13 Benefits Of Alkaline Water

Alkaline water is nothing but water with a high pH – higher than that of normal drinking water. Proponents of alkaline water claim that it can prevent diseases like cancer and even slow down the aging process. But is the hype all real? And what other benefits does alkaline water have? All those questions (and more) are answered here.

What Is Alkaline Water? Is It Good For You?

Normal drinking water has a pH of 7, which is neutral. Alkaline water can have a pH of 8 or 9. And talking about its goodness, let’s take a look at some studies.

One 2012 study revealed that drinking alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 could deactivate pepsin, which is one of the culprits behind acid reflux (1). Another study found that alkaline water could benefit patients with high blood pressure or diabetes (2). Another recent study showed how alkaline water could improve blood flow (3).
Alkaline water contains calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium – all of which might offer certain benefits.

Back To TOC

What Are The Benefits Of Alkaline Water?

Since it is more alkaline than normal water, it can counter the excess acidity in our body. Alkaline water might also aid in the treatment of diabetes and cancer and boost bone health as well. Bathing in alkaline water might have beneficial effects on the skin.

1. Might Aid Diabetes Treatment

One Korean study conducted on rats states that alkaline water can reduce blood glucose levels (4). It might also treat high cholesterol, which is often associated with diabetes.
Another study states that alkaline water might improve blood viscosity in diabetes patients, which, in turn, can enhance their overall health (5).
Other sources also claim how alkaline water can help lower blood sugar levels.

2. Can Boost Bone Health

Shutterstock

Having elevated acid levels can weaken the bones over time, increasing the risk of fractures. Since alkaline water can reduce acid levels, it might help prevent this (6).
Some studies found that alkalinity, as a whole (and not alkaline water alone), could benefit bone health. The study looked at the overall diet of the population and concluded that a more alkaline diet could protect the bones (7).
Subjects who consumed alkaline water were found to experience less bone breakdown and a significant reduction in bone loss through urine. However, there is less research on alkaline water being good for arthritis or gout.

3. Might Regulate Blood Pressure

Some studies suggest that drinking alkaline water might have positive effects on blood pressure. But we need more studies to come to a conclusion. Until then, we recommend you take your doctor’s advice.

4. Can Aid Weight Loss

In one animal study, rats that consumed alkaline water were found to have lower body weights in the end. In fact, the rat with the lowest body weight was the one exposed to the highest pH value (the most alkaline) (8).
Other studies also state that alkaline water supplementation can exert positive effects on the body weight of the individual (9). One reason for this, as certain experts say, is enhanced metabolism. .

[ Read: How To Lose Weight Fast At Home ]

5. Might Aid Cancer Treatment

Some sources say that cancer cells thrive in acidic environments – and since alkaline water can neutralize acidity, it might help in cancer treatment. Some experts recommend following an alkaline diet, which includes alkaline water.
A few studies have also found that an alkaline environment can make certain chemotherapy drugs more effective and less harmful (10). Other sources say that an alkaline diet can help reduce inflammation, which is one of the major causes of cancer (11).

6. Might Treat Acid Reflux

Alkaline water might neutralize stomach acid and relieve the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. It can have a buffering effect against hydrochloric acid, the stomach acid that aids digestion, and the excess of which can cause acid reflux.
However, according to doctors, more research is needed before we begin to use alkaline water as an effective treatment for acid reflux and related ailments like GERD.

7. Can Be Good During Pregnancy

Shutterstock

Sources suggest that pregnant women consuming alkaline water can experience smooth delivery and increased lactation. There are also reduced cases of jaundice.
Another study suggests that taking alkaline water has substantial biological effects on postnatal growth (12).

8. Aids Detoxification

Though there are no studies that directly state the benefits of alkaline water in aiding detoxification, one study speaks of the importance of an alkaline environment for the same. The study states that the adjustment of tissue alkalinity can lead to more effective excretion of toxins from the body (13).

[ Read: 50 DIY Detox Water Drinks For Weight Loss And Cleansing ]

9. Might Treat Dry Eyes

Though we don’t have substantial research, some sources say that alkaline water (especially when applied to dry eyes) can help treat the condition. Though the water may not harm the eyes, there is no concrete evidence that says it would be helpful either. Hence, consult your doctor for more information.

10. Might Treat Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by severe musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. Anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking alkaline water can reduce pain and improve energy levels. It can also make the muscles feel well lubricated.
But, as we said, it’s just anecdotal research. Consult a doctor for more information.

11. Can Help Treat Ovarian Cysts

Some anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking alkaline water can dissolve the cysts and treat the condition. Another study suggests that alkaline water can improve the bodily imbalances caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and, as a result, even improve the fertility of the patients (14).

12. Might Help Treat Skin Diseases

Drinking alkaline water might aid the treatment of skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. It can also help with acne. Even bathing with the water (that might be an expensive affair, by the way) can nourish the skin and offer anti-aging benefits.
But there is very little evidence that suggests this. Using alkaline water for this purpose would cause no harm, though.

13. Might Boost Hair Growth

There is no concrete research. But just like normal water, alkaline water can boost blood circulation – which, in turn, can enhance hair health and promote growth.
These are the purported (and some researched) benefits of alkaline water. But worry not – you don’t have to always purchase it. There are simple ways you can prepare alkaline water right at home.