The Powerful Benefits of Drinking Alkaline Water

Alkaline water and its health benefits is one of the newer trends to have made its way into the wellness world. Drinking Alkaline water offers many health benefits. It is said to help slow down the aging process, regulate pH levels of the body and prevent various chronic diseases. Alkaline water refers to neutralizing acid levels in the body, which normal water cannot do. This controversial health practice has been argued over its use by many health experts. I switched over to drinking alkaline water about two years ago, so let’s find out what alkaline water is all about and you can see if it’s the water for you!

What is Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water is water that has been ionized, which means the pH level of water has been increased. The pH level is a number that measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale of 0 to 14. For instance, if the level is 1, it means the substance is very acidic and if it is 13, it is very alkaline. Alkaline water has pH level of about 8 or 9 and pH level of normal tap water is 7, which is neutral. It is believed that alkaline water helps people with excess acidity as it helps neutralize the acid in the body; thanks to its alkaline nature. This process of neutralizing acids in the body helps prevent various ailments. There are ways to increase the alkaline properties of water by using special filters, faucet attachments and additives that raise the pH levels, making normal tap water go from neutral pH to Alkaline.

Does the theory of alkaline water really work?

According to one study, regular water is best for most people, as there is no scientific evidence that fully verifies the claims made by supporters of alkaline water. However, another study claimed that a significant difference in the whole blood viscosity, after consuming high pH water as compared to regular water after a strenuous workout. According to another study, drinking alkaline water may be beneficial for people who suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
 

Benefits of Alkaline water

1. Alkaline water has ultra-hydrating properties as compared to normal water. This can be a beneficial drink for people who work out on a daily basis and require more amount of water in their body. Scientifically speaking, the water molecules in alkaline water are smaller and more readily absorbed by your cells, which help your body re-hydrate quickly.
2. Alkaline water benefits also include boosting immunity. Your immune system may help neutralize the acidity in your body, which is caused by poor diet, stress and environmental toxins.
3. Alkaline water is said to have various minerals like magnesium and calcium, both of which are important for maintaining healthy bones.
4. Alkaline water has many potent antioxidants that help prevent the growth of cell damaging free radicals in the body, which can further rush up the ageing process.
5. One of the most important benefits of alkaline water is that it neutralizes the acidity in our body by lowering excessive acidic content in the stomach and gastro-intestinal tract.

Alkaline water side effects

Although alkaline water is considered safe for consumption, it may have negative side effects too. One of the side effects is that while it may be alkalizing your body, there is a chance that excessive consumption may ruin the natural acids of your stomach killing the good bacteria. Furthermore, excessive alkalinity in your body may cause problem in the gastrointestinal tract and skin.

** Alkaline water may be good for your health, however, it is recommended that you consult a doctor before switching to it.