Drinking Alkaline Water: Health Benefits or Just a Hype?

Estimated Reading Time: 10 minutes

Published on: 30 Sep 2025

We all know that water is the backbone of life! But have you ever heard of alkaline water, the latest health trend?

In 2013, Beyoncé, one of the greatest pop icons of the 21st century, was spotted drinking alkaline water backstage during her tour, "Mrs. Carter Show." Not only that, Miranda Kerr, the Australian model, once mentioned in her interview, "I have alkaline water filters in my kitchen sink and shower heads."

What are the health benefits of alkaline water that are gaining so much attention among elite personalities? Moreover, what's the science behind alkaline water? Is it safe for human consumption? Let's answer all these questions in the following blog.

Everything You Need to Know About Alkaline Water

You might have read about the term' pH scale' in your high-school chemistry class. Yes, yes, the same class that ended with litmus strips and paper.

Here's a quick recap! The concentration of hydrogen ions determines the pH of water. For example, distilled water has a neutral pH of 7.0. Anything with a pH below 7 is acidic, and anything with a pH above 7 is alkaline (or basic).

What Exactly Is Alkaline Water

The term "alkaline" refers to the basic nature of compounds that score above 7 on the pH scale, typically 8-9. Alkaline water has fewer hydrogen ions than acidic water.

And, due to its different pH from regular water, alkaline water offers potential health benefits (as believed). It may alter the body's pH balance, reducing acid reflux. Although there is less evidence, alkaline water may treat liver disease and support weight loss.

Composition of Alkaline Water

Here are the composition and constituents of alkaline water, which define its higher pH and lower hydrogen concentration.

Natural Alkaline Minerals: Natural alkaline minerals, such as bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, constitute a significant percentage of alkaline water. These minerals are examples of alkaline substances that help raise the water's pH level.

Electrolytes: When prepared on a commercial scale, alkaline water may also contain electrolytes, including sodium, silica, and bicarbonate, to promote body metabolism.

Quick fact check: Sodium bicarbonate is a common additive used to increase the pH level of commercial alkaline water.

Did You Know?

Alkaline water isn't just a wellness trend; it plays a big role in industries, too. Used in food and beverage processing to preserve products, boost flavor, and clean equipment. In water treatment, it helps raise pH levels to protect pipes from corrosion. Oil refineries rely on alkaline water to remove sulfur impurities.

Is Alkaline Water Natural or Artificial

Okay! Here comes the interesting question. Is alkaline water an artificial thing, or does it already exist in nature?

Short answer: Alkaline water exists in both natural and commercial forms.

Explanation: Naturally, alkaline water occurs when a river or water flows over mineral rocks such as calcium and carbonate.

On a commercial scale, electrolysis produces alkaline water, where an ionizer alters the water's pH level to make it more acidic or alkaline.

There are also DIY methods to prepare alkaline water. A simple example? You can add lemon juice or baking soda to your regular water to make it alkaline. However, if you want it for drinking purposes, it's best to trust science-backed equipment.

Also Read: What Is the Most Common Cause of Unexplained Weight Loss?

What Makes It Different from Regular Water

Unlike regular water (pH 6.5 to 7.5), alkaline water has a high hydrogen potential. It ranges from 8 to 9 on the pH scale.

Additionally, alkaline water has a negative oxidation-reduction potential, indicating its ability to act as an antioxidant. It can donate electrons, creating a reducing environment for other substances.

Let's see how these differences contribute to the health potential of alkaline water. It is important to note that many health claims about alkaline water lack strong scientific evidence.

Is Alkaline Water Really Good for You—or Just a Trend?

Why is alkaline water good for you? Or to be more precise, is alkaline water really good for you? Let's find out the truth behind it.

Several studies have investigated the health benefits of alkaline water. However, most of these studies are based on animal models, which raises uncertainty and debate about their human applications.

Instant Hydration

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often drink alkaline hydrogen water for instant hydration. Alkaline water can be absorbed quickly, showing instant hydration compared to regular water.

It is beneficial for individuals who face fatigue due to dehydration. Quick hydration supports natural detoxification pathways, which eliminate toxins from the body.

Regulate Acid Reflux

In the US alone, about 20-30% of adults are affected by Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a medical condition caused by the backflow of acid in the esophagus, leading to heartburn and gastrointestinal irritation.

Alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 neutralizes pepsin (a digestive enzyme responsible for GERD), providing relief from acid reflux symptoms. By decreasing stomach acidity, alkaline water also supports digestive metabolism.

Also Read: 10 Signs Your Gut Health Might Be Out of Balance

Weight Loss

Globally, around 45-50% of people are actively trying to lose weight. Alkaline water may help with weight loss, but it does not directly contribute to it. It supports metabolic rate, accelerating the breakdown of fat.

Additionally, with instant hydration, alkaline water may slow down unnecessary cravings, supporting your weight loss efforts. Proper hydration also supports the immune system by helping maintain immune defenses in the body.

Bone Health

Despite the debate, drinking alkaline water may support bone health, which may be due to the presence of calcium and other minerals in the water.

These minerals are essential for maintaining bone strength and supporting healthy bones. It strengthens bone mineral density, mitigating the risk of severe diseases such as osteoporosis. Moreover, in a few trials, alkaline water has reduced inflammation and uric acid levels in Gout patients, promising a potential (maybe).

