What is Alkaline Water?

To put it simply, alkaline water is water that has a higher potential hydrogen than regular drinking water. The pH level is measured by the amount of hydrogen ions that exists in a given solution. High concentrations of hydrogen ions yield a low pH (acidic substances), whereas low levels of hydrogen ions result in a high pH (basic substances).1

What Are the Benefits of Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water contains four major minerals that contribute to its remarkable health benefits: Calcium: Important for bone health, as well as heart, muscle, and nerve function5 Magnesium: Helps turn food into energy and is necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body6 Sodium: Regulates blood pressure and volume, and supports nerve/muscle function7 Potassium: A type of electrolyte that is essential for muscle function and promotes healthy digestion8

Improve Bone Health

Some research has been done on the effects of alkaline intake on bones. A study published in the scientific journal Bone found a positive effect on bone resorption with people who consumed alkaline water rich in bicarbonate.9 Bone resorption is the process where old bone cells are broken down and replaced by new ones.1

Soothe Acid Reflux

A study published in Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology found that drinking alkaline water at pH 8.8 can help soothe acid reflux because the higher pH level kills pepsin, an enzyme involved in breaking down food proteins and a main cause for acid reflux.

Reduce High Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, and Cholesterol

In 2016, scientists in Shanghai found that three to six months after drinking alkaline water, people with high blood pressure (hypertension), high blood sugar (diabetes), and high blood lipids (cholesterol) had lower measures in each of these factors.14 Researchers found that a high-pH electrolyte water reduced blood viscosity, the thickness and stickiness of your blood, in 100 adults after exercising. This may help reduce cardiovascular strain due to dehydration.15

Enhance Hydration

A 2017 study published in Biology of Sport found that drinking alkaline water shows a positive effect on hydration status after anaerobic exercise with a significant decrease of specific urine gravity.16 Intake of alkaline water also shows a positive effect on urine pH during the anaerobic test protocol, and much more efficient lactate utilization after the high-intensity interval exercise.17 In addition to enhanced hydration, efficient lactate utilization results in increased energy, as lactate serves as an energy source in skeletal muscles.18