What Is Alkaline Water? Is It Good For You?

Normal drinking water has a pH of 7, which is neutral. Alkaline water can have a pH of 8 or 9. Speaking of its benefits, let's take a look at some research.

A 2012 study showed that drinking alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 May inactivate pepsin, one of the culprits behind acid reflux. Another study found that alkaline water can benefit people with high blood pressure or diabetes. Another recent study showed that alkaline water can improve blood flow.

Alkaline water contains calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium - all of which may offer certain benefits.

What are the benefits of alkaline water?

Since it is more alkaline than normal water, it can counteract the excess acidity in our bodies. Alkaline water may also help treat diabetes and cancer, and may also promote bone health. Bathing in alkaline water may be beneficial for the skin.

1. May aid in diabetes treatment

A Korean study in rats showed that alkaline water can lower blood sugar levels. It may also treat high cholesterol, which is often associated with diabetes.

Another study pointed out that alkaline water may improve blood viscosity in people with diabetes, which can improve their overall health.

Other sources also claim that alkaline water can help lower blood sugar levels.

2. It promotes bone health

Elevated acidity weakens bones over time and increases the risk of fracture. Since alkaline water reduces acidity, it may help prevent this phenomenon.

Some studies have found that overall alkalinity (rather than alkaline water) can benefit bone health. The study looked at the overall diet of the population and concluded that a more alkaline diet could protect bones.

It was found that subjects who drank alkaline water experienced fewer bone fractures and significantly reduced bone loss through urine. However, there has been less research on the benefits of alkaline water for arthritis or gout.

3. May regulate blood pressure

Some studies suggest that drinking alkaline water may have a positive effect on blood pressure. But we need more research before we can draw conclusions. Until then, we recommend that you take your doctor's advice.

4. It can help you lose weight

In one animal study, it was found that rats that consumed alkaline water ended up with lower body weight. In fact, the lowest weight rats were the ones exposed to the highest pH (the most alkaline).

Other studies have also pointed out that supplementing with alkaline water can have a positive effect on an individual's weight. One reason, as some experts say, is increased metabolism.

5. May aid in cancer treatment

Some sources say that cancer cells thrive in an acidic environment - and since alkaline water neutralizes acidity, it may be helpful in cancer treatment. Some experts recommend following an alkaline diet, which includes alkaline water.

Some studies have also found that alkaline environments can make certain chemotherapy drugs more effective and less harmful. Other sources say that an alkaline diet can help reduce inflammation, which is one of the main causes of cancer.

6. It can treat acid reflux

Alkaline water may neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. It can fight hydrochloric acid, help digest stomach acid, and has a cushioning effect that can cause acid reflux in excess.

However, according to doctors, more research is needed before we can start using alkaline water as an effective treatment for related conditions such as acid reflux and GERD.