The Science Behind pH & Alkaline Water: Does It Really Make a Difference?

Introduction

Water is essential for life, but not all water is the same. One key factor that differentiate types of water is their pH level, which measures the acid-base balance of a fluid. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is alkaline (or basic). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that drinking water fall within a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5, with an average of about 7.5.

Alkaline water has gained popularity in recent years due to its perceived health benefits. Depending on its source, the minerals that make water alkaline can vary, affecting both its pH level and taste. Many proponents claim that drinking alkaline water can improve hydration, neutralize acid in the body, and provide various health benefits.

Understanding pH & Water Chemistry

The pH Scale & Water Chemistry

The pH scale measures the acidity of alkalinity of a substance:

• 0 – Extremely acidic (battery acid)
• 5 – Acidic (black coffee)
• 7 – Neutral (pure water)
• 8+ – Alkaline (baking soda solution)

Water’s pH level can vary depending on its source and composition. Factors such as dissolved gases (like carbon dioxide), minerals, pollutant, temperature, and surrounding soil or bedrock composition all contribute to the final pH level.

What is Alkaline Water?

Definition & How it Differs from Regular Water

Alkaline water has a pH level above 7, making it less acidic than regular drinking water. It is believed to counteract excess acidity in the body, but the actual impact of this is debated.

How Water Becomes Alkaline

Naturally Alkaline water – comes from sources rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which naturally raises its pH level.

Artificially Alkaline Water – created through electrolysis or ionization, which alters the structure of the water, but does not necessarily add beneficial minerals.

Common Minerals in Alkaline Water

Calcium – supports bone health

Magnesium – helps with muscle and nerve function

Potassium – regulates body fluids and nerve signals

Iron – contributes to oxygen transport in the blood

Potential Health Benefits of Alkaline Water

While research is ongoing, some studies have explored potential health benefits:

Acid Reflux Relief

A 20-year-old test tube study found that alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 could neutralize stomach acid and relieve acid reflux symptoms. One study compared alkaline water and a Mediterranean diet to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (common acid reflux medication). The results showed that alkaline water and a plant based diet were as effective as PPIs in managing acid reflux, suggesting that dietary changes might be a better long-term solution than medication alone.

Bone Health

An acidic environment inhibits bone formation while breaking down existing bone. Since bones contain alkaline reserves to balance excess acidity, some researchers have suggested that alkaline water could help protect bone density, especially in postmenopausal women. In one study, postmenopausal participants with osteoporosis were divided into two groups:

Group 1 took daily calcium and vitamin supplements along with six cups of alkaline water

Group 2 took the same supplements, but no alkaline water

After three months, both groups showed improvements, but those who drank alkaline water had significantly greater bone density improvements in their spine.

Hydration

A study of 100 healthy adults found that alkaline water was twice as hydrating as regular water after exercise. This suggests that alkaline water may improve hydration levels for athletes or those who engage in strenuous activity

Are These Benefits Convulsive?

While these studies are intriguing, more research is needed to confirm the long-term benefits of drinking alkaline water. Current evidence does not strongly support the idea that alkaline water provides major advantages over regular, high quality drinking water

Does Alkaline Water Really Make a Difference?

Alkaline Water vs Filtered & Mineral Water

Filtered water removes contaminants and may still contain beneficial minerals

Mineral water naturally contains alkaline minerals without artificial processes

Alkaline water may provide hydration benefits, but overall impacts on health is still under investigations

Conclusion

The pH scale determines the acidity or alkalinity of water, with alkaline water having a pH above 7.

Alkaline water can be naturally occurring or artificially produced

Some studies suggest potential benefits such as improved hydration. Bone health and acid reflux, but long term evidence is lacking.

Alkaline water is not a magic solution, and most people can maintain good health by simply staying hydrated with clean, high quality water.

Looking for high quality alkaline or purified water options? Douglas Water Depot offers four different types of water available for in-store refills, home delivery, and 24 hour outdoor bottle refill station. Whether you’re looking for alkaline water or simply want the cleanest and best tasting water, visit Douglas Water Depot today!