What is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is water that has a higher pH level than regular tap water. The pH level of water measures how acidic or alkaline it is on a scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Alkaline water typically has a pH level of 8 or 9, while regular tap water usually has a pH level of around 7.
Alkaline water is believed by some to have health benefits due to its higher pH levels, which may help neutralize acid in the body and promote better hydration and overall health. It is often marketed as being able to balance the body's pH levels, reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and provide antioxidant properties.
Health Benefits of Alkaline Water:
✓ Hydration: Alkaline water may help to keep the body more hydrated than regular water due to its higher pH levels.
✓ Antioxidant properties: This water may have antioxidant properties that can help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
✓ Digestive health: It can help to regulate the body's pH levels, which may improve digestive health and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
✓ Detoxification: Alkaline water is thought to help remove toxins from the body and promote overall detoxification.
✓ Bone health: Some studies suggest that alkaline water may help to improve bone health by reducing the risk of osteoporosis and preserving bone mineral density.
✓ Kidney Stones: Drinking alkaline water may potentially have an impact on kidney stones. Some research suggests that alkaline water with a higher pH level can help prevent the formation of certain types of kidney stones, specifically uric acid stones. The higher pH level of alkaline water may help reduce the acidity of urine, making it less conducive to the formation of certain types of kidney stones.
Potential Complications of Alkaline Water:
While alkaline water is generally considered safe for most people to consume, there are some potential complications to be aware of:
▪ Electrolyte imbalance: Drinking too much alkaline water or any water could potentially disrupt the body's natural electrolyte balance, which can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness, and irregular heart rhythms.
▪ Digestive issues: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating, gas, or constipation when consuming alkaline water, especially if they have underlying digestive issues.
Does Alkaline Water Alkalinize the Body?
Drinking alkaline water does not directly impact the pH level of the blood. The body has its own sophisticated mechanisms for regulating blood pH levels within a narrow range to maintain optimal health. The pH of the blood is tightly controlled by the kidneys and lungs, which work together to maintain a slightly alkaline pH around 7.35 to 7.45.
While consuming alkaline water may temporarily raise the pH of the urine or stomach, it is unlikely to have a significant or lasting effect on the overall pH of the blood. The body's natural buffering systems help to maintain the blood pH within the normal range, regardless of the pH of the foods and beverages consumed.
What About Hydrogen Water?
Hydrogen water, also known as hydrogen-rich water, has been studied for its potential health benefits due to its high levels of molecular hydrogen. Some potential benefits of hydrogen water include:
· Antioxidant properties: Hydrogen water have powerful antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
· Anti-inflammatory effects: This water may help decrease inflammation in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases and conditions.
· Improved athletic performance: Some studies suggest that hydrogen water may enhance athletic performance by reducing muscle fatigue and improving recovery time.
· Brain health: This water has been researched for its potential neuroprotective effects, which may help support brain health and cognitive function.
· Skin health: There are also skin-rejuvenating properties, promoting hydration and reducing oxidative stress in the skin.
Foods That Make the Body More Acidic:
Consider reducing or removing these foods as they are known to contribute to make the body more acidic:
❖ Processed foods: Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to the acidity in the body.
❖ Dairy products: Certain dairy products, such as cheese and milk, can be acid-forming in the body.
❖ Refined grains: Refined grains like white bread, pasta, and rice can contribute to the acidity in the body due to their high sugar content.
❖ Sugary foods and beverages: Foods and drinks high in added sugars, such as soda, candy, and pastries, can increase acidity levels in the body.
❖ Alcohol: Alcohol is acidic and can lead to increased acidity in the body when consumed in large quantities.
❖ Caffeine: Caffeine found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks can be acid-forming and contribute to the acidity in the body.
❖ Artificial sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners may disrupt the body's pH balance and contribute to acidity.
❖ Processed meats: Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats are acidic and can increase acidity levels in the body.
❖ Fried foods: Fried foods are often cooked in unhealthy oils and can be acid-forming in the body.
Choosing Between Alkaline and Hydrogen Water:
Regardless of the choice studies reveal that up to 75% of adult Americans are chronically dehydrated. Both hydrogen water and alkaline water have their own potential health benefits, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and health goals.
Hydrogen water is known for its antioxidant properties and potential benefits for reducing inflammation, improving athletic performance, and supporting brain and skin health. On the other hand, alkaline water is believed to help regulate the body's pH levels, improve hydration, support digestive health, and promote bone health.
If you are looking to specifically harness the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of hydrogen water, it may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you are more interested in balancing pH levels, improving hydration, and supporting digestive health, alkaline water may be more suitable.
It is important to note that both types of water should be consumed in moderation and as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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