Understanding the Fundamentals of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water is characterized by a pH level greater than 7.0. The pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14, measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7.0 is neutral, while anything below is acidic and anything above is alkaline. For bottled water, alkalinity can be achieved in two primary ways: naturally or artificially through ionization. Naturally alkaline water gets its higher pH from minerals it collects as it flows through rocks and soil at its source, such as volcanic rock. Ionized alkaline water, on the other hand, is typically purified tap water that has had minerals like calcium and magnesium added back in, along with undergoing an electrolysis process.
Naturally Alkaline Bottled Water Brands
These brands source their water from specific springs or wells where the water naturally has a high mineral content, which gives it a higher pH.
- Fiji Water: Sourced from a natural artesian aquifer in the Fiji Islands, this water is filtered through volcanic rock, which gives it a natural pH of 7.7. The brand is known for its smooth taste and untouched-at-source claim.
- Icelandic Glacial: This water comes from the Olfus spring in Iceland and boasts a naturally high pH of 8.4. The unique filtration process through lava rock imparts a high mineral content and a naturally occurring high pH.
- Eternal Water: Another naturally alkaline spring water, Eternal is sourced from protected underground springs in the U.S. and has a pH range of 7.8 to 8.2.
- Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Water: This water is sourced from a deep well on the side of the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii. As it's filtered through volcanic rock, it becomes naturally enriched with minerals and has a pH of 8.2.
Ionized and Enhanced Alkaline Water Brands
These companies utilize advanced purification and enhancement processes to produce their high-pH water.
- Essentia Water: Essentia produces ionized alkaline water with a pH of 9.5 or higher. They use a proprietary process that includes microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet exposure before infusing the water with a blend of electrolytes.
- Perfect Hydration: This brand offers ultra-purified ionized alkaline water with a pH of 9.5+. They use a 9-stage filtration process and add a proprietary blend of electrolyte minerals for taste.
- TEN Spring Water: While the brand states it's sourced from springs in the Appalachian Valley, it boasts a very high pH of 10 and adds electrolytes.
- BODYARMOR SportWater: Designed for active lifestyles, this water has a pH of 9+ and is infused with electrolytes for superior hydration.
Alkaline vs. Regular Bottled Water Comparison
| Feature | Naturally Alkaline Water | Ionized Alkaline Water | Regular Purified Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural springs or artesian wells | Purified tap water | Purified tap water or spring sources |
| Alkalinity Method | Natural mineral content from filtration through rocks | Electrolysis and mineral additives | N/A (neutral or acidic pH) |
| pH Range | Varies by source, typically 7.5 to 8.5 | Often higher, typically 9.5+ | Varies, often 5.5 to 7.5 |
| Mineral Content | Naturally occurring minerals | Added electrolytes and minerals | Often low due to purification methods |
| Cost | Can be more expensive due to sourcing | Varies, can be more expensive than regular water | Generally the most affordable option |
How to Choose the Right Alkaline Water
Your choice depends on your priorities. Consider these factors:
- Sourcing: Do you prefer water from a natural, specific source like a spring, or are you comfortable with purified municipal water enhanced with minerals? Natural alkaline water advocates appreciate the untouched-at-source aspect, while those opting for ionized versions often look for a consistently high pH.
- pH Level: Brands offer a range of pH levels. If a specific, very high pH is your goal, ionized options like Essentia (9.5+) or TEN Spring Water (10.0) might be preferable. Naturally alkaline waters often have a slightly lower, but still elevated, pH.
- Mineral Content: All alkaline waters contain minerals, but their origin differs. Natural waters get minerals from their source, whereas ionized waters have them added back. Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium contribute to hydration and overall wellness.
- Taste: The mineral composition can significantly affect the taste. Some people prefer the crisp, clean taste of naturally filtered water, while others enjoy the smoother taste of ionized water.
- Environmental Impact: Consider the packaging and how far the water is shipped. Brands like Icelandic Glacial highlight their carbon neutrality, while others use eco-friendly materials like aluminum cans.
The Final Verdict
The market for alkaline bottled water offers a variety of choices, catering to different preferences and priorities. Whether you opt for a naturally alkaline brand like Icelandic Glacial or an ionized one like Essentia, you can find a high-pH water that fits your needs. The best option is a matter of personal taste, sourcing preference, and desired pH level. For more information on the health aspects of alkaline water, consult sources like the Mayo Clinic's guide to alkaline water.
Conclusion
Understanding which bottled water is alkaline water involves knowing the difference between natural springs and ionized options. Natural brands like Fiji and Icelandic Glacial get their alkalinity from the earth's minerals, while enhanced brands like Essentia and Perfect Hydration use purification and ionization processes. Evaluating factors like pH level, mineral content, and taste will help you determine the best alkaline water for you. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prefer natural mineral content or a consistently high, ionized pH level.
