Alkaline water offers numerous health benefits. It helps neutralize acid in the bloodstream, boosts hydration, and may improve bone health by reducing bone restoration. Some studies suggest it can support better digestion, enhance immune function, and potentially slow aging by acting as an antioxidant. Additionally, alkaline water can improve skin health and promote detoxification, helping to flush out harmful toxins from the body.
What are the Health Benefits of Alkaline Water
The health benefits of alkaline water are often touted in various wellness circles. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Neutralizes Acid in the Body: Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular drinking water, which can help neutralize acid in the bloodstream, potentially reducing acid reflux symptoms.
- Enhances Hydration: Some studies suggest that alkaline water may be more hydrating than regular water, which can be beneficial for those who engage in intense physical activities.
- Supports Bone Health: By reducing bone resorption, alkaline water may help in maintaining stronger bones and preventing bone-related issues such as osteoporosis.
- Improves Digestion: Alkaline water can help balance stomach acidity, which may improve digestive health and reduce symptoms of indigestion.
- Boosts Immune Function: The alkaline nature of the water can help maintain the body's pH balance, potentially supporting a stronger immune system.
- Detoxifies the Body: Alkaline water can help flush out toxins more effectively, promoting overall detoxification and better organ function.
- Acts as an Antioxidant: Alkaline water may act as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body, which can slow down the aging process and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Improves Skin Health: Better hydration and detoxification from alkaline water can lead to healthier, more radiant skin.
Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water
So many claims have been made about the health benefits of alkaline water that you might think all those bottles on store shelves were filled at the Fountain of Youth. Though there are a few interesting studies, there isn't enough scientific evidence yet to support the claims.
Does alkaline water hydrate you better?
One of the major claims you may hear or read about alkaline water is that it keeps you better hydrated than conventional water. One small 2018 study in the journal PLoS One that involved highly trained athletes found that eight participants who drank alkaline water performed better during rigorous workouts and had better hydration afterward compared to eight others who drank regular water.
Otherwise, there’s little evidence to back the claim that alkaline is the better thirst quencher. Most experts say the type of water you choose doesn’t matter -- the important thing is to drink plenty of it.
