Benefit and side effect of drinking alkaline water

Water is essential for our health, and we all know the importance of staying hydrated. But have you heard about alkaline water? Alkaline water has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of drinking alkaline water.

Table of Contents

• What is alkaline water?
• How is alkaline water made?
• Benefits of drinking alkaline water
• Can neutralize acid in the body
• Can improve hydration
• May improve digestion
• May improve bone health
• May improve immune function
• Risks and disadvantages of drinking alkaline water
• May interfere with medication
• May cause skin irritation
• May cause digestive issues
  • May not be suitable for everyone
• How to make alkaline water at home
• How to choose the best alkaline water
• Conclusion
• FAQs

What is alkaline water?

Alkaline water is water with a higher pH level than regular drinking water. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 9, while regular drinking water has a pH of 7. Alkaline water is believed to neutralize acid in the body and provide various health benefits.

How is alkaline water made?

There are several ways to make alkaline water. The most common method is by adding alkaline minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, to regular drinking water. Another method is through electrolysis, which separates the acidic and alkaline components of water.

Benefits of drinking alkaline water

Can neutralize acid in the body

Alkaline water is believed to neutralize acid in the body and reduce the risk of acid-related diseases such as acid reflux and heartburn. It is also thought to help balance the body’s pH levels, which can become acidic due to poor diet, stress, and pollution.

Can improve hydration

Alkaline water may be more hydrating than regular drinking water due to its smaller molecular size and negative electrical charge. This may help increase the absorption of water into the cells and tissues, leading to better hydration and improved overall health.

May improve digestion

Alkaline water is thought to improve digestion by reducing the acidity in the stomach and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This can help alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.

May improve bone health

Alkaline water is believed to improve bone health by increasing the levels of calcium and other minerals in the body. This can help prevent osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle.

May improve immune function

Alkaline water may boost the immune system by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to various diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

Risks and disadvantages of drinking alkaline water

While alkaline water has potential health benefits, there are also some risks and disadvantages to consider.

May interfere with medication

Alkaline water may interfere with certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure and diabetes. If you are taking medication, it is important to consult with your doctor before drinking alkaline water.

May cause skin irritation

Alkaline water may cause skin irritation and dryness due to its high pH level. This can be especially problematic for people with sensitive skin.

May cause digestive issues

This is because alkaline water can reduce the acidity in the stomach, which is necessary for proper digestion. Drinking too much alkaline water may lead to stomach discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.

May not be suitable for everyone

Alkaline water may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with kidney disease or high blood pressure. This is because alkaline water contains minerals that can affect the electrolyte balance in the body, which is essential for proper kidney and heart function.

How to make alkaline water at home

If you want to try drinking alkaline water, you can easily make it at home. One way is to add a few drops of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to a glass of water. Another method is to add baking soda or Himalayan salt to your drinking water.

How to choose the best alkaline water

If you decide to buy alkaline water, there are a few things to consider. Look for water that has a pH between 8 and 9, as this is the optimal range for alkaline water. Also, check the mineral content of the water to ensure that it contains beneficial minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

Conclusion

Drinking alkaline water has potential health benefits, including neutralizing acid in the body, improving hydration, digestion, bone health, and immune function. However, there are also risks and disadvantages to consider, such as interference with medication, skin irritation, digestive issues, and unsuitability for certain individuals. If you want to try drinking alkaline water, make it at home or choose water with a pH of 8-9 and beneficial mineral content.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to drink alkaline water every day?

• Drinking alkaline water every day may have potential health benefits, but it is important to drink it in moderation and consult with your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions.

2. Can alkaline water cure diseases?

• Alkaline water is not a cure for any diseases, but it may help reduce the risk of certain conditions by neutralizing acid in the body and improving overall health.

3. Can alkaline water be harmful?

• While alkaline water has potential health benefits, it can also be harmful if consumed in excess or if you have certain health conditions such as kidney disease or high blood pressure.

4. How do I know if my drinking water is alkaline?

• You can test the pH level of your drinking water using a pH test kit or a digital pH meter. Alkaline water typically has a pH of 8-9.

5. Is alkaline water better than regular drinking water?

• Alkaline water has potential health benefits that regular drinking water may not provide, such as neutralizing acid in the body and improving hydration. However, it is important to drink water in general to stay hydrated and healthy.

6. Can I drink alkaline water while pregnant or breastfeeding?

• It is important to consult with your doctor before drinking alkaline water while pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may have an impact on the body’s electrolyte balance and potentially affect the health of the baby.

7. Can alkaline water help with weight loss?

• There is no scientific evidence to suggest that drinking alkaline water alone can lead to weight loss. However, incorporating alkaline water into a healthy diet and lifestyle may contribute to overall health and well-being.

8. Can alkaline water improve skin health?

• Alkaline water may have benefits for skin health, such as reducing skin inflammation and improving hydration. However, more research is needed to determine the full extent of these benefits.

9. How much alkaline water should I drink?

• It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, regardless of whether it is alkaline or regular drinking water. Drinking too much alkaline water may lead to negative health effects, so it is important to drink it in moderation.

10. Can alkaline water affect the taste of food?

• Alkaline water may affect the taste of certain foods, as it has a different pH level than regular drinking water. However, this may not necessarily be a negative effect and may be a matter of personal preference.

In conclusion, there are both advantages and disadvantages to drinking alkaline water. While it may have some potential health benefits, such as improving hydration and reducing acid reflux, there is also a lack of scientific evidence to support many of the claims made about it. Additionally, drinking too much alkaline water can have negative effects on the body’s natural pH balance and electrolyte levels. As with any health-related decision, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or water intake.

FAQs:

1. Is alkaline water better than regular water?

• While alkaline water may have some potential health benefits, there is no clear evidence to suggest that it is inherently better than regular water. Drinking plenty of water in general is important for overall health.

2. Does drinking alkaline water help with acid reflux?

• Some people claim that drinking alkaline water can help with acid reflux, but there is limited scientific evidence to support this. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

3. Can alkaline water cure diseases?

• There is no evidence to suggest that alkaline water can cure diseases. It is important to rely on established medical treatments for any health conditions.

4. Is it safe to drink alkaline water every day?

• Drinking moderate amounts of alkaline water is generally considered safe for most people. However, drinking excessive amounts can have negative effects on the body’s natural pH balance and electrolyte levels.

5. How can I make my own alkaline water?

• There are various methods for making your own alkaline water, such as adding baking soda or lemon juice to regular water. However, it is important to note that homemade alkaline water may not have the same pH level and potential health benefits as commercially-produced alkaline water.