Understanding Alkaline Water and the pH Scale
Alkaline water is defined as water with a pH level above 7. The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline). While regular tap water typically sits around a neutral pH of 7, alkaline water aims for a range of 8 to 9. The 'best' alkaline water, however, isn't solely about the highest pH number; it's about the source, mineral content, and method of production. The two main types are naturally alkaline water and artificially created alkaline water.
Naturally Alkaline Water
Natural alkaline water gains its higher pH level and mineral content by filtering through rocks and soil in its source. As it moves through natural channels, it picks up alkaline minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. This process gives it a stable, natural alkalinity that proponents argue is more bioavailable and beneficial to the body.
Some popular natural alkaline spring water brands include:
- TEN Alkaline Spring Water: Sourced from springs in the Great Appalachian Valley, TEN Water boasts a pH level of 10, rich with electrolytes.
- Eternal Water: Originating from naturally alkaline springs, this water has a pH range of 7.8-8.2, varying slightly due to its natural source.
- Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water: Filtered through the volcanic rock of the Mauna Loa volcano, this water is another naturally alkaline option.
- Evamor: Sourced from a protected artesian aquifer, evamor naturally has a high alkalinity due to ancient mineral deposits.
Artificially Alkaline Water (Ionized Water)
This type of alkaline water is created using a process called electrolysis, which passes an electric current through the water to separate it into acidic and alkaline streams. The alkaline stream is then collected for consumption. Some brands may also add mineral additives after purification via reverse osmosis to increase pH. However, critics suggest this process removes all beneficial minerals and the resulting water may not have the same health benefits as its natural counterpart.
Well-known artificially produced alkaline water brands include Essentia Water and Perfect Hydration. Essentia boasts a pH of 9.5 or higher, achieved through a proprietary three-step ionization process that adds electrolytes for taste.
Making Your Own Alkaline Water
If bottled options are not for you, there are several methods to create alkaline water at home:
- Using Baking Soda: A simple way to increase pH is by dissolving a small amount of baking soda (1/8 teaspoon) into a glass of water. Note that this adds a significant amount of sodium.
- Using pH Drops: You can purchase concentrated alkaline mineral drops that are specifically designed to increase the pH of your water. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Water Ionizer: Investing in a countertop or faucet-mounted water ionizer is the most advanced method, allowing you to produce ionized alkaline water at home consistently.
- Alkaline Water Pitcher or Filter: These use filtration media to add minerals back into the water, raising the pH. They are a more economical alternative to ionizers.
- Adding Lemon: Despite being acidic outside the body, lemons have an alkalizing effect once metabolized. Adding a squeeze of lemon to a glass of water can increase its alkalinity naturally, along with adding flavor and vitamin C.
Comparison Table: Natural vs. Artificial vs. Homemade
| Feature | Natural Alkaline Water | Artificially Alkaline Water | Homemade Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural underground springs or aquifers | Tap water purified by reverse osmosis, then ionized | Tap water, with additives like baking soda or lemon |
| Mineral Content | Rich in naturally occurring minerals (calcium, magnesium) | Mineral content often added back artificially | Depends on the method; baking soda adds sodium, lemon adds vitamin C |
| Taste | Often described as smooth and pure, varies by source | Some find it smoother, others note a distinct aftertaste | Varies significantly depending on method and additives |
| Purity | Depends on the source, but generally high if from a protected aquifer | Purified via reverse osmosis, which removes nearly all impurities | Only as pure as your tap water, unless additional filtration is used |
| Cost | Often more expensive due to sourcing and bottling | Generally expensive, especially ionizers | Most cost-effective, using readily available ingredients |
Does Alkaline Water Really Offer Health Benefits?
Proponents of alkaline water claim it can neutralize excess acid in the body, boost the immune system, and provide better hydration. While some studies suggest alkaline water might have minor benefits, such as reducing acid reflux symptoms or potentially supporting bone health, mainstream medical research, including the Mayo Clinic, notes that evidence is currently insufficient to support most of these claims. Many factors influence the body's complex pH balance, and simply drinking alkaline water may not have the dramatic effect some marketeers suggest. Consumers with kidney disease should be particularly cautious with high-pH ionized water and consult a doctor.
Conclusion: Which Option is Best for You?
The best alkaline water ultimately depends on your priorities: source, mineral content, and cost. If you value naturally occurring minerals and a consistent, geological-sourced product, brands like TEN Water (pH 10) or Eternal (pH 7.8-8.2) might be your best bet, though natural pH can vary slightly. For a consistently high pH achieved through processing, Essentia Water (pH 9.5+) is a popular choice. However, some experts caution against long-term consumption of high-pH ionized water. For the most cost-effective and accessible option, making alkaline water at home with simple ingredients or a filter pitcher is a great starting point. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your hydration routine. For a deeper scientific perspective on the claims, read the full analysis from Healthline.
