Is Alkaline Water Good for Health?

Is Alkaline Water Good for Health?

You must have heard various health claims about alkaline water. It can help slow the aging process, regulate your body’s pH level, and prevent chronic diseases like cancer. Nevertheless, what exactly is it?

According to scientists, “alkaline” in this type of water refers to its pH level. A pH level is a number that measures how acidic a substance is on a scale of 0 to 14. Water with a higher pH level is considered alkaline.

For example, water with a pH of 1 would be very acidic, and with a pH of 13 would be very alkaline.

The water type has a higher pH level than regular drinking water. Consequently, some believe it can neutralize the acid in your body.  It is claimed to have a multitude of health benefits.

Alkaline water

Alkaline Water – Health benefits

Combat acid Reflux

Acid reflux disease is when the acidic content of the stomach splashes back your food pipe. If it happens for a long time, then it can cause gastroesophageal disease. There are a few studies that suggest it may help with acid reflux. A study published in the journal Annals of Otology, Laryngology, and Rhinology showed this water type as a treatment for acid reflux, and it could potentially have therapeutic benefits. But the study was done in test tubes and not on actual humans. In addition, the water at pH 8.8 level stops an enzyme that connects to reflux disease, which reduces the acidity of the stomach.

Hydrate better

It contains minerals that are also electrolytes which claims that it can help athletes hydrate better.  A study published in the journal PLoS One researched 16 athletes and found that alkaline water did have a positive effect on hydration compared with regular water. Although coconut water and other sports energy drink have better electrolytes in comparison.

Diabetes and blood pressure

The scientists in Shanghai have found that drinking alkaline water for 3 to 6 months can reduce high blood pressure and high blood sugar. The high pH electrolyte water reduces blood viscosity in adults after exercising. It also reduces cardiovascular strain due to dehydration.

Prevents cancer

Many people believe that alkaline water prevents cancer, but there is no such scientific evidence. The theory comes from research that states that acidic environments may help foster the growth of cancer cells. Alkaline water can’t change the pH levels of your blood. So even if you eat or drink something acidic or alkaline, by the time it gets to your digestive system, it will be neutralized anyway. And keep your blood in that tight range. Another study states that an alkaline diet may enhance the action of some chemotherapy drugs.

Prevents bone loss

Apart from the aforementioned benefits, it helps prevent bone loss. As we age, our bones start losing calcium. As a result, they tend to become brittle over time. Women over age 40 and men over age 60 are at the highest risk for bone loss. In other words, acid does play a vital role in bone loss. Drinking alkaline water prevents the formation of acid in your body, and the minerals protect the bones.

Alkaline Water – Side effects and risks

  • Although the water type is considered safe, too much alkaline may have an adverse impact. Above all, it may lower natural stomach acidity, which helps kill bacteria and results in the bacteria entering your bloodstream.
  • In addition, its excessive use may cause gastrointestinal issues and skin irritation.
  • An alkaline diet can be harmful as it inspires people to avoid foods that contain essential nutrients.

There is no scientific evidence to support the health benefits that this water contains.

However, if you are planning to start drinking it, start with low consumption and increase it slowly. This can reduce the harmful effects of highly alkaline water.

Sources

https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/alkaline-water-benefits-risks

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/alkaline-water/faq-20058029

https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/fitness/hype-or-happening-is-alkaline-water-good-for-health/article26767718.ece

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/313681.php

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/01/29/health/alkaline-water-benefits-explainer/index.html

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Author: Ahaana Sahay