Note: Only a few studies and research highlight the health benefits of alkaline water. Therefore, incorporating alkaline water as a treatment or cure for any infection or disease remains uncertain.

Alkaline Water: Hype and Myths You Must Avoid

You may have seen glowing claims online, marketing alkaline water as a miracle drink. But not all of these are actually true. Here are a few myths that you must avoid about alkaline water.

Myth 1: Alkaline Water Increases Energy Levels

Many individuals report that drinking alkaline water can increase their energy levels. However, there is no way alkaline water gives you more energy than regular water. It may help you achieve quicker energy with instant hydration (and you feel it like an energy boost).

Myth 2: Alkaline Water is an Anti-Aging Drink

Often, celebrities endorse alkaline water as an anti-aging drink. However, alkaline water has no direct effect on aging.

The only truth is that adequate hydration, which comes from regular water as well, helps fight chronic diseases, allowing individuals to live longer.

Myth 3: Drinking Alkaline Water Results in Glowing Skin

Well, that's the lamest hype around alkaline water: it can give you glowing skin. In reality, human skin has a slightly acidic pH, which protects it against harmful bacteria and helps balance natural oil production.

There is a high chance that drinking excessive alkaline water can disrupt the skin's balance. What does this mean? It may give you skin irritation rather than nourishment.

Is Drinking Alkaline Water Safe? Are There Any Side Effects

Drinking slightly alkaline water (pH 7.0 to 8.5) daily does not show any significant adverse effects.

However, safety concerns arise when consuming too much alkaline water or excessive amounts, as this can lead to alkalosis (a condition where the body's pH levels become too high). Following your Instagram reels blindly and overdrinking alkaline water can cause:

A decrease in vital gastric acids in the stomach affects digestion. It can disrupt nutrient absorption, potentially leading to health problems.

Constant feeling of bloating or feeling tummy-full quickly.

Muscle twitching, nausea, vomiting, and hand tremors are possible symptoms of metabolic alkalosis.

Kidney stones: Due to the presence of alkalizing minerals (calcium, bicarbonate, and potassium).

Also Read: Why You Fall Sick Again and Again

Due to the limited studies and research, there is still no clear evidence to justify the severity or occurrence of these symptoms. So, better be careful.

Can I Make Alkaline Water at Home?

Making alkaline water at home is easier than you might think. Here are a few ways through which you can make alkaline water at home.

Use a water filter system equipped with an alkaline filter. These systems often remove harmful chemicals and contaminants from your drinking water while increasing its pH level, resulting in alkaline drinking water.

Add a small amount of baking soda to your tap water. Dissolve about 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water, making sure it is fully mixed before drinking.

Alkaline drops are also available and can be added to regular tap water to create alkaline water. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid over-alkalizing your water.

Bottled alkaline water is also widely available in supermarkets and online. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

See, that's how simple it is to make alkaline water at home. But do you actually need to drink it?

Should You Drink Alkaline Water?

Drinking alkaline water may be particularly beneficial for fitness enthusiasts and individuals with digestive issues (however, still in limited amounts).

Not everyone should drink alkaline water without caution. For example, individuals with kidney disease or impaired kidney function should consult a healthcare professional before adding alkaline water to their diet. Why? The presence of extra minerals and high pH levels could pose health risks.

Final Verdict: For most healthy adults, incorporating alkaline water as part of a balanced diet and hydration plan can be safe, but it should not replace medical treatment or professional advice.

Is There Any Better Alternative to Alkaline Water

Indeed yes! If you want something science-backed or really more effective than alkaline water, go for molecular hydrogen water.

Molecular hydrogen is a selective antioxidant. It neutralizes harmful free radicals and protects the body from oxidative stress.

Emerging research suggests that hydrogen-enriched water may aid in recovering from muscle fatigue and enhance athletic performance.

Moreover, unlike alkaline water, hydrogen water is safe for the kidneys. And, when it comes to skin and energy, molecular hydrogen water has more potential than alkaline water.

End Summary

Alkaline water can be a refreshing choice, but it’s no miracle cure. Balance and moderation are key. However, if you’re looking for something with a stronger scientific backing? Hydrogen water shows more promise for hydration, recovery, and antioxidant benefits.

Key Takeaways:

Alkaline water has pH 8–9, higher than regular water.

May support hydration and acid reflux relief; evidence is still limited.

Myths (anti-aging, glowing skin, energy boost) are not science-backed.

Safe in moderation for healthy adults.

Excess can cause side effects.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How can I make alkaline water at home?

You can make alkaline water at home by dissolving sodium bicarbonate or squeezing a slice of lemon into your regular water.

Q2. Is alkaline water safe for the kidneys?

If you have any kidney stones or other health issues, alkaline water may not be safe for you. But for healthy humans, alkaline water is totally safe.

Q3. What is the pH of alkaline water?

In general, alkaline water has a pH higher than 7. It ranges between 8 and 9.

Q4. Is alkaline water good in pregnancy?

There is limited scientific evidence supporting the role of alkaline water in pregnancy; therefore, it is best to consult with your medical expert.

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