Many people suggest water and alkaline water when it comes to drinking enough fluids. Is it proved beyond a doubt that drinking alkaline water offers more health benefits? Initially, we should discover what the different types of water include and how they affect the human body.
What is alkaline water?
If its pH is between 8 and 9, the water is called alkaline and if it is exactly 7, it is thought to be normal (neutral). If you want to adjust the water’s pH, minerals can be used or electrolysis can be done instead. As part of what it does, the process splits water into its acidic and alkaline pieces.
Its pH goes up because alkaline water includes calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron.
What is the importance of pH level?
Using the pH scale, a substance can be marked as either acidic or alkaline. Being neutral means your score is 7.
When the value goes below 7, the water becomes acidic and once it increases past 7, it is classified as alkaline. The body system responsible for regulating pH always keeps it within the proper range.
Hydration: Which is better?
Normal water:
- Normal water is very important in every activity of the body.
- It controls body temperature, keeps digestion healthy and maintains blood circulation.
- According to studies, normal water is fully capable of hydration.
Alkaline water:
- Some research suggests that the molecules of alkaline water are small, due to which it can reach the cells faster.
- However, its difference in hydration is not much for the common person.
Effect on health: What does research say?
Normal water:
- It is cheap, safe and essential for health.
- Nerves are responsible for the functioning of digestion, blood flow and body temperature control.
- Alkaline water can also be called ionized water.
Some experts believe that it makes bones tougher and aids in easing acid reflux. - It could reduce the risk of bone loss for elderly people.
- Still, scientists do not fully agree on the reported benefits.
Body pH balance: What changes?
Normal water:
- The body regulates its pH automatically, such as by exhaling CO₂ through the lungs and filtering out acids through the kidneys.
- Normal water does not disturb this balance at all.
Alkaline water:
- Proponents believe it balances out excess acidity in the body.
- But medical science says the body’s pH control is already very strong and balanced.
Safety and potential side effects
Normal water:
- It is safe for people of all ages and conditions.
- As long as it is consumed in appropriate quantities, there is no harm.
Alkaline water:
- Too much of these foods may result in metabolic alkalosis which refers to blood that has a high pH value.
- Some symptoms are nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and mental confusion.
- Thus, people should not eat it in excessive amounts.
What do your individual needs say?
If you are perfectly healthy and just want to quench thirst or get general hydration, then normal water is sufficient.
But if you like the taste of alkaline water or you are particularly troubled by acidity, you can drink it occasionally.
Conclusion
Because it is claimed to be good for health, alkaline water has attracted attention. Yet, a number of its health benefits remain unproven by science. At the same time, tap water plays a key role in the body and has no negative impacts. People with normal health should drink waters that are normal and safe. Yet, if you seek special benefits for your health, you may consume a small amount of alkaline water. Choosing a diet that matches your health and way of living is the best way.
