Water is a vital necessity for life, and in recent years, a particular type of water known as ‘alkaline water’ has garnered significant attention. Some proponents suggest it can provide numerous health benefits, from superior hydration to better bone health. Alkaline water differentiates itself by having a higher pH than regular drinking water, and this characteristic is often claimed to help neutralize acid in the body. This article will explore the potential health benefits of alkaline water, delve into the scientific evidence supporting these claims, and address the controversies surrounding this health trend.
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Understanding pH And Alkaline Water
The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14. Standard drinking water typically has a neutral pH of 7, while alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 9. It’s crucial to comprehend this scale since the human body performs optimally at a slightly alkaline pH level. A balance in the body’s pH level is important, with significant deviations potentially leading to health issues.
Alkaline water can either be naturally alkaline or artificially ionized. Naturally, alkaline water passes over rocks and picks up minerals, increasing its alkaline level. In contrast, ionized alkaline water uses electrolysis to separate molecules in the water, producing alkaline and acidic water.
The Theory Behind Alkaline Water And Health
The acid-alkaline theory of disease is based on the idea that certain foods can affect the acidity and pH of bodily fluids, including urine or blood. Proponents of this theory suggest that high acidity levels in the body can cause chronic diseases. Since alkaline water is less acidic than your typical tap water, it is thought to neutralize acid in the body.
The kidneys play a significant role in maintaining the body’s acid-base balance by excreting hydrogen ions into the urine and reabsorbing bicarbonate from the urine. The idea is that drinking alkaline water could possibly aid these functions, thereby helping maintain or improve health.
Potential Health Benefits of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water is often credited with a variety of health benefits. Among these, improved hydration is often the most cited. Alkaline water contains mineral ions like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and bicarbonate, which could aid in better hydration as compared to regular water.
Besides, some research suggests that alkaline water may help individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. A 2016 study in the “Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine” found that participants consuming alkaline water over three to six months showed significant differences in blood viscosity (a measurement related to hydration) as compared to those drinking standard water. This suggests that alkaline water may help reduce the risks of heart disease by improving blood flow.
Alkaline Water And Detoxification
Detoxification, or removing toxins from the body, is another supposed benefit of alkaline water. Some advocates propose that the alkaline nature of this water can help the body neutralize harmful substances and thereby assist in detoxification. Alkaline water, rich in negative hydroxide ions, might also act as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
However, it’s important to note that the body has its own mechanisms for detoxification. Primarily, the liver, kidneys, and skin work continuously to remove toxins. While alkaline water could potentially support these processes, the degree to which it does so if at all, is yet to be scientifically proven.
Alkaline Water And Bone Health
The theory that alkaline water can benefit bone health is largely based on the acid-ash hypothesis. This proposes that consuming certain foods can influence the acidity of your urine and blood and, over time, may lead to conditions like osteoporosis. As alkaline water has a higher pH, it’s hypothesized that it could help balance the body’s pH, supporting bone health.
However, scientific evidence to back up this claim is inconsistent. Some studies do suggest that alkaline water might improve bone health, but others show no effect. In the end, further research is required to establish any potential benefits of alkaline water on bone health.
Ways To Include Alkaline Water In Your Diet
Incorporating alkaline water into your diet can be as simple as purchasing it from a store or online. There are also water ionizers on the market that attach to your faucet to produce alkaline water. Considering this approach, it’s essential to understand that artificially ionized water is not the same as natural alkaline water.
In terms of consumption, it’s suggested that people start slowly by drinking eight to sixteen ounces of alkaline water per day, gradually increasing your intake as your body adjusts. However, it’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before significantly changing your diet or hydration habits.
The Bottom Line
The potential health benefits of alkaline water have been a point of contention within the scientific community. While some suggest it can offer benefits from improved hydration to superior bone health, these claims often lack robust scientific support. In essence, while alkaline water is safe for most people to consume in moderation, it should not be viewed as a magic health elixir. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and consulting with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to one’s diet is always advisable. Ultimately, more research is required to understand alkaline water’s potential health benefits.
