Evian | Natural Spring (French Alps) | ~7.5 | Natural |
| Dasani | Purified Municipal Source | ~5.6 | Added minerals (low pH) |
| Aquafina | Purified Municipal Source | ~5.5 | Treated, Reverse Osmosis |
| CORE | Purified Municipal Source | ~7.4 | Added minerals to balance |
| Essentia | Purified Municipal Source | 9.5 | Ionization, added minerals |
This comparison demonstrates that not all alkaline water is created equal. The source and treatment methods play a crucial role in the final mineral composition and potential health implications. Mountain Valley and other naturally sourced spring waters are valued for their unprocessed nature, while brands like Essentia use ionization to achieve a high pH, which some refer to as 'synthetic' alkalinity.
Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water
Proponents of alkaline water suggest it can offer several health benefits, though many require further scientific research. Here are some of the potential advantages associated with drinking water that is slightly alkaline:
- Neutralizing Acidity: Some believe that alkaline water can help neutralize acid in the bloodstream and body, though the body's pH is tightly regulated.
- Relief for Acid Reflux: A 2017 study found that alkaline water could help treat reflux by irreversibly inactivating pepsin, the enzyme responsible for reflux disease.
- Enhanced Hydration: A small 2018 study on athletes suggested that alkaline water might lead to better hydration during and after intense workouts.
- Bone Health: Some studies indicate that alkaline water, especially with added calcium, may help slow bone loss, though more research is needed.
While these potential benefits are interesting, the Mayo Clinic notes that more research is needed to definitively prove these claims. The most important aspect of hydration remains consistent and sufficient water intake, regardless of type. You can read more about the claims and facts surrounding alkaline water on the official Mayo Clinic on Alkaline Water website.
Key Minerals and Their Role
The mineral content of Mountain Valley Spring Water is a significant factor in its properties and purported benefits. The water is naturally infused with:
- Calcium: Essential for strong bones, heart function, and nerve signaling.
- Magnesium: Involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function.
- Potassium: An important electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure.
Because these minerals are absorbed by the water naturally from the earth, they are in an ionic state, which is believed by some to be more readily absorbed by the body.
Does Mountain Valley make Sparkling Water?
Yes, Mountain Valley also offers a sparkling version of its spring water. The sparkling variant is made by adding effervescence to the naturally sourced spring water. It maintains a high mineral content and a similar slightly alkaline pH, typically around 7.7. This makes it a popular choice for those who prefer bubbly water but still want the benefits of a naturally alkaline, mineral-rich product.
Conclusion
Mountain Valley Spring Water is a naturally alkaline water, with a pH ranging from 7.3 to 7.7. This alkalinity is the result of a multi-millennia geological process within the Ouachita Mountains, which infuses the water with beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. While some benefits are associated with alkaline water, the most important takeaway is the natural purity and mineral balance of Mountain Valley. Its consistent, refreshing taste and naturally high pH set it apart from many other bottled brands that rely on artificial processes to alter their water's chemistry.
