What Makes Water Alkaline?
Alkalinity refers to a substance's position on the pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, anything lower is acidic, and anything higher is alkaline. While regular tap water is typically around a neutral pH, alkaline water has a higher pH, usually between 8 and 9. This isn't just about the pH number; it's about the presence of alkaline minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that give the water its basic properties. The source and method of creating alkaline water greatly influence its quality and mineral composition.
Comparing Alkaline Water Sources
Not all alkaline water is created equal. The most significant differences lie in how the water's alkalinity is achieved. You can find alkaline water in three primary forms: naturally sourced, commercially bottled, and homemade.
Natural Alkaline Water
Natural alkaline water gets its higher pH as it passes over mineral-rich rocks, like springs and underground reservoirs. This process infuses the water with beneficial alkaline minerals. Brands like Icelandic Glacial and Flow Alkaline Spring Water source their products from these natural springs.
Pros:
- Contains naturally occurring, essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
- Often has a cleaner, smoother taste due to its natural mineral profile.
Cons:
- pH levels can vary slightly depending on the natural source.
- Availability can be limited depending on geographic location.
Bottled Alkaline Water
Many bottled waters achieve their alkaline state through artificial processes. This often involves electrolysis, where water is run over platinum and titanium plates to separate molecules and raise the pH. Some brands also add alkaline additives, like baking soda or calcium carbonate, to purified water. Popular brands include Essentia and Smartwater Alkaline.
Pros:
- Widely available in most grocery and convenience stores.
- Convenient for on-the-go hydration.
Cons:
- May contain fewer natural minerals compared to spring water.
- The ionization process may not provide the same antioxidant properties as fresh ionized water, as these can diminish over time.
- Excessive consumption of artificially produced alkaline water, especially with a pH above 9.8, could carry risks like hyperkalemia, particularly for those with kidney disease.
DIY Alkaline Water
Creating your own alkaline water at home is an affordable and accessible option. The most common methods involve adding basic substances to filtered water.
Simple DIY Methods:
- Baking Soda: Mix 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) into 8 ounces of filtered water. Baking soda has a pH of about 9.0 and will effectively increase the water's alkalinity. People on low-sodium diets should use this method with caution due to the high sodium content.
- Alkaline Drops: Purchase concentrated mineral drops specifically designed to raise water's pH. These are added to filtered water according to package instructions.
- Ionizing Water Filter Pitchers: These use a mineralized filter to raise the water's pH and may also remove impurities.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and easy to do.
- You control the source water and ingredients.
Cons:
- May not provide the same mineral profile as natural spring water.
- Consistent pH can be difficult to achieve without proper testing.
Comparison Table: Natural vs. Artificial vs. DIY Alkaline Water
| Feature | Natural Spring Water | Bottled Alkaline Water | DIY Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source of Alkalinity | Natural minerals (calcium, magnesium) from rocks | Electrolysis or added alkaline minerals (e.g., baking soda) | Homemade additives (baking soda, drops, filters) |
| Mineral Content | Naturally rich and diverse | Varies; can have added minerals | Varies based on additive; often less diverse |
| pH Stability | Can vary slightly by source | Generally stable over time in sealed bottles | Must be consumed fresh for best results |
| Cost | High | High | Low (depends on method) |
| Antioxidant Properties | No specific claim | Diminish rapidly after bottling | Not reliably present |
| Environmental Impact | Typically higher due to bottling and transport | Highest due to plastic waste and transport | Lowest, especially with reusable containers |
The Verdict: How to Choose
Ultimately, the best alkaline water for you depends on your priorities. For many, the expense of bottled or machine-ionized water may not be justifiable, as robust scientific evidence for superior health benefits over regular water is limited. The human body is remarkably efficient at maintaining its own pH balance.
If you are interested in a higher pH for potential acid reflux relief, some studies suggest it may be helpful, but it is not a cure-all. A simple, cost-effective DIY method might be worth exploring. For those who enjoy the taste and are not concerned about the cost or environmental impact, bottled brands are widely available. However, for most individuals, simply staying adequately hydrated with regular water is the most important health consideration. Consider filtering your tap water to remove contaminants, and you will achieve great hydration without the high price tag.
Conclusion
While alkaline water has been heavily marketed for a wide range of health benefits, the scientific community is still cautious, pointing to a lack of conclusive evidence for many claims. The choice of which water is good alkaline boils down to personal preference, budget, and environmental concerns. Natural spring waters offer inherent minerals, bottled options provide convenience, and DIY methods are budget-friendly. Remember that adequate hydration is the primary goal, and for most, regular filtered water is perfectly sufficient and healthy. Always consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying conditions like kidney disease, before significantly altering your water intake.
Visit Healthline for an in-depth review on alkaline water's benefits and risks.